Program Officer at MacArthur Foundation

Nigeria
March 2, 2026
Full Time
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Job Description

The MacArthur Foundation’s Nigeria Office is preparing to implement a new five-year strategy beginning in 2026, with a strong focus on the intersection of technology and society, particularly artificial intelligence and emerging technologies. The Program Officer will lead grantmaking efforts in these areas, working closely with teams in Nigeria and Chicago to shape strategy, manage grants, and strengthen partnerships across policy, research, and civil society sectors.

This role is ideal for an experienced policy professional or researcher with deep expertise in technology and society, and the ability to translate complex technical issues into actionable research and policy initiatives.

Job ID: REQ-000341
Location: Nigeria
Employment Type: Full-Time (5-year fixed term, renewable)

Key Responsibilities

  • Participate in the design, implementation, and refinement of grantmaking strategies
  • Identify prospective grantees and support proposal development aligned with strategic priorities
  • Review and evaluate grant proposals and monitor funded projects
  • Conduct due diligence, prepare grant recommendations, and respond to unsuccessful applicants
  • Manage an active portfolio of grants, review reports, and maintain accurate documentation
  • Build and sustain relationships with government agencies, civil society organizations, research institutions, and private sector stakeholders
  • Represent the Foundation at conferences, public events, and policy discussions
  • Conduct research, write internal reports, and provide intellectual leadership in the grantmaking field
  • Serve on internal committees and manage grants within the Foundation’s grants management system
  • Travel domestically and occasionally internationally as required

Requirements

  • Graduate degree with at least 8 years’ experience as a policy professional, researcher, or practitioner in technology and society, including AI and emerging technologies
  • Strong understanding of the history, trends, empirical research, and public policy dynamics related to technology and society
  • Ability to connect research, policy, and practice while engaging effectively with diverse stakeholders
  • Excellent analytical, writing, and public speaking skills
  • Experience in project management and strategic communications
  • Proven interpersonal skills, teamwork ability, and capacity to manage multiple tasks efficiently
  • High level of computer literacy and comfort with digital tools

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