Deputy Director, Development Policy & Finance, Africa — Gates Foundation (Nairobi)

Deputy Director, Development Policy & Finance, Africa

Job Description

The Deputy Director for Development Policy & Finance (Africa) is a senior leadership role responsible for shaping and executing fiscal policy and development finance strategies across the continent. This role serves as a strategic bridge between complex macroeconomic developments and actionable advocacy priorities in health and agriculture. Reporting to regional leadership, the Deputy Director leads high-level engagement with ministries of finance and central banks to mobilize capital and strengthen fiscal governance, ensuring that the foundation’s regional investments align with global programmatic goals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of Africa-facing fiscal policy and development finance strategies
• Cultivate high-level relationships with ministries of finance, revenue authorities, and regional economic institutions
• Oversee a complex grantmaking portfolio related to fiscal policy and lead key blended finance deals
• Supervise and mentor a team of Senior Program Officers, fostering an inclusive and high-performing culture
• Represent the foundation in continental and global platforms on macroeconomic issues and policy dialogues
• Provide strategic briefings to inform leadership decision-making and regional prioritization
• Partner with internal divisions (Global Health, Global Development) to ensure regional strategies reflect programmatic needs
• Manage risks and reputation associated with Africa development policy and global initiatives

Qualifications & Experience

• Advanced degree (Master’s or higher) in Economics, Public Policy, Public Finance, or International Development
• Minimum 15+ years of senior-level experience in development finance or macroeconomic policy analysis
• Proven experience working with African central banks, the World Bank, AfDB, and IMF
• Demonstrated leadership in overseeing large-scale policy or advocacy portfolios
• Deep understanding of Sub-Saharan Africa’s political economy
• Strong analytical capabilities and ability to communicate complex economic insights to diverse audiences

Method of Application

Apply via:  Gates Foundation on gatesfoundation.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com