Purpose

The Pacific Programs Manager is part of a high-performing team responsible for coordinating and delivering multiple Australian Government+funded rugby programs and activities across the Pacific region. This multifaceted role requires strong project management skills and the ability to manage competing priorities across several concurrent initiatives. A strong focus on financial management, including advanced Microsoft Excel skills and experience with both large and small accounting systems, is essential. A keen interest in business intelligence tools connected with accounting systems will be beneficial.

The successful candidate will demonstrate cultural competency, stakeholder engagement expertise, and confidence in representing the organisation in public-facing settings. The role also encompasses event delivery, logistics coordination, monitoring and evaluation (M&E) support, and report preparation to ensure programs are delivered effectively, efficiently, and in alignment with strategic objectives.

Experience with program or government grant acquittals, or with similar complex financial reporting processes, is ideal.

Key Accountabilities

1. Administrative and Operational Support

• Lead the financial coordination of Pacific programs, including budget preparation, tracking, forecasting, and reporting across multiple projects.
• Manage payment processing, invoicing, and reconciliation in line with organisational policies and donor requirements.
• Maintain accurate financial and administrative records to ensure transparency and compliance with accounting and audit standards.
• Arrange travel, accommodation, logistics, and itineraries for staff, consultants, and visiting delegations.
• Support the planning and delivery of events, workshops, and meetings across the Pacific region.

2. Program Management

• Assist in planning, implementing, and managing multiple concurrent programs across the Pacific region.
• Monitor timelines, deliverables, and milestones to ensure high-quality delivery and compliance with donor or partner requirements.
• Coordinate activities with local, regional, and international partners, including NGOs, government agencies, and sports organisations.

2. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Assist in the development and application of M&E tools and frameworks.
• Support the collection, analysis, and synthesis of program data to help assess impact, performance, and progress.
• Contribute to the preparation of progress updates, analysis, and financial reports for internal and external stakeholders.

3. Stakeholder Engagement

• Foster strong relationships with internal teams, implementing partners, and government counterparts.
• Engage in cross-cultural communication across the Pacific, ensuring respectful and inclusive engagement.
• Represent Rugby Australia in meetings, events, and program briefings as required.
• Support the promotion of Rugby Australia’s values and strategic objectives through effective partnerships.

Capabilities, Experience & Qualification Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration, project management, accounting, international relations/development, or a related field, or relevant work experience.
• Experience in program or project management, preferably within an international, sporting, or government-funded context, is desired.
• Demonstrated experience in financial management, including budgeting, reporting, and grant acquittals.
• Strong proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience with accounting systems; exposure to business intelligence or data visualisation tools is essential.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage competing priorities under pressure.
• This role may require periodic travel within the Pacific region and flexibility in working hours to coordinate with stakeholders across time zones and rugby schedules.