Program Officer Media, Arts and Culture Eastern Africa SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: The Program Officer will be responsible for grant making in media, arts and culture in the Foundation’s Office in Eastern Africa. The Program Officer will build on and develop programming achievements in the portfolio’s ‘Building Sustainable Spaces for Creativity and Culture’ initiative, while developing and strengthening innovative interventions in an emergent media aspect of the work. The successful candidate will be expected to carry forward a strong portfolio of grants supporting high quality artistic production, creativity, policy development and the promotion of viable institutions and players in the creative arts, media and culture as means of focusing public reflection, promoting civic engagement and addressing society’s concerns. Grant making will also be expected to build and strengthen linkages and exchange programs among artistic, cultural and media organizations in the region, across the continent and worldwide. The Program Officer is expected to develop and maintain close working relationship with existing and potential grantees, research and training institutions, leaders in government and civil society. Working with the Representative in Nairobi and other Ford Foundation staff, the Program Officer will develop grant making strategies; identify prospective grantees; solicit, review and respond to grant proposals; prepare recommendations for Foundation funding; and monitor and evaluate progress. In addition to advancing the media, arts and culture agenda, the Program Officer is expected to contribute to the office’s overall strategic direction for the region. The Program Officer will also collaborate with colleagues in the Foundation’s other offices to advance a worldwide agenda around the Foundation’s goals in the media, arts and culture fields. QUALIFICATIONS: A degree in the arts, humanities, the design disciplines, media or other related disciplines (preferably an advanced degree); professional experience and leadership in the arts, culture and the media; an understanding of program development and the ability to conceptualize programmatic ideas and strategies; strong managerial, organizational and interpersonal skills; excellent analytical and writing skills in English; and strong facilitating skills. Experience in East Africa or similar geographical location is highly desirable. Grant making experience will be an advantage. Location: Nairobi, Kenya Target Date: Fall 2006 Salary is based on experience and on the Foundation’s commitment to internal equity. A generous benefits package is provided.

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