Program Associate/Coordinator - Strengthening Governance Phase II
Project Management / Program Management
About the Employer
Job Description
Title: Program Associate/Coordinator – Strengthening Governance Phase II
Status: Sri Lankan National Employee (Fixed-Term)
Reports to: Deputy Country Director
Project: Strengthening Governance Phase II
Strengthening Governance Phase II (SG II) Activity is a continuation of a governance program implemented by the International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES). SG II is a two-year project funded the Australian Government, focusing on elections and inclusive governance in Sri Lanka.
IFES is an international, nonprofit organization that supports the building of democratic societies. IFES promotes democratic stability by providing technical assistance and applying field-based research to the electoral cycle in countries around the world to enhance citizen participation and strengthen citizen participation and transparency. Founded in 1987 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, IFES has developed and implemented comprehensive, collaborative democracy solutions in more than 145 countries.
Primary Function/Purpose:
The Program Associate / Program Coordinator will provide SG II program administration and implementation support to the IFES Sri Lanka field office.
Major duties and responsibilities:
- Under the direction of the Deputy Country Director, the Program Associate / Program Coordinator job responsibilities will include:
- Assist in the preparation, organization, and maintenance of a proper filing system for all project-related documents.
- Support in translations and work with translators, including tracking review and distribution of translated materials.
- Assist in collecting and organizing data for monitoring and evaluation purposes, including conducting surveys, interviews, and collecting testimonials.
- Coordinate logistics for meetings, trainings, and field events, including scheduling, equipment set-up, preparing agendas and attendance sheets, and taking minutes.
- Assist in managing communication channels with program participants and stakeholders, including email correspondence and phone calls, both internally and externally.
- Support the drafting of reports, case studies, concept notes, and other project documents.
- Design and develop leaflets, brochures, social media posts, and other program communication materials.
- Facilitate necessary support for SG II program operations by collaborating with various service providers and networks, and managing payments and reimbursements to vendors or program participants.
- Attend meetings or events at request of the supervisor to gather and share information with colleagues.
- Any other duty or task as assigned by the supervisor.
Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree required in international development, international relations, political science, peace and conflict studies, law, or related field highly preferred; master’s degree a plus.
- Minimum of one year experience (Program Associate) or three years experience (Program Coordinator) in handling projects on governance, peacebuilding, inclusion, democratic processes, or human rights in Sri Lanka.
- Proven experience in disability rights, youth, political participation, and/or advocacy preferred.
Required Skills and Abilities:
- The ability to remain highly organized while handling multiple tasks under tight deadlines
- The ability to complete tasks with limited supervision
- English writing and analytical skills
- Strong communications skills in Sinhala and/or Tamil is required; knowledge of both languages is a plus
- Excellent networking and outreach skills
- Willingness to adhere to all principles of confidentiality
- Must value operating in a collaborative and cooperative environment
- Ability to handle sensitive issues and address inclusion with integrity
- Training/facilitation skills and experience would be an advantage
- Willing to travel outside of Colombo as required
- Field experience is highly desirable
If you are interested to apply for the position, please forward your CV and a writing sample to [email protected] on or before 5 June 2026. In your e-mail, please include in the subject line "Program Associate / Coordinator." Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit references and proof of previous work experience. IFES is an Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action Employer.
All qualified applicants/employees will receive consideration for employment/promotions and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, race, color, religion, national origin, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.
