Program Manager (International Development), Asia-Pacific

Adam Smith International

4d•Hybrid

About The Position

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced international development Program Manager to join ASI’s dynamic Asia Pacific portfolio. Program Managers at ASI play a central role in delivering high‑impact, results‑focused development programs. You will be responsible for the day‑to‑day management of complex, multi‑stakeholder programs across sectors such as economic management, private sector development, governance, public financial management, infrastructure, agriculture and agribusiness, and human development. The role involves working across multiple countries and contexts, and will suit candidates who thrive in fast‑paced, donor‑funded environments and enjoy balancing strategic oversight with hands‑on program delivery. Regular travel within the region, including to established and emerging program locations, can be expected. The Program Manager will primarily support the delivery of programs funded by Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), alongside other short‑term strategic investments. Working closely with ASI’s corporate teams, country‑based program teams, and DFAT counterparts at overseas missions, you will provide strong program management, analytical, and operational support to ensure programs are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and to a high standard. This includes supporting planning and reporting, financial and contractual oversight, risk management, and donor engagement. This role offers exposure to a diverse portfolio, close collaboration with senior stakeholders, and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to ASI’s broader development impact in the region.

Requirements

A tertiary qualification in international development, public policy, economics, business, or a related field (post‑graduate qualifications desirable but not essential), or equivalent professional experience.
Demonstrated program management experience , with progressively increasing responsibility, within the international development sector or a government‑funded environment.
Proven experience working on DFAT‑funded programs , including a strong understanding of DFAT policies, reporting requirements, compliance obligations, and donor engagement.
Experience supporting or managing program budgets, financial forecasting, and cost control , and working closely with finance teams to ensure accurate and timely financial management.
Strong organisational and coordination skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and complex workstreams while maintaining a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
The ability to work effectively across multicultural teams and stakeholders , building credible relationships with clients, partners, and internal teams.
A sound understanding of local context, political economy, and cultural considerations in the countries where you work, particularly across the Indo‑Pacific region.
Knowledge of risk management, duty of care, security, health and safety , and safeguarding practices in international development programs.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills , including experience contributing to high‑quality reports, briefs, and donor correspondence.
A proactive, pragmatic, and solutions‑focused mindset , with the confidence to exercise judgement and respond constructively to emerging challenges.
A willingness to travel within the region and an enthusiasm for working in diverse and sometimes unfamiliar environments.
The successful applicant must have the right to live and work in Australia.

Nice To Haves

post‑graduate qualifications desirable but not essential

Responsibilities

Manage the implementation of the DFAT/other donor funded program in a specific country of project implementation, as well as smaller assignments and programs on an ad-hoc basis.
Ensure that programs managed are completed on time, within budget and to the utmost satisfaction of the client.
Ensure that all agreed outputs, including reports, presentations, and other deliverables are delivered to clients on time, meet corporate guidelines and to the quality standards expected by ASI and the client.
Maintain stringent financial oversight of projects relating to invoice payments and accurate reporting by ASI.
Manage key stakeholders and build and develop strong client relationships on programs managed.
Track and manage milestones and maintain an issues and risk register, as required.
Effectively elevate concerns.
Prepare Terms of Reference and recruit required long and short term associates and negotiate terms.
Manage administration and logistics including ASI-OS, booking hotels, flights and organising visas for contracted advisers.
Support senior managers in delivery of their projects, as required.
Support technical delivery where expertise and availability allow.
Leverage existing networks and regional knowledge to help build and maintain a strong pipeline of business development opportunities across the region.
Develop and maintain a network of high-quality advisers and strategic partners to enhance ASI’s ability to secure and deliver impactful programs.
Contribute to bid preparation by providing relevant inputs, supporting background research, and helping to identify qualified talent.