Senior Technical Advisor - Secondary Education & Youth Transitions

About the Role

We are seeking a senior education expert to guide and influence transformative education initiatives and youth transition strategies across Africa. Reporting to the Senior Director of Secondary Education and Transitions (SET), you will serve as a key adviser to the SET platform and leadership, shaping strategy, advising on programming, and engaging governments and partners to enhance education systems and youth outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic advice on education policies, programs, and innovations within the SET portfolio.
• Offer expertise on African education systems, policy developments, and emerging trends.
• Support the creation and implementation of sustainable, system-level programs aimed at improving learning results and effective transitions to employment for young people.
• Build and nurture relationships with government ministries, educational bodies, development partners, and ecosystem actors.
• Drive thought leadership, policy dialogues, evidence-building, and stakeholder convenings.
• Act as a strategic partner to senior leadership while actively supporting program delivery and execution.

Who We Seek

You should be a respected education leader with deep experience in Africa’s education systems, capable of both strategic guidance and hands-on involvement. Your mindset includes visionary thinking, innovation, collaboration, and a readiness to challenge norms to drive meaningful change.

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced degree in Education, Public Policy, International Development, Social Sciences, or related fields; further postgraduate credentials are a plus.
• At least 15 years of relevant experience in education, public sector, or development contexts.
• Strong knowledge of African education policies, reforms, and stakeholders.
• Experience liaising effectively with Ministries of Education, governments, NGOs, and international development partners.
• Proven abilities in strategy development, program design, systems change, and impact-focused implementation.
• Familiarity with current trends such as technology-enhanced learning, digital transformation, and workforce readiness.

Core Skills and Competencies

• Strategic consulting and education system strengthening.
• Stakeholder and relationship management across complex environments.
• Effective communication, negotiation, and influencing skills.
• Political awareness, good judgment, and diplomatic approach.

Additional Information

This position is a one-year contract located onsite in Accra, Ghana, though exceptional candidates from any African country of operations are encouraged to apply. The Foundation values diversity and inclusivity and requires successful completion of reference and background checks. This role offers a distinguished opportunity to shape large-scale education transformation, collaborating with visionary leaders and partners to create inclusive learning and employment pathways for youth.