Programme Manager, Behavioural Insights Unit – Uttar Pradesh

Reports to

Deputy Director of Policy, UP-BIU

Employment Type

Full-time

Experience (in years)

7–10 Years

Location

Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Application Deadline

15th November 2025

(Shortlisting is on a rolling basis; the position will close once filled.)

About The Centre For Social And Behaviour Change (CSBC)
The Centre for Social and Behaviour Change (CSBC), Ashoka University – India's leading Liberal Arts University – is funded by a grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF). CSBC aims to build an India-based institution globally recognised for thought leadership and excellence in behavioural change for low-income and marginalised populations.

We bring together behavioural science, design thinking, advanced data analytics, and responsive feedback systems to strengthen public programmes. CSBC works closely with Central and State Governments across nutrition, sanitation, maternal and newborn health, financial inclusion, agriculture, and data privacy.

The UP Behavioural Insights Unit (UP-BIU) is CSBC's flagship initiative to embed behavioural insights in policy, strengthening outcomes across key sectors in the state through evidence-informed design, experimentation, and scale-up.

Overview
The Programme Manager will lead high-quality project delivery and manage strategic partnerships across the UP ecosystem. We are looking for a strong programme leader who can build relationships across government, design scale-ready solutions, and guide a multidisciplinary team. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in complex environments, enjoys problem-solving, and brings both rigour and creativity to institutionalising behavioural insights in policymaking.

Role and Responsibilities

Partnership Development & Government Engagement

• Identify policy challenges and co-design projects with government and partner organisations.
• Facilitate consultations and co-creation workshops to ensure alignment with government priorities.
• Maintain regular touchpoints with senior officials and technical teams to secure buy-in and remove bottlenecks.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Develop and implement a communication strategy for programme activities and insights.
• Prepare briefs, policy notes, updates, talking points, and presentations for leadership and government partners.
• Oversee public-facing communication with the comms team—press releases, case studies, digital content.
• Lead stakeholder meetings, workshops, and dissemination events.
• Support crisis or sensitive communication to ensure accuracy and alignment.

Project Management & Delivery

• Develop and manage detailed project plans—scope, timelines, budgets, resources, and risks.
• Monitor progress, maintain a real-time dashboard, and prepare internal/external reports.
• Coordinate across BIU staff and implementing agencies for quality assurance and timely outputs.

Advocacy & Public Representation

• Represent CSBC in state and district meetings, events, and conferences.
• Collaborate with the communications team to develop advocacy materials supporting scale-up pathways.

Travel & Fieldwork

• Travel to districts as required to oversee implementation, build relationships, and support learning activities.
• Spend extended time in districts during intensive project phases.

Qualifications And Skills Required
Education

• Bachelor's degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Business Administration, or related fields.
• Master's degree preferred.

Experience

• 7–10 years of programme management experience in the non-profit or development sector.
• Proven experience managing large, complex projects.
• Experience in M&E, resource management, and stakeholder engagement.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strategic thinker with strong problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency in project management tools.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

Application Submission Process

Prepare An Updated CV
We invite you to apply to Ashoka University's Centre for Social and Behaviour Change. Please follow the application process outlined below:

Submit Your Application
Highlight professional achievements, skills, and relevant experience.

Email your CV to with the subject line:

"Programme Manager UP-BIU – CSBC (Applicant Name)"

Include Essential Details

• Last compensation received
• Expected salary
• Notice period

Pursuit For Excellence
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted as part of CSBC's rigorous selection process.

Deadlines
Applications will be reviewed on a first-come, first-served basis.

We look forward to receiving your application as we embark together on a remarkable journey of professional growth and development. Join our exceptional community at Ashoka University, where excellence is nurtured, and aspirations are transformed into reality.