Program Operations Lead – Governance Path

Role Summary: The Operational Lead (Governance Path) will be responsible for translating the program’s design and philosophy into effective field implementation across villages. The role requires a strong understanding of rural governance systems, community mobilization, and participatory development processes. The Operational Lead will guide field teams, support fellows and village champions, coordinate with Panchayats and government stakeholders, and ensure that Social Action Projects emerge through meaningful community participation and align with village governance systems such as the GPDP. The ideal candidate is someone who is deeply rooted in rural realities, comfortable working with communities, and capable of managing complex field processes while nurturing leadership among local stakeholders. Key Responsibilities: 1. Field Implementation & Program Operations Lead the operational execution of the Governance Path across 300 villages through a team of 6 associates and 25 young leaders. Ensure the effective implementation of the program’s processes, including: Village profiling and secondary research Stakeholder engagement and relationship building Participatory needs assessments using PRA tools Facilitation of Gram Sabha discussions Development and implementation of Social Action Projects Ensure Social Action Projects are aligned with village priorities and integrated into the Gram Panchayat Development Plan (GPDP). 2. Team Development Provide mentoring and operational guidance to the team and fellows. Build the capacities of fellows and champions in: Facilitation Community engagement Participatory research Stakeholder management Ensure the gradual transfer of ownership to village champions. 3. Community Mobilization & Stakeholder Engagement Enable the team to build strong relationships with: Panchayat representatives Youth groups Women’s groups Local institutions and community leaders Demonstrate excellence in facilitation that nurtures inclusive participation of women, youth, and marginalized groups in village discussions. Support the creation of collective spaces for dialogue and decision-making. 4. Program Research and Impact Track the progress of village engagement processes and Social Action Projects. Support fellows in documenting: Village insights Community needs Learning from field interventions Contribute to program reflections and improvements in operational strategy. 5. Government & Institutional Coordination Enable the team to build working relationships with relevant government stakeholders such as: Panchayats Block and district administration Line departments Facilitate linkages between community priorities and government schemes. Experience Requirements: 8–10 years of relevant experience in rural development, governance, or community-based programs. Prior experience working with Panchayati Raj Institutions or village-level governance systems is strongly preferred. Demonstrated experience in managing and leading operational teams in field-based settings. A Master’s degree in Rural Development, Public Policy, Social Work, Development Studies, or a related field is preferred. Values, Competencies and Skills: Strong understanding of rural governance systems and development ecosystems. Proven project management skills, with a high degree of process orientation and problem-solving ability. Strong community facilitation and dialogue skills, with the ability to engage meaningfully with diverse groups. Ability to build trust and sustain relationships with a wide range of stakeholders, including community members, local leaders, and institutions. Deep respect for community knowledge, along with a commitment to participatory approaches. Ability to navigate and work effectively in complex and dynamic rural environments. Demonstrated commitment to values-based leadership and social transformation. Willingness to travel extensively and spend significant time in village communities. Success Indicators: Fellows are consistently supported to perform effectively and demonstrate meaningful, sustained community engagement. Village champions emerge and evolve as confident local leaders driving change within their communities. Gram Sabha discussions become more inclusive, participatory, and reflective of community voices. Social Action Projects are co-created with communities, owned by them, and meaningfully integrated into GPDP processes. Strong, trust-based relationships are built between communities and local governance institutions, leading to improved collaboration and accountability. Remuneration ₹8-10 lakhs CTC/year (based on experience and commitment time)