Exciting Job Opportunity: Join Our Team Programme Officer - Governance and Human Rights

The new Danish Embassy will be dedicated to promoting Denmark's diplomatic, development, and trade interests in Rwanda. We are a dynamic mission where teamwork, high performance and accountability are key to our success. The Embassy of Denmark in Kigali is seeking a qualified and motivated Programme Officer to join its Development Cooperation Team and lead Denmark’s engagement in the areas of governance, and human rights. The successful candidate will be responsible for overseeing programme implementation, policy dialogue, grant management, and stakeholder coordination under this key thematic area of the Embassy’s development cooperation with Rwanda.

This is a mid- to senior-level position with high responsibility, requiring a solid understanding of governance and human rights programming, strong partner management skills, and a sound grasp of international development principles. The role offers an opportunity to contribute directly to Denmark’s efforts to promote good governance, civic space, and inclusive development.

Position: Programme Officer – Governance and Human Rights
Duty Station: Embassy of Denmark to Rwanda, Kigali
Reports to: Deputy Head of Mission / Team Leader for Development Cooperation

Main Responsibilities

Programme Implementation

• Lead the strategic implementation of projects under the Embassy’s governance and human rights programme, including results-based management, financial oversight, and performance monitoring.
• Provide technical support and guidance to implementing partners to ensure programme quality, policy alignment, and impact.
• Engage with partners, civil society actors, and government institutions to advance project objectives.
• Ensure effective integration of cross-cutting issues such as gender equality, civic engagement, and anti-corruption.

Grant Management and Compliance

• Draft, review and manage grant agreements, ensuring alignment with Danish development cooperation rules and procedures.
• Oversee financial and narrative reporting, procurement processes, and compliance monitoring.
• Monitor and assess risks (including fraud or misuse), and support anti-corruption safeguards and accountability measures.
• Maintain accurate documentation and ensure timely updates in Embassy financial systems and reporting tools.

Relationship and Partnership Management

• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with development partners, civil society, think tanks, and relevant government entities.
• Represent the Embassy in donor coordination platforms and policy dialogue on governance and human rights.
• Contribute to knowledge sharing, technical briefings, and external reporting.
• Monitor the evolving governance landscape in Rwanda and the region, and provide strategic advice to Embassy management.

Strategic Engagement and Communication

• Contribute to the Embassy’s internal strategy development and results framework design for the governance programme.
• Actively support Embassy-wide communications, including the preparation of success stories, contributions to social media and website updates.
• Provide analytical inputs and thematic briefings to senior management as required.

Key Tasks in the Year Ahead

• Onboard and engage new partners under the governance and human rights portfolio.

• Support the development and operationalisation of programme results frameworks.

• Conduct regular partner visits and implementation monitoring.

• Contribute to Embassy context analyses and thematic reporting.

• Provide backup support to other programme areas as needed.

• Contribute to the Embassy’s external communication, visibility, and strategic messaging.

Key Qualifications and Experience

Candidates must hold at minimum a Bachelor’s degree in political science, international development, human rights, law, public administration, or a related field, and have at least 5 years of relevant professional experience in programme management, governance reform, or rights-based development. A Master’s degree + additional years of experience in similar roles is considered a strong asset.

Applicants should have demonstrated experience in working with civil society, public sector institutions, or development partners on issues related to governance, accountability, democratic participation, or access to justice. Experience in financial management, grant oversight, and stakeholder coordination is essential. Familiarity with Danish or other European donor systems is an advantage.

Required Competencies

• Strong understanding of governance, civic space, and human rights in a development context.

• Proven skills in programme implementation, policy engagement, and results-based reporting.

• Ability to build and maintain effective partnerships and networks.

• Excellent communication and analytical skills in English; French or Kinyarwanda is an advantage.

• High standards of integrity, diplomacy, and professionalism.

What We Offer

• A dynamic and impactful role within Denmark’s international cooperation framework.

• An international working environment with opportunities to engage with high-level stakeholders.

• Competitive salary and employment conditions based on qualifications and experience.

• A chance to contribute meaningfully to democratic governance and inclusive development in Rwanda.

How to Apply:

Please submit your application (cover letter, CV, and references) to Sandberg ltd, leading recruitment company in Rwanda

• To application@sandberg-ltd.com
• Email subject line: Application Programme Officer – Governance and Human Rights
• Application Deadline: 14.07.2025 AT 5PM 
• The applicant should list 2-3 references

The applicant must present a “no criminal record” and pass security clearance prior to Employment.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. Applications must be submitted in English and in PDF format. Late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Join our team and play an essential role in the continued success and impact of our mission. We look forward to receiving your application!