Senior Program Manager

About Rocket Learning

Rocket Learning is one of India's largest early learning non-profits, focused on transforming early childhood education at scale. Working closely with central and state governments, we reach over 6 million children across the country. Our approach combines simple, accessible technology with deep community engagement - empowering caregivers and educators to build strong early learning habits. With a diverse, high-performing team and support from leading funders, we are on a mission to reimagine early learning for every 0–6 year olds in India.

Role Overview:

The Senior Program Manager (SPM) will be a key figure in aligning Rocket Learning’s initiatives with the objectives of the Department of Women and Child Development and the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Department in Mumbai. With 70% of their time spent within these departments, the SPM will focus on policy implementation, research, and fostering seamless communication between the government and our organization. The remaining 30% of their time will be dedicated to fieldwork, where they will visit districts to monitor program launches, events, and engage with district-level stakeholders to strengthen on-ground efforts.

Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s degree in Public Administration, Social Sciences, Education, Management, or a related field. A Master’s degree in any of these areas is preferred. 
• A minimum of 4-5 years of experience in project management, public policy, or program implementation, preferably in the education or child development sectors. 
• Proven experience working with government departments or in a liaison role, particularly within the education or social sectors. Minimum of 2 years. 
• Experience in fieldwork, with a strong understanding of on-ground program implementation and stakeholder engagement. 
• Strong understanding of government operations, particularly in the education and child development sectors. 
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with government officials and other stakeholders. 
• Strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to navigate complex policy environments and enhance program effectiveness. 
• Project and program management expertise, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, meet deadlines, and adapt to changing priorities. 
• Proficiency in data analysis and reporting, with the ability to use data to inform strategic decisions.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management tools.
• Fluency in English, Marathi and Hindi (both written and spoken). 

Other Requirements: 

• Willingness to travel regularly for field visits and stakeholder meetings. 
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

Key Responsibilities:

• Stakeholder Management: Manage relationships with multiple stakeholders within the Department of Women and Child Development and the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyaan. 
• Liaise effectively with key departmental stakeholders, ensuring strong communication and collaboration. 
• Establish and maintain clear communication channels to keep stakeholders informed about project progress, changes, and ground-level challenges.
• Policy Implementation, Research, and Project Management: Conduct systematic research and strategic planning related to Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) related policies in Maharashtra. 
• Assist in budget planning and management for ECCE initiatives within the Department. 
• Oversee and manage all aspects of project implementation, ensuring tasks are completed on time and within budget.
• Continuously monitor project progress, identify bottlenecks, and make necessary adjustments to ensure successful outcomes.
• Data-Driven Decision Making and Documentation: Collect, analyze, and interpret relevant data to support informed decision-making and program adjustments. 
• Assist the Department with data entry and maintain accurate records. 
• Draft formal communications, including letters and reports, in Hindi, Marathi and English, as required. 
• Prepare and submit regular reports on project progress, challenges, and outcomes to government stakeholders. 
• Use data-driven insights to inform strategic decisions and recommend adjustments to enhance program effectiveness. 
• Program Support and Field Visits: Ensure the smooth implementation of Rocket Learning’s programs across districts in Maharashtra, with a focus on ECCE. 
• Coordinate ECCE-related work at both the district and state levels to ensure alignment and effective execution. 
• Conduct quarterly field visits to 2-3 districts to oversee new program launches, events, and engage with local stakeholders to address on-ground challenges. 

Requirements

• Critical Factors for Success
• Strong aptitude for analytical thinking and data-driven decision making 
• Strong communication skills – written and oral - along with ability to liaise with cross-functional teams 
• Ability to handle multiple projects and tasks in an entrepreneurial environment
• Taking ownership in ambiguous situations
• User empathy and appreciation for challenges and opportunities of building a product for low-income smartphone users

For more information, please check the link: Senior Program Manager

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