Head of Programmes

About The Mbabzi School Partnership (MSP)

The Mbabzi School Partnership is a UK-Malawi charity that changes lives through education. Our mission is to support young people who have the most potential but the least opportunity, champion girls, and inspire change in communities. We do this by investing in high quality education and delivering impactful scholarships. We are now seeking a Head of Programmes (Malawi) to provide strong leadership on the ground, oversee all programmes (scholarships, schools, nurseries and our girls programme), manage staff, build partnerships, and ensure excellent delivery of our mission.

Reports to: UK Director (Founder)

Location: Based in Mbabzi, Malawi, with regular travel to partner schools and communities

Line management: Scholarships Programme Manager and Girls Programme Co-ordinator

Contract: Full-time

Salary: Competitive local salary

Key Responsibilities1. Leadership & Management

• Provide day-to-day leadership of MSP’s operations.
• Line-manage the Scholarships Programme Manager and Girls Programme Co-ordinator
• Build a strong, motivated team culture rooted in MSP’s values.

2. Programme Oversight & Delivery

• Ensure effective implementation of all MSP programmes, including scholarships, girls’ empowerment, and school and nursery development.
• Monitor progress against objectives, budgets, and timelines.
• Identify challenges early and propose solutions.

3. Partnerships & Networking

• Represent MSP in the NGO and education industry
• Build partnerships that strengthen MSP’s impact and visibility.
• Advocate for girls’ education and equitable access to learning.

4. Reporting & Accountability

• Provide regular written and verbal updates to the UK Director.
• Contribute to donor and trustee reports by gathering impact data, stories, and photos from the ground.
• Ensure compliance with local laws, safeguarding standards, and NGO best practice.

5. Organisational Development

• Support the UK Director in strategy implementation in Malawi.
• Contribute ideas for scaling programmes sustainably.
• Ensure MSP is recognised locally as a professional, trusted partner.

Person SpecificationEssential

• At least 5 years’ experience in NGO/education programme management in Malawi.
• Strong people management and leadership skills.
• Experience building partnerships with government, NGOs, and community leaders.
• Excellent communication skills in English and Chichewa.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, and MSP’s values.

Desirable

• Experience in education, girls’ empowerment, or community development.
• Prior experience working with international partners/donors.
• Strong monitoring, evaluation, and reporting skills.
• Degree in education, development, or related field.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary in line with experience.
• Opportunity to lead and shape an ambitious education programme.
• Professional development and training opportunities.
• Being part of a growing organisation making a tangible impact.