DW Akademie is seeking a Program Director for its Windhoek office, starting 1 February 2027 or as soon as possible. The full-time local staff contract runs initially until 31 December 2027, with the possibility of extension. The role steers DW Akademie’s media development work in Namibia and across Southern Africa.
Key responsibilities
* Provide operational and strategic steering of DW Akademie’s activities in Namibia and across the region of Southern Africa, including the development of country and regional approaches
* Ensure the successful implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of media development projects, in particular BMZ and EU
* Represent DW Akademie and the Namibia Office in engagements with external stakeholders in Namibia and across the region
* Ensure office operations, incl. local staff coordination, project administration and accounting, risk management and knowledge management
* Provide strategic, technical, and administrative advisory support to partner organisations
* Oversee financial management, budgeting and controlling as well as compliance with legal and regulatory requirements
* Coordinate with donors and other stakeholders, drive resource mobilisation and undertake regular travel within Southern Africa and to Germany
Requirements
* Degree or equivalent qualification in media studies, communication, journalism, or other relevant fields
* Longstanding professional experience in the field of freedom of expression and media development, especially training and consulting; journalistic experience required
* Solid expertise in topics of media development cooperation (Media Information Literacy, Media Viability, Journalism Education), AI expertise an advantage; excellent knowledge of the media situation in Namibia and Southern Africa
* In-depth knowledge of strategic approaches in international development cooperation; demonstrated experience in project/programme management (ideally BMZ and/or EU)
* Excellent organizational and coordination skills in the context of diverse international program teams; high level of intercultural competence and respect for diversity
* High degree of initiative, flexibility, and the ability to work under pressure
* Excellent communication skills; professional language proficiency in English (min. level C1) required, German language skills an advantage
* Willingness and ability to travel regularly within the region and to Germany
How to apply
Submit a complete application, including CV and cover letter in English, by 5 November 2026. Apply here (https://recruitingapp-5401.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/2827/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng).
For more information, please visit this page (https://recruitingapp-5401.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/2827/Description/2?lang=eng).
Deadline: 05/11/2026
HOW TO APPLY:
Submit a complete application, including CV and cover letter in English, by 5 November 2026. Apply here: https://recruitingapp-5401.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/2827/Application/CheckLogin/2?lang=eng. For more information, please visit: https://recruitingapp-5401.de.umantis.com/Vacancies/2827/Description/2?lang=eng