Project Manager - EDGE with UNICEF

As a valued employee of the British Council, you already help us deliver our mission to support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For over 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity. You are part of our organisation in over 200 countries and territories and where we are on the ground in more than 100 countries. We connect. We inspire. * Job Title: Project Manager – EDGE & UNICEF * Pay Band – 6 * Closing Date (Time) – 10th August 2026 * Location – Pakistan * Contract – Fixed Term Contract Local Purpose of job: The Project Manager is responsible for delivering the EDGE with UNICEF Punjab project, ensuring effective implementation, stakeholder engagement, financial accountability, and compliance with British Council and donor requirements. The role manages project operations, partnerships, budgets, vendors, and risk to ensure successful programme delivery across Punjab. Working closely with UNICEF, government stakeholders, and internal teams, the role supports operational excellence and the achievement of project outcomes. Main opportunities/challenges for this role Accountabilities, responsibilities and main duties: * Ensure the implementation of project and budget plans in close collaboration with partners. * Coordinate and monitor project activities and stakeholder engagement across 7 districts. * Manage financial reporting and ensure transparency and compliance with donor and British Council requirements. * Facilitate communication and coordination between internal teams and external partners. * Ensure adherence to security and safety policies throughout the project lifecycle. * Maintain compliance with all project, financial, and risk management procedures. * Oversee procurement processes and vendor management adhering to British Council standards. * Review operational invoices for accuracy and timely payment. * Serve as the key point of contact for operational issues related to training, travel, security, and procurement. * Manage the execution of the training plan across project districts. * Support senior delivery teams with operational planning and coordination for smooth programme delivery. Role specific knowledge and experience * Strong project management and leadership skills * Financial management and budget oversight * Excellent stakeholder engagement and communication abilities * Experience in procurement and vendor management * Risk and compliance management expertise * Ability to manage complex operational logistics Minimum/Essential: * Proven experience managing large-scale education or development projects. * Familiarity with financial reporting and compliance for donor-funded projects. * Experience working with multiple stakeholders including government and NGOs. * Knowledge of British Council and UNICEF operational policies and procedures. * Understanding of security and safety protocols in project environments. * Proficiency in project management tools and Microsoft Office suite. Desirable: * Experience working specifically with UNICEF or British Council projects. * In-depth knowledge of the education sector and government systems in Pakistan. * Strong background in contract management and vendor oversight. * Previous success in managing training programmes and coordinating field operations. * Skills in risk management and mitigation strategies. * Experience in grant management and donor reporting. A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities. Safeguarding Statement The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children. If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email askhr@britishcouncil.org