Job Description Lend A Hand India is seeking an experienced Manager (Government Partnerships) to lead vocational education initiatives in Gujarat. The role involves strategic leadership, government liaison, stakeholder engagement, program implementation, policy advocacy, team management, and partnership development to strengthen vocational education under Samagra Shiksha and other government initiatives. The position requires a strong understanding of government systems, education policy, and large-scale program management. Key Responsibilities • Program Leadership & Strategy: Lead the implementation of vocational education initiatives across Gujarat, develop strategic roadmaps aligned with national education policies, and build partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, CSR organizations, and other stakeholders. • Government Liaison & Policy Advocacy: Serve as the primary point of contact with state education departments, represent LAHI in government meetings and consultations, monitor PMU activities, and provide regular reporting to senior government officials. • Stakeholder & Industry Engagement: Build strong relationships with NSDC, Sector Skill Councils, SCERT, State Education Boards, NCVET, PSSCIVE, Vocational Training Providers, and industry partners to strengthen vocational education and employment opportunities. • Program Implementation & Monitoring: Oversee project execution, manage PMU teams, establish monitoring frameworks, track program performance, and drive internships, employer engagement, and technology-enabled implementation. • Budget & Resource Management: Manage state-level budgets, optimize resource allocation, prepare official proposals, presentations, reports, and ensure efficient program documentation. • Team Leadership & Capacity Building: Lead, mentor, and strengthen project teams, coordinators, instructors, and field staff while promoting knowledge sharing, collaboration, and continuous capacity building. Requirements Requirements • Education: Master's degree in Social Work, Public Policy, Management, Education, or a related field. • Experience: 8–10 years of experience in government engagement, program implementation, project management, strategic planning, advocacy, and leading large-scale education or skill development programs. • Technical Skills: Strong understanding of government education schemes, policy frameworks, MIS systems, and proficiency in MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, and Word). • Leadership Skills: Proven experience leading large teams, managing multi-stakeholder collaborations, and implementing complex government projects. • Core Competencies: Excellent relationship management, advocacy, negotiation, analytical thinking, reporting, communication, and decision-making skills. • Language & Travel: Fluency in English and the official language of the state is preferred. Willingness to travel extensively within and outside Gujarat based on project requirements. Benefits • Lead high-impact vocational education initiatives in partnership with state governments and key education stakeholders. • Opportunity to influence education policy and contribute to large-scale systemic change across India. • Collaborate with government agencies, industry leaders, CSR partners, and educational institutions. • Competitive compensation, comprehensive employee benefits, and continuous professional development opportunities. • Be part of a mission-driven organization creating measurable impact for millions of students nationwide.