Programme manager Beverage Processing

As programme manager Beverage Processing, you combine technical knowledge of processing technologies with an understanding of the commercial and quality requirements faced by SMEs in competitive and regulated markets. You bring proven experience and/or a strong affinity with the industry and understand the importance of beverage processing in adding value to agricultural raw materials and strengthening local communities. Are you ready to drive change across the broader beverage processing ecosystem, lead our community of experts and make a real impact? This is your opportunity! 

PUM is a unique NGO committed to making a positive impact on a global scale. With a network of 1,200 skilled voluntary experts, we collaborate with ambitious entrepreneurs in 26 countries and 12 programmes, sharing expertise to strengthen business ecosystems and create economic, social, and environmental value. We work closely with small and medium-sized enterprises, as well as the organisations that support them. We believe in the power of collaboration and in the magic that happens when diverse perspectives come together; Together we grow!

As programme manager you will be part of the programmes department, consisting of 12 programme managers and led by the head of programmes. You are responsible for developing programme strategies aligned with organisational goals and partnerships opportunities,, building a strong expert community, and ensuring projects are delivered successfully with lasting impact. You will translate client requests into clear project proposals, enabling effective matching between clients and experts, in close collaboration with our in-country managers and their team of representatives. Your daily activities will be varied and challenging:

• You develop and guide programme plans with clear propositions to strengthen sustainable and resilient beverage processing value chains, ensuring alignment with PUM’s goals and evolving priorities, including partnership development.

• You monitor programme developments and trends, anticipate future demand, and proactively position experts.

• You assess project requests, distinguishing between specialised technical needs and general business support, in consultation with the in-country managers.

• You translate client requests into actionable project proposals and ensure a strong match between client needs and expert skills.

• You are an ambassador for diversity, growing a strong and inclusive expert community and ensuring the right expertise is ready to meet future needs.

• You manage programme data and knowledge, capturing insights and sharing them across projects and the expert community to maximise impact and learning.

• You coordinate project planning, manage data to support efficient delivery, and contribute as a key stakeholder by leveraging your knowledge and network to support the identification and mapping of strategic partnerships.

• You ensure compliance with organisational policies and objectives in all projects.

As programme manager Beverage Processing you understand the full value chain, from raw material sourcing and primary processing to quality control, packaging and market positioning. You are familiar with products such as coffee, cocoa, fermented beverages and dairy, including hygienic milk handling, small- to medium-scale processing and cheese production. You understand themes such as food safety standards, flavour development, fermentation, shelf-life, efficient energy and water use, and supply chain coordination. You acknowledge the importance of consistent quality, professional training, sustainable production practices, and community engagement, including women and youth. 

Does this sound like you?

• You are a proactive, hands-on and strategic thinker with a Bachelor’s or Master’s working and thinking level.

• You bring 10 years of experience and/or a strong affinity with beverage processing, combined with a relevant network and a strong understanding of strategy and business planning, including management, marketing, finance and operations.

• You have a background in programme management and team leadership; experience working with volunteers is considered a plus.

• You understand the business realities faced by SMEs and organisations in diverse and often challenging environments.

• You thrive as a team player, using strong intercultural communication skills to work effectively with a diverse, international group of colleagues.

• You thrive in an organisation in growth and transition and enjoy contributing to further professionalisation.

• You are data-driven, with a strong focus on impact, quality and results, and are comfortable using digital tools, including Microsoft 365 and Dynamics.

• You are fluent in English; French or Spanish is an advantage.

• You are available for 22.5 hours per week (0.6 FTE).

Becoming a programme manager at PUM isn’t just a career move; it’s a chance to drive meaningful change. Working at a volunteer organisation like PUM offers extra fulfilment. In addition to the benefits mentioned, here’s what else awaits you: