Program Manager – Market Systems for Employment (PROPEL)

About the role

The Program Manager Market Systems for Employment (MS4E) will lead the in‑country implementation of the PROPEL program in Dakar, ensuring that interventions are market‑driven, adaptive, and results‑oriented. This senior position reports to regional leadership and works closely with local partners to translate regional strategy into concrete actions that address youth unemployment, especially for NEET populations.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute annual and quarterly work plans aligned with PROPEL’s regional strategy and Senegal’s market context.
• Conduct and continuously update Political Economy Analyses to inform program design and implementation.
• Lead private‑sector‑led models and youth segmentation approaches to create scalable livelihood pathways.
• Oversee monitoring, evaluation, and learning processes to track impact and adjust interventions.
• Manage a multidisciplinary team, ensuring effective coordination with Mercy Corps headquarters and local partners.
• Travel up to 70% within Senegal to engage stakeholders, conduct field assessments, and support implementation.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading market‑systems or youth‑employment programs in a development context.
• Experience conducting Political Economy Analysis and applying findings to program design.
• Ability to design and implement private‑sector‑led interventions targeting NEET youth.
• Fluency in French and English.
• Eligibility to work in Senegal (national or resident with independent right to work).
• Willingness to travel extensively within the country.

Required skills