Requirements

Additional Requirements

• At least 15 years’ progressive leadership experience in development, preferably including organizational transition/localization.

• Deep understanding of governance and regulatory frameworks in Bangladesh.

• Proven success in strategic leadership and institutional strengthening.

• Strong track record in fundraising, donor relations, and financial management.

• Excellent team-building and communication skills.

• In-depth understanding of safeguarding principles and their application in the Bangladesh context.

• Fluency in Bangla and English (spoken and written).

Responsibilities & Context

United Purpose Bangladesh is recruiting the Executive Director to lead the organization as it transitions into an independent National organisation………

United Purpose formerly “Concern Universal” has been working in Bangladesh for the last 33 years in areas of Food security, Nutrition and livelihoods, Disaster risk reduction and Humanitarian response, Women economic empowerment, Health, Human rights and governance etc. During 2023, the Boards of United Purpose and Self Help Africa (the parent organisation) decided to exit Bangladesh by facilitating the establishment of an independent local organization “United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation” that could build on the legacy of United Purpose. The local organisation is being established under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 as a not-for-profit organisation. United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation is governed by an independent board of directors with significant experience from diverse backgrounds including international development, public and private sector.

If you are ready to

• Lead this pioneering initiative to strengthen local ownership and sustainability in Bangladesh’s development sector.
• Lead an impactful organization committed to community-driven change, with a strong emphasis on climate resilience, equity, and social justice.
• Work with a passionate team dedicated to innovation and resilience-building in alignment with United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation’s strategic goals

Please read further……

Reporting to: The Chair, Board of Directors of United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation

Employment Type: Full-time, permanent

1. About United Purpose Bangladesh

United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation focuses on community-driven programming and strong partnerships with local leaders with an aim to move "Beyond Aid." It primarily operates through Women Business Centres (WBCs), women-led enterprise hubs addressing key sustainable development challenges. In humanitarian settings, United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation applies similar community-based approaches, under the Humanitarian-Development Nexus. By prioritising livelihoods, it promotes independence from future aid, supporting grassroots enterprises and addressing needs such as health, nutrition, climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and WASH. United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation collaborates with public and private stakeholders, local organisations, INGOs, and UN agencies aligned with its mission to support vulnerable communities, smallholders, and women farmers.​​​​​​ During 2023, the Boards of United Purpose and Self Help Africa (the parent organisation) decided to exit Bangladesh by facilitating the establishment of an independent local organization “United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation” that could build on the legacy of United Purpose. The local organisation is being established under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 as a not-for-profit organisation.

United Purpose Bangladesh Foundation shall act as catalyst for social transformation, that champions sustainable development, human dignity, and resilience. By integrating economic empowerment, social justice, environmental sustainability, and climate adaptation, it fosters inclusive growth, equitable access to opportunities, and strengthened human security for vulnerable communities

2. Job Summary

The Executive Director will provide visionary leadership, strategic direction, and operational oversight for United Purpose Bangladesh as it transitions into an independent National NGO. The role requires a dynamic and experienced leader who will drive organizational sustainability, foster partnerships, and ensure programmatic excellence while maintaining accountability to the local Board of Directors and stakeholders. The Executive Director will be responsible for implementing the organization's strategic priorities, focusing on inclusive growth, social justice, and climate resilience.

3. Key Responsibilities

Strategic Planning

• Lead the strategic transition process from an international entity to a fully localized National NGO, ensuring alignment with United Purpose Bangladesh's long-term vision and sustainability.
• Develop and execute the organization’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with national priorities and community needs while driving impact in key thematic areas such as livelihoods, WASH, climate resilience, and social inclusion.
• Strengthening governance and institutional capacity to enhance transparency, accountability, and operational efficiency, reinforcing local ownership and leadership.

Leadership

• Provide visionary and adaptive leadership to ensure a high-performing, mission-driven organization.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability within the organization.
• Guide the organization's overall direction while maintaining alignment with its mission and values.

Program Development

• Lead program design and implementation to maximize impact, innovation, and scalability.
• Ensure evidence-based approaches are applied to drive sustainable community transformation.
• Promote robust monitoring, evaluation, and learning practices to enhance program effectiveness and inform strategic decision making.

Partnership Development, Fundraising and Social Impact Investment

• Lead the development and management of strategic partnerships with donors, government agencies, civil society organizations, and the private sector to advance United Purpose Bangladesh’s mission and programmatic goals.
• Drive a diversified and sustainable fundraising strategy, encompassing traditional sources such as institutional grants and public-private partnerships, while actively exploring and integrating forward-looking financing models.
• Champion the adoption of innovative funding mechanisms—including social impact investments, blended finance, and social enterprise initiatives—to enhance financial resilience and scale long-term impact.
• Position United Purpose Bangladesh as a credible partner for impact-driven investors and stakeholders seeking measurable social and environmental returns alongside financial outcomes

Program Delivery

• Oversee the effective implementation of programs to achieve the desired impact.
• Ensure programs are delivered efficiently, and with high quality, within budget, and in compliance with organizational and donor requirements.

Finance and Operational Management

• Oversee financial management, ensuring sustainable resource mobilization, financial resilience, and adherence to compliance requirements.
• Ensure sound and strategic financial planning, budgeting, and reporting to the Board and key stakeholders.

Human Resource Management

• Develop and mentor a high-performing team, fostering a culture of integrity, inclusivity, and excellence.
• Ensure effective HR policies and procedures are in place to support staff well-being and performance.

Safeguarding

• Uphold and enforce safeguarding policies to protect beneficiaries, staff, and stakeholders from harm and abuse, ensuring a zero-tolerance approach to exploitation and misconduct.
• Promote a culture of respect, dignity, and accountability across the organization.

Compliance and Risk Management

• Ensure organizational compliance with national laws, donor regulations, and ethical standards.
• Identify, assess, and mitigate organizational risks to maintain operational integrity.

Stakeholder Engagement, Influencing, and Advocacy

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government bodies, donors, community leaders, and partner organizations.
• Advocate for policies and initiatives that support community-led development and sustainable impact.
• Represent United Purpose Bangladesh in national and international forums, promoting its mission and strategic objectives.