Reports to

Director, CSBC

Location

Ashoka University Delhi Office, Okhla - Phase III, New Delhi

Nature of work:

One - year initial contract with possibility of extension based on performance

The Centre for Social and Behaviour Change (CSBC), Ashoka University

CSBC was founded by and is part of Ashoka University, India’s leading liberal arts university, and is supported by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Since our inception, we have been dedicated to expanding and sharing knowledge and underscoring behavioural science’s role in building public policies that directly impact society.

We seek to establish a leading Indian institution driving behavioural change measures for people and communities in need. We advance the science and practice of behaviour changes, harnessing cross-disciplinary expertise to improve outcomes in nutrition, sanitation, maternal health, family planning, and financial services through a mix of behavioural change programmes, foundational research and capability building.

Overview of the Role

The Director will lead the center’s operations and would be responsible for its growth and expansion. The Director will drive efforts to cement partnerships and secure funding, and work with Centre staff, faculty at Ashoka University and potential authors to build the profile of the Centre and popularise its research. It is an ideal profile for someone interested in working at the cross-section of partnerships (with leading foundations, academia and researchers, and corporate sector), intellectual curiosity (by identifying opportunities for CSBC and CSBC affiliated researchers) and operational excellence (responsible for day-to-day management).

Roles and Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership
  • Provide overall operational leadership and oversight to ensure efficient and effective functioning of the organisation
  • Develop and implement operational policies, procedures, and systems to optimise internal processes and enhance organizational performance
  • Oversee the organisation’s human resources function, including recruitment, onboarding, performance management, and professional development
  • Identify and manage operational risks, ensuring compliance with relevant laws, regulations, andethical standards, and to protect the organization’s reputation and resources
  • Foster a positive work environment that promotes teamwork, collaboration, and employee engagement
• Financial Management
  • Collaborate closely with the finance team to construct and manage the organisation's budget,ensuring financial sustainability and maintaining accountability
  • Continuously monitor financial performance, identifying opportunities for enhancement, and implementing effective strategies to attain financial objectives
  • Ensure compliance with financial regulations (including FCRA) and reporting requirements
• Stakeholder Management and Partnerships
  • Establish and nurture strategic partnerships with key stakeholders to bolster the organisation's mission
  • Collaborate with the executive team to devise and execute the organisation's partnership objectives
  • Continuously evaluate progress towards strategic goals and adapt the organisational plan to ensure successful partnerships and overall growth

Eligibility

Overall 10+ years of experience, with proven experience 4+ years in a leadership role, preferably as a Chief Operations Officer or a similar position.

Education Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in business administration, management, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.

Competencies

• Organisational acumen: Possess a deep understanding of organisational dynamics, strategic planning, and operational management, enabling effective decision-making and successful execution of initiatives
• Financial proficiency: Demonstrate proven expertise in financial management, budgeting, and resource allocation, ensuring sound financial practices and optimal resource utilisation
• Grant management: a thorough understanding of grant management and financial management of a donor funded project
• Leadership: Exhibit excellent leadership and management skills, inspiring and motivating teams to perform at their best and driving collective success
• Problem-solving: Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• Communication: Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and influence stakeholders
• Fluency: English and Hindi (required)