Deputy Director, Development Policy & Finance, Africa
Gates Foundation
Nairobi, Kenya
Full Time
Published February 28, 2026
Job Description
Lead Africa‑focused fiscal policy and development finance strategy, mentor senior staff, manage grant portfolios, and represent the Gates Foundation in high‑level policy dialogues across the continent.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead development and execution of Africa‑facing fiscal policy and development finance strategies in collaboration with program teams and regional leadership.
- Translate complex macroeconomic and fiscal developments into actionable policy and advocacy priorities aligned with health and economic‑opportunity strategies.
- Cultivate and maintain high‑level relationships with ministries of finance, revenue authorities, economic planning ministries, central banks, and regional institutions.
- Supervise and mentor Senior Program Officers, promote DEI values, and foster a high‑performing team culture.
- Engage funders, development organisations, private sector, and policy researchers; support coordination with grantees and partners during regional visits.
- Partner with GPA, Global Development, Global Health, and other divisions to align regional strategies with programmatic priorities and generate analytical insights.
- Oversee fiscal‑policy and development‑finance‑related grantmaking portfolios; lead blended‑finance deals and ensure strategic alignment, impact, and high‑quality delivery.
- Represent the foundation in policy dialogues, technical forums, and continental/global platforms on development finance and macroeconomic issues.
Requirements
- Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Economics, Public Policy, Public Finance, International Development, or a related field.
- Minimum 15+ years senior‑level experience in development finance, fiscal policy, or macroeconomic policy analysis.
- Strong stakeholder experience with African ministries of finance, central banks, and regional/global economic institutions.
- Demonstrated leadership overseeing complex policy or advocacy portfolios.
- Strong analytical capabilities and ability to communicate economic insights effectively.
- Political acumen and deep understanding of Sub‑Saharan Africa’s political economy.
- Proven ability to mentor and develop senior staff.
Preferred Qualifications
- MBA/MSc/MA, PhD/Fellowship acceptable.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the Gates Foundation career portal at https://gatesfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com.
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Job Summary
| Company: | Gates Foundation |
| Location: | Nairobi, Kenya |
| Type: | Full Time |
| Posted: | 02/28/2026 |