Programme Manager - Governance in MSMEs

Overview

The Programme Manager will spearhead the conceptualization, development, and implementation of Pearl Initiative's Governance in Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Programme, focusing on fostering strong governance practices, ethical decision-making, transparency, and innovation in MSMEs within the GCC region. This role is pivotal in enhancing the programme's impact, thought leadership, and sustainability while steering business development and compliance.

Key Responsibilities

• Design and execute the governance in MSMEs programme aligned with the organisation's strategic vision.
• Continuously improve the programme's scope to address emerging MSME challenges, enhancing effectiveness and relevance.
• Collaborate with experts and partners to develop high-quality content and integrate synergies with other organisational initiatives.
• Lead strategic communication efforts, including social media and email campaigns for the programme.
• Drive business development through market analysis, stakeholder engagement, and identifying funding opportunities.
• Manage the annual market engagement calendar and work towards financial sustainability by diversifying revenue streams.
• Establish and grow communities via workshops, forums, and networking events to promote collaboration.
• Represent the organisation at sector events to build partnerships and advocate the programme's objectives.
• Lead proposal development and manage contractual negotiations to secure funding and partnerships.
• Oversee project management processes ensuring timely, quality delivery of research, executive education, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Manage teams and third-party vendors to maintain accountability, performance, and risk mitigation.
• Ensure compliance with contractual obligations, timelines, and budgetary controls to support financial resilience.
• Communicate progress, challenges, and achievements regularly with stakeholders.
• Conduct market research and stakeholder consultations to inform programme innovation and identify growth opportunities.
• Curate and facilitate a regional working group to foster dialogue and collective action.
• Monitor sector trends and position the programme strategically in the market.
• Produce high-quality bilingual thought leadership content including articles, white papers, and reports.
• Build an engaged online presence through active participation in relevant social media and industry forums.
• Develop relationships with media and influencers to extend the programme’s reach.
• Mentor and develop programme team members to promote professional growth and cross-team collaboration.
• Define and track impact metrics and KPIs through surveys and data analysis to guide programme improvements.
• Prepare comprehensive impact reports and contribute to organisational annual reports.
• Leverage technological tools for enhancing productivity, project, and impact management.
• Engage in continuous professional development through expert-led workshops relevant to programme management and content areas.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree in Business Administration or related discipline with strong analytical capabilities.
• Certifications in project management, corporate governance, impact measurement or SME operations preferred.
• Minimum 7 years’ experience in programme management within academic, research, non-profit, or network organisations.
• Prior exposure to MSMEs or entrepreneurial ventures with understanding of governance, compliance, and sustainability highly valued.
• Proven track record in business development, fundraising, and relationship management with senior stakeholders.
• Experience in research, impact assessment, and curriculum design is advantageous.
• Strong oral and written communication skills with evidence of published work.
• Fluency in English and Arabic is mandatory.

Personal Qualities

• Proactive self-starter with continuous learning mindset.
• High emotional and social intelligence.
• Strategic thinker with solution-oriented approach.
• Passionate, diligent, and detail-focused.
• Natural leader with team management capabilities.
• Collaborative, adaptable, and transparent communicator.
• Driven by meaningful impact and integrity.