29.05.2026

Call for Applications | Full-Time Programme Manager Politics and Security Portfolio

How should democracies respond to rising geopolitical tensions, institutional challenges, and shifting security realities? Join FES Philippines and help create the spaces where these questions are debated, challenged, and shaped.

Starting Date: As soon as possible

Location: Manila, Philippines

Scope of Employment: Full-time (40h/week)

Initial Contract Period: 6-month probationary period

Application Deadline: Please submit your application by 26th of June 2026.

About Us

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) is a German independent non-profit organization committed to the values of social democracy. With offices and projects in more than 100 countries worldwide, FES promotes democracy, social justice, peace, gender equality, decent work, and international dialogue.

FES Philippines works closely with a broad network of partners from civil society, academia, trade unions, political institutions, and policy communities. Our programmes focus on democratic governance, social justice, peace and security, gender equality, the future of work, climate justice, and regional geopolitical developments in the Asia-Pacific.

More information about our work can be found at: https://philippines.fes.de/ 

The Position

FES Philippines is seeking a highly motivated and politically interested Programme Manager with strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills to support and further develop our work on political affairs, democratic governance, and foreign and security policy.

The position offers an exciting opportunity to work at the intersection of politics, policy, international dialogue, and programme management within a dynamic regional and international environment.

Main Responsibilities

  • Develop, coordinate, and implement programme activities related to political affairs, democracy, and Philippine foreign and security policy;
  • Maintain and strengthen cooperation with a broad range of partner organizations, including research institutions, civil society organizations, government stakeholders, legislative bodies, and defense/security policy communities;
  • Organize conferences, workshops, seminars, dialogue formats, study visits, and international delegation programmes (in-person and online);
  • Conduct political research, monitoring, and analytical work on domestic political and legislative developments in the Philippines, as well as their implications for the country's foreign policy and national security posture;
  • Contribute to concept development, strategic planning, reporting, and programme evaluation;
  • Manage administrative processes, financial monitoring, and budget implementation related to programme activities;
  • Support the networking, external engagement, and representation work of FES Philippines where relevant. 

The Programme Manager will work closely with the Resident Representative and the wider FES Philippines team.

Qualifications and Requirements

  • A Master’s degree (or equivalent) in Political Science, International Relations, Economics, Public Policy, or a related field;
  • At least 3-5 years of relevant professional experience in programme management, policy work, research, political institutions, civil society, or related areas;
  • Strong knowledge of political, economic, and social developments in the Philippines, particularly in the areas of governance, institutional reform, and foreign and security policy, ideally with knowledge of broader Asia-Pacific developments;
  • Excellent written and spoken English skills;
  • Strong analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills;
  • Excellent communication and coordination abilities;
  • The ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and work effectively under pressure and deadlines;
  • A high degree of attention to detail, reliability, and professionalism;
  • Willingness to travel;
  • Philippine national.

Knowledge of German is considered an asset but is not required.

What We Offer

  • A politically engaging and internationally connected working environment;
  • A collaborative, diverse, and highly motivated team environment;
  • Competitive compensation and benefits package, including health-related benefits and paid leave;
  • Flexible working arrangements in accordance with office policies and operational requirements.
  • Opportunities for professional development and regional engagement across Asia-Pacific networks.

FES is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity. We strongly encourage applications from individuals of different backgrounds, genders, and experiences.

Application Process

Interested applicants are invited to submit the following documents:

  • Letter of motivation
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Relevant supporting documents and certificates
  • Contact details of at least two professional references

Please send your application to:

info.ph@fes.de

Please use the subject line:
Application – Programme Manager – [First Name] [Last Name]

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung
Philippines

Unit 2804 Discovery Centre #25 ADB Avenue, Ortigas Center 1605 Pasig City, Metro Manila Philippines

+ 63-28-6346919
info.ph(at)fes.de