State Manager – Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Odisha

Location: Odisha, , India

Role: State Manager – Policy & Strategic Initiatives, Odisha

Experience: 8+ years

Salary: Up to 15 LPA

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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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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.

1. 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