Head - Education

Role overview

This leadership role is responsible for shaping and scaling the education agenda for Reliance Foundation, with a strong focus on strategy, programme design, partnerships, and measurable outcomes. The position calls for someone who can build long-term direction for education and skills initiatives while also turning that vision into executable plans.

Key responsibilities

• Create the strategic roadmap for the education vertical and align it with broader organisational goals.
• Set the long-term direction, priorities, and initiatives for new education programmes within Reliance Foundation.
• Design, coordinate, and oversee specialised programmes aimed at improving learning outcomes, especially in early childhood education, digital learning for primary and secondary education, and further education.
• Develop approaches that increase the reach and effectiveness of existing education initiatives.
• Shape the education and skills strategy, including the qualification framework and related programme direction.
• Ensure that education and skills programmes are planned and delivered in line with agreed procedures and quality standards.
• Convert strategy into practical operating plans with implementation methods, resource needs, monitoring and evaluation systems, milestones, deliverables, timelines, and budgets.
• Use the wider RIL ecosystem to strengthen the delivery of education programmes.
• Build a strong monitoring and evaluation framework for education initiatives.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with government bodies, national and international development organisations, and other key stakeholders.
• Provide direction for multiple partnership projects involving state, national, and international funding agencies.
• Set up formal partnership arrangements that protect stakeholder interests while improving overall programme impact.
• Strengthen relationships with local partners and boards, particularly in the areas of education and skills.
• Share effective practices, participate in regional and national networking forums, and represent programmes at events.
• Work closely with partner agencies and other stakeholders to maximise programme impact.
• Stay current on developments in education, skills training, and changes in government policy and strategy.

Education and experience

The role requires a postgraduate degree in management, development administration, or a PhD in Education. A qualification in education or a related field is preferred. Candidates should bring 15+ years of experience leading programmes in development or social impact organisations, the education sector, strategy consulting, or entrepreneurial settings. Experience with technology-enabled strategies or platforms is an added advantage.

Skills and competencies

Strong capability is expected in social impact, entrepreneurial thinking, programme design and execution, and interpersonal communication.

Additional information

This is a full-time, on-site position based in Mumbai, Maharashtra, India.