Head of NFE Non-formal Education at British Council

Role Context

Lead the design, delivery and evaluation of the British Council's Non-formal Education (NFE) portfolio in Nigeria by providing technical expertise and managing a portfolio of internally and externally funded programmes. The role ensures strategic alignment, high-quality delivery, and achievement of financial and non-financial targets while supporting the growth of the NFE portfolio.

The role sits within Cultural Engagement (CE), which delivers programmes across Arts, Education, English and research globally. Education focuses on student mobility and internationalisation, tertiary education partnerships, and Non-formal Education (NFE). This role leads the NFE strategy in Nigeria, overseeing a mixed portfolio of Grant and Partnership Fund (GPF) and British Council-funded programmes that contribute to Education priorities while embedding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in all aspects of programme delivery.

Main Accountabilities

Strategy & Planning

Lead the design and implementation of the NFE strategy for Nigeria, ensuring alignment with global NFE, CE, and British Council strategies. Support delivery of the global NFE portfolio and identify opportunities aligned with partner and funder priorities.

Leadership & Programme Management

Provide leadership and operational management of the Nigeria NFE team and portfolio. Ensure high-quality programme delivery, MEL (Monitoring, Evaluating and Learning), financial sustainability, and effective resource planning. Build internal capability through knowledge sharing and L&D (Learning & Development) opportunities.

Business Development & Partnerships

Lead business development and manage a sustainable pipeline of grant-funded and commercial opportunities. Build and manage strategic partnerships, develop high-quality proposals, and deliver agreed financial and impact KPIs. Negotiate and manage strategic partnerships to support programme growth and sustainability.

Commercial & Financial Management

Oversee budgets, profitability, compliance, and financial performance across the NFE portfolio. Ensure programmes are delivered on time, within budget, and in line with corporate quality standards.

Sector Leadership & External Engagement

Provide technical leadership and represent the British Council in the NFE sector. Strengthen the organisation's reputation through thought leadership, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships.

EDI & Governance

• Embed EDI, anti-racism, safeguarding, data privacy, and corporate compliance across all NFE activities. Foster an inclusive, accountable culture that supports wellbeing, continuous learning, and effective risk management.

Qualifications and Work Experience

Qualifications & Education

• Essential: Degree or equivalent experience; Project Management qualification
• Desirable: Recognised PPM qualification

Role Specific Skills

• Deep technical knowledge of non-formal education and ability to develop proposals in response to client/partner need
• Strong programme and project management including compliance