The Association of Social Workers in Malawi (ASWiM) is a legally registered professional association established in May 2019 to promote and protect the social work profession and the well-being of the people it serves. ASWiM is governed by a National Executive Committee, Secretariat and Board of Trustees, with regional chapters in the Northern, Central, Eastern and Southern Regions. Its membership includes student and practising social workers from both the public and private sectors.
ASWiM is anticipating an award for a child development, care, and protection project. The overall objective of the project is to strengthen national systems that protect vulnerable children, support families, and improve early childhood development through locally led and sustainable approaches. The project will improve outcomes for vulnerable children by strengthening child protection systems, supporting families and caregivers, advancing integrated early childhood development and health services, strengthening referrals and case management, promoting family-based care, and reducing reliance on residential care.
Recruitment for all candidates is contingent upon successful award of the project and confirmation of project funding.
As a member of the project team, the Program Manager will provide overall technical and operational leadership for project implementation. The position will coordinate project planning, implementation, partner engagement, monitoring, reporting and learning in collaboration with Government of Malawi counterparts, local partners, community structures and other stakeholders.
Reporting to the National Coordinator and ASWIM General Secretary, the Program Manager will ensure that project activities are implemented in accordance with approved workplans, program quality principles and standards, donor requirements and relevant Government of Malawi policies and standards.
ASWiM is anticipating an award for a child development, care, and protection project. The overall objective of the project is to strengthen national systems that protect vulnerable children, support families, and improve early childhood development through locally led and sustainable approaches. The project will improve outcomes for vulnerable children by strengthening child protection systems, supporting families and caregivers, advancing integrated early childhood development and health services, strengthening referrals and case management, promoting family-based care, and reducing reliance on residential care.
Recruitment for all candidates is contingent upon successful award of the project and confirmation of project funding.
As a member of the project team, the Program Manager will provide overall technical and operational leadership for project implementation. The position will coordinate project planning, implementation, partner engagement, monitoring, reporting and learning in collaboration with Government of Malawi counterparts, local partners, community structures and other stakeholders.
Reporting to the National Coordinator and ASWIM General Secretary, the Program Manager will ensure that project activities are implemented in accordance with approved workplans, program quality principles and standards, donor requirements and relevant Government of Malawi policies and standards.
Job Summary
- Employer: The Association of Social Workers in Malawi (ASWiM)
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Lilongwe, Malawi
- Category: Project Management
- Closing Date: 2026-10-19
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the overall coordination and implementation of assigned project activities in accordance with the approved workplan and implementation plan.
- Develop and monitor annual, quarterly and monthly implementation plans.
- Coordinate with Government of Malawi institutions, district councils, local partners, community structures and other stakeholders.
- Provide technical leadership on child protection, social work, case management, family strengthening, referrals, family-based care and related interventions.
- Ensure quality and timely delivery of project activities in accordance with donor requirements.
- Coordinate partner engagement, technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities.
- Monitor project implementation, identify challenges and facilitate timely corrective action.
- Work closely with the MEAL Officer to track project performance, results and learning.
- Lead preparation and review of project reports and other donor deliverables.
- Support development and review of technical tools, guidelines, training materials and implementation approaches.
- Ensure effective integration of safeguarding, gender, disability inclusion, accountability and other cross-cutting priorities.
- Represent ASWiM in relevant technical meetings, coordination platforms and stakeholder engagements.
- Promote documentation and sharing of lessons learned, promising practices and project innovations.
- Support project budget planning and ensure implementation remains aligned with approved budgets.
- Provide leadership and supervision to project staff.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Work, Sociology, Development Studies or Community Development.
- A Master’s degree in Social Work will be an added advantage.
- Active registration with ASWIM as a paid-up member is a MUST.
- Minimum of 7 years of relevant professional experience, preferably in child protection, social work, community development or related programming.
- Demonstrated experience in programme/project management and coordination.
- Experience working with Government of Malawi institutions and district structures.
- Experience working with NGOs and/or donor-funded programmes.
- Strong knowledge of child protection, social welfare and social work systems in Malawi.
- Strong programme planning, coordination and management skills.
- Good understanding of child protection and social work systems.
- Knowledge of Malawian and International legislations and policies for children.
- Excellent report writing and communication skills.
- Strong partnership and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to analyse programme performance and identify implementation challenges.
- Ability to work effectively with diverse teams and communities.
- Proficient in MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
- Proactive, results-oriented and service-oriented.
- Strong interpersonal and leadership skills.
- Fluency in English and Chichewa.
How to Apply
Apply by email: aswimsecretariat@gmail.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for a Program Manager role at an NGO like ASWiM in Malawi?
Most employers require a bachelor's degree in social work, development studies, or project management, with a master's degree preferred for senior roles. Certifications such as PMP or PRINCE2 are increasingly valued, though hands-on experience in Malawian development contexts often weighs heavily.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Program Manager at a professional association in Malawi?
Daily tasks include coordinating project activities, managing donor relationships, supervising field staff, preparing reports for stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with government and funder regulations. You will also represent the organization at district and national coordination meetings.
How does workplace culture and management style typically function in Malawian NGOs and professional associations?
Hierarchical structures are common, with respect for seniority and formal communication channels expected. However, flexibility is often required due to resource constraints, and strong personal relationships and community trust are essential for effective program delivery.
What career progression opportunities exist for Program Managers in Malawi's development sector?
With proven performance, you can advance to Senior Program Manager, Country Director, or specialize in areas like monitoring and evaluation or grant management. Many also transition into consultancy or pursue further studies to access regional or international roles.
What benefits are typically included in Program Manager positions with Malawian NGOs and associations?
Standard packages usually include annual leave, medical insurance, and pension contributions, though coverage levels vary significantly by organization size and funding source. Some employers also provide housing allowances, transport, or professional development support.
What do employers in Malawi look for when hiring Program Managers, and how should I apply effectively?
Employers prioritize demonstrated experience managing donor-funded projects, strong proposal writing skills, and networks within Malawi's social development sector. Submit a tailored CV highlighting quantifiable achievements, a concise cover letter, and ensure referees can speak to your field-based management experience.