State Manager – Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Odisha

Role: State Manager – Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Odisha Experience: 8+ years Salary: Up to 15 LPA __________________________________________ About the role: We are seeking a dynamic and highly motivated professional to join our State Program Team. The State Manager for Policy & Strategic Initiatives will play a pivotal role in providing state government policy input while leading the planning, execution, and management of strategic programs at the state level. Key Responsibilities 1. Policy & Technical Support Support government departments in implementing, funding, and monitoring interventions for inclusive education and systems transformation. Analyze state government policies, schemes, and budgets to identify gap areas and influence policy action. 2. Strategic Planning & Implementation Collaborate with cross-functional teams to conceptualize and design flagship programs, including early identification and entrepreneurship initiatives. Take ownership of day-to-day execution, ensuring alignment with program goals and timelines. Oversee budgeting processes, monitor expenditures, and identify cost-saving opportunities. 3. Stakeholder Engagement Manage relationships with internal and external stakeholders, fostering collaboration throughout the program lifecycle. Communicate effectively with leadership and partners to achieve strategic objectives. 4. Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning (MEL) Establish robust monitoring frameworks to track performance against predetermined metrics. Prepare comprehensive reports highlighting achievements, challenges, and key learnings for stakeholders. 5. Innovation & Risk Management Identify potential risks in program implementation and develop effective mitigation strategies. Apply a creative and innovative mindset to enhance the impact of various interventions. Eligibility Criteria Education: Bachelors degree in a relevant field is required. A Postgraduate degree is strongly preferred in Public Policy, Education, Development Studies, Economics, Public Administration, or related disciplines. Experience: 3–10+ years of proven experience in program management or strategic initiatives, specifically working with central or state governments. Sector Expertise: Demonstrated experience in government relationships, policy advisory, and education sector reforms. Language: Must be fluent in the Official State Language of Odisha. Technical Skills: Proficient in technology, including emerging tools like AI. Required Skills & Attributes Self-motivated with a passion for public administration and systems transformation. Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with a results-oriented mindset. Strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving. Adaptable and open to embracing innovative, "out-of-the-box" approaches. - Hiring Note : Applications will be reviewed on rolling basis. This job is first posted on March 3, 2026, on Ground Zero For any questions, ping us on WhatsApp Chat helpline : +91-8058331557