Job Description

• Commencement: January 2027
• Long term role, up to February 2028 (w/potential for extension)
• Based in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea
• Open to All Applicants*

*Abt is committed to advancing women’s leadership in PNG’s economic development and are building an environment where women can lead progress and shape economic outcomes. Abt promotes an inclusive, respectful and safe working environment for women

This position includes a housing allowance, health insurance, and supportive workplace for parents and carers, including relevant leave and other benefits.

Port Moresby is a family post offering a vibrant mix of cultures, scenic coastal views, and welcoming local and international communities. Residents enjoy access to modern amenities including quality restaurants, supermarkets, hotels, and wildlife park, as well as outdoor activities including hiking, sailing, fishing and more.

About the Program

The Australia–Papua New Guinea Economic Partnership (APEP) is a flagship partnership supporting Papua New Guinea’s economic development priorities. Delivered by the Government of Australia in close collaboration with the Government of Papua New Guinea, APEP focuses on strengthening economic systems, institutions, and opportunities that support sustainable and inclusive growth through to 2028.

Working alongside government, research institutions, and development partners, APEP delivers coordinated and high‑impact outcomes across four key engagement areas:

• Safeguarding Macroeconomic Stability
• Supporting More Efficient and Inclusive Markets
• Fostering Inclusive Growth and Expanded Livelihoods
• Catalysing Economic Research and Dialogue

Gender equality, disability social inclusion (GEDSI), women’s economic empowerment, and climate are central to APEP and integrated across all engagement areas and activities.

About the Opportunity

The Senior Program Manager (SPM), Economic Research & Dialogue (ERD) will work closely with APEP teams and externally with PNG partners and research institutions to shape and deliver high‑quality, policy‑relevant research that supports Papua New Guinea’s economic development.

The position will manage the design and implementation of research activities aligned to priority area of economic and social development including macro-economic policy, strengthening a business enabling environment, and agricultural growth in PNG.

Externally, the position will lead the management of key partnerships with Australia National University and the University of Papua New Guinea, as well as with other Australian academic institutions. The role includes working with national research institutions, individual researchers, GoPNG agencies, and other partners to apply a range of approaches which address existing knowledge and data gaps and strengthen research capacity, quality, and take-up in PNG.

The position will be responsible for managing ERD resourcing and supervising the ERD team on a day-to-day basis.

The role offers opportunities for regional engagement, collaboration with leading Australian and national research institutions, and contribution to high-level economic policy dialog. APEP is supportive of professional development and career growth.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the ERD team to design and develop research concepts and activities.
• Develop and maintain strong and effective stakeholder relationships - includes APEP teams, Australian High Commission, GoPNG agencies, and development partners.
• Accurately manage ERD monthly budget forecasting and expenditure.
• Manage APEP agreements, partnerships, and subcontracts in accordance with corporate and DFAT policies.
• Supervise ERD staff to effectively manage performance, ensure accountability and support skills development as required.
• Integrate GEDSI, Women’s Economic Empowerment, Climate and First Nations Australian perspectives into all ERD activities.
• Other responsibilities as agreed with the APEP Director.

About You

For applications to be considered, a response to the Selection Criteria below should be provided

• A degree in a relevant field (i.e., Statistics, Economics, Business Management, and related areas).
• Experience developing and implementing development or research strategies, plans and budgets.
• Ability to analyse situations, problems, or risks and propose appropriate responses, solutions, and mitigations.
• Experience in managing staff resources and performance to deliver expected outputs and outcomes.
• Proven experience integrating key cross-cutting themes such as GEDSI, Women’s Economic Empowerment, climate change and First Nations’ perspectives.
• Understanding of the research context, environment, and organisations in PNG preferred.

“We value capability and potential, and welcome applicants who believe they can succeed in this role. If you consider yourself qualified for the position, by meeting most selection criteria, you’re encouraged to apply.”

How to Apply

• Please ensure to address the Selection Criteria (About You) in your cover letter, and submit your application online, along with your CV as a single document.
• Applications must be submitted personally by individuals only. Applications submitted by a company or organisation will not be accepted.
• The successful applicant will be engaged through an employment agreement determined by Abt.

We welcome and thank all applications; however, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted

Closing Date: Sunday, 2 August 2026 (Midday, local time) #LI-AUSBRIT

Abt Global is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to upholding high standards of Child Protection, Anti-bribery and Fraud Protection.

We encourage applications from experienced and capable women, and people with disabilities