Head of Program Management (all genders)
We contribute to education, culture and environmental protection
We advance education, foster access to art and culture, and protect the environment. Through world-class research and strategic philanthropy, the Hasso Plattner Foundation accelerates the adoption of digital technologies and supports initiatives with lasting social impact
In 1998, Hasso Plattner founded the Hasso Plattner Institute for Digital Engineering (HPI), marking his first significant philanthropic contribution. After signing the Giving Pledge (initiated by Bill and Melinda Gates and Warren Buffet), he established the foundation in 2015.
The Hasso Plattner Foundation’s main office is in Potsdam, Germany.
A career at the Hasso Plattner Foundation can offer you
Purpose – You will be working for one of the worlds largest foundations (by endowment) and will have the opportunity to actively shape our philanthropic activities and operations
Personal growth – We are a fast growing organization looking for excellent talent. You will be working directly with high level executives and senior stakeholders at our projects and the Foundation’s organs and you will have plenty of opportunities to grow into more senior roles
Agility – Our organization is characterized by flat hierarchies, motivated and driven teams and a non-bureaucratic environment
The position
As Head of Program Management, you will play a central role in shaping and delivering our philanthropic mission. You will develop and execute strategies across our focus areas, driving measurable impact in collaboration with external stakeholders, our core team and our executive board.
You will lead the Program Management Team, coordinate cross-functional initiatives, and ensure clarity, quality, and alignment throughout every stage of execution. Your work will directly contribute to the success of our projects and the advancement of our Foundation’s values.
Your key responsibilities
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Lead and grow the Program Management Team, fostering excellence and collaboration.
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Oversee strategy development and execution for all charitable activities.
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Oversee and facilitate the scaling of existing and new projects.
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Provide strategic guidance to project leadership teams, acting as a trusted sparring partner.
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Ensure delivery of high-quality materials, internal reports, and board-ready presentations.
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Drive Oversee the implementation of impact measurement and reporting systems tailored to our needs.
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Improve internal processes to allow HPF to scale its operations.
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Ensure that HPF’s charitable projects are staffed with highly skilled and motivated executives.
What we are looking for
- Excellent academic track record from a leading university.
- Master’s degree required; PhD or STEM background are a plus.
- 5–8 years of experience leading complex, international projects in high-performing teams.
- Proven leadership skills with experience managing teams. Leadership experience in an international philanthropic organization is a plus.
- Exceptional organizational skills, structured working style, and clear communication.
- Highly driven, committed to excellence, and adaptable to new challenges.
- Outstanding written and spoken German and English.
What else do we offer
- Competitive compensation package
- Support to pursue professional training
- Multi-day team events
- Public transport ticket
- State-of-the-art IT equipment
- Working in a beautiful office in Potsdam with a lake view
- Free lunch, fruits, drinks, excellent coffee, and opportunities for outdoor sports activities
To apply
We look forward to receiving your application (CV, diplomas, references) compiled as one PDF document with your salary expectations and earliest entry date.