LVC026-Programme Manager, PacREF
Laucala Campus
Position Number/Title: VC026-PROGRAME MANAGER, PacREF
The Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate and dynamic leader to join the University of the South Pacific (USP) and contribute to delivering key strategies and University objectives.
The University of the South Pacific (USP) is the region’s premier higher education provider, which also provides essential research and regional integration services for the benefit of the lives of Pacific people. As part of regional architecture, the University is an integral constituent of the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP) and plays a lead role in the Working Groups for Human Resources Development (HRD) and strengthened Information Communication Technologies (ICT).
The Pacific Regional Educational Framework (PacREF) Programme Manager position will provide direct support to the Director - PacREF and the Vice Chancellor & President by undertaking management of operational, financial and administrative responsibilities of the PacREF Facilitating Unit as Secretariat to the member countries of the Conference of the Pacific Education Ministers Meeting and the Pacific Heads of Education Systems. The role will also support coordination of implementing agencies, convenings, engagement with countries and donor agencies and resource mobilisation, for PacREF implementation.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES
The key areas of work for the Programme Manager - PacREF will entail the following:
• Programme Coordination and Delivery:
o Develop and implement detailed work plans and budgets for PacREF Programme activities, in partnership with Implementing Agencies (IAs) and other relevant stakeholders.
o Maintain oversight of and engagement with other initiatives and programmes that contribute to PacREF objectives.
o Oversee day-to-day programme operations, ensuring timely delivery of outputs and activities.
o Identify risks or challenges in programme implementation and address these through relevant governance processes for Director of PacREF.
• Stakeholder Engagement:
o Act where required as the primary liaison for operational engagement with partner organizations, donors, and IAs.
o Support collaboration through regional workshops, consultations, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting:
o Provide guidance and support the design and implementation of M&E framework, drafting papers and reports and delivery where required.
o Prepare detailed progress and performance reports for the Director and relevant risk mitigation strategies across implementation and coordination at all levels.
o Incorporate lessons learned and best practices into programme activities.
• Administrative and Financial Oversight:
o Manage programme budgets, ensuring transparency and accountability.
o Supervise consultants supporting PacREF delivery.
• Resource Mobilization:
o Assist the Director in identifying and securing funding for programme activitie including proposal development with the Finance team and economic analysis for key meetings where required.
The Person we Seek
To be considered for this position, applicants must have:
- Degree and a postgraduate qualification from relevant discipline with five (5) years of relevant experience and proven management expertise; and
- At least 7 years of progressive experience in programme management roles, preferably in education and/or regional development contexts;
- Demonstrated experience in the effective management of complex programmes;
- Familiarity with education sector programming and data-driven programme management tools;
- Strong communication, facilitation, collaboration and report writing skills;
- Familiarity with education sector programming and data-driven programme management tools;
- Strong communication, facilitation, collaboration and report writing skills;
- Experience working in Pacific regional contexts;
- Understanding of regional architecture and priorities;
- Led teams and worked with complex working environments and strategic policy areas;
- Well versed with government systems, CROP agencies and UN partners; and
- Experience working with donors and multilateral partners.
Enquiries and further information: The position is available for a fixed term of 12 months and may be renewed subject to the availability of project funding.
Salary Range
- FJ$103,576.55 – 115,231.12 per annum
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is: 21 October, 2026
How to Apply
Click the Apply button to apply for this position online.
The advertisement criteria is available on our University website (www.usp.ac.fj) under Employment Opportunities.
Please include the following documents in your application: Academic Credentials/Transcripts, Cover letter clearly addressing key Selection Criteria and Resume with names of three referees, one of which must be your current or most recent direct work supervisor. Referees will only be contacted if you are selected.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
The University of the South Pacific is committed to providing a safe, inclusive and equitable environment that protects the rights of children; nurture, promote and facilitate mutual respect, constructive empowerment and progress amongst its employees, students, stakeholders including visitors, without being hampered by any form of sexual harassment, sexual abuse or sexual exploitation. We reserve the right to conduct police checks and other screening procedures to ensure a safe environment.
USP is an equal opportunity employer and seeks to ensure that everyone is treated with respect and given equal opportunities to work in an inclusive environment. USP encourages all qualified candidates to apply regardless of their racial, ethnic, religious and cultural background, gender, sexual orientation or disabilities.
