Adviser – Programmes (Embassy Jobs) – Embassy of Iceland in Kampala

Job Overview

The Embassy of Iceland in Kampala is seeking a motivated and experienced Adviser – Programmes to strengthen its development cooperation portfolio in Uganda. This role sits at the heart of the Embassy’s mission to support socio‑economic progress, deepen bilateral ties, and assist Icelandic nationals. The successful candidate will work closely with the Senior Adviser Programmes and the Head of Cooperation to ensure that planned activities are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards.

Based in Kampala, the Adviser – Programmes will provide technical and operational support across a range of sectors including education, health, agriculture, and governance. The position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to Iceland’s flagship development initiatives while gaining valuable experience in international diplomacy and programme management. The role is full‑time and reports directly to the Senior Adviser Programmes.

Key Responsibilities

One of the primary duties is to contribute to the Embassy’s strategic planning, annual work plan, and programme development processes. This involves analysing country‑level data, consulting with partner districts, and aligning activities with Iceland’s development strategy. The Adviser – Programmes will help shape the direction of future interventions and ensure that they are responsive to Ugandan priorities.

The role includes supporting partner districts and multi‑bi partners in the planning, coordination, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of programme and project activities. This entails facilitating workshops, reviewing work plans, and providing technical guidance to ensure that interventions are well‑designed and effectively executed. The Adviser – Programmes acts as a liaison between the Embassy and implementing partners.

Regular field visits to programme locations are a core responsibility. During these visits, the Adviser – Programmes monitors implementation progress, verifies compliance with approved plans and budgets, and identifies any challenges that may affect delivery. Findings are documented in timely reports that include clear recommendations for corrective action.

Monitoring district‑level activities to ensure they are implemented in accordance with approved plans, budgets, policies, and standard operating procedures is another key task. The Adviser – Programmes works alongside the Senior Adviser Programmes and the Head of Cooperation to track expenditures, assess outputs, and verify that results are being achieved as intended.

Supporting the monitoring of programme performance and ensuring that planned outputs and outcomes are achieved is also essential. This involves analysing performance indicators, preparing progress updates for senior management, and contributing to lessons‑learned exercises that inform future programme design.

Qualifications & Experience

Candidates should hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as international development, public administration, economics, or a related social science. A master’s degree in development studies, project management, or a similar discipline is highly desirable and will be considered an advantage.

A minimum of three years of professional experience in programme management, monitoring and evaluation, or development cooperation is required. Experience working with multilateral donors, NGOs, or government agencies in Uganda or other East African contexts will be viewed favorably.

Strong analytical skills are essential, including the ability to interpret data, prepare concise reports, and develop evidence‑based recommendations. Proficiency with monitoring and evaluation frameworks, results‑based management tools, and data analysis software such as Excel, STATA, or R is expected.

Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities are required to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and development partners. Fluency in English is mandatory; knowledge of a local Ugandan language is an added benefit.

The Adviser – Programmes must demonstrate a high level of integrity, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to the principles of transparency and accountability. The ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to changing circumstances is crucial for success in this role.

Benefits & Perks

The Embassy of Iceland in Kampala offers a competitive remuneration package that reflects the international nature of the work and the cost of living in Kampala. In addition to a attractive monthly salary, the position includes a housing allowance to assist with accommodation expenses in the city.

Transportation support is provided, either through a monthly transport stipend or access to a pool vehicle for official duties, ensuring that staff can travel conveniently to field sites and meetings. A daily lunch allowance is also available to help cover meal costs during workdays.

Comprehensive health insurance coverage is offered, covering inpatient and outpatient care for the employee and their immediate dependents. The Embassy also provides access to wellness programmes and annual medical check‑ups to promote staff wellbeing.

Generous leave entitlements include annual leave, sick leave, and maternity/paternity leave in accordance with Ugandan labour regulations and Icelandic foreign service policies. Opportunities for professional development are encouraged, including sponsorship for short courses, workshops, and conferences relevant to programme management and development cooperation.

Employees benefit from a supportive multicultural work environment, exposure to international diplomatic practices, and the chance to contribute to meaningful development outcomes that improve the lives of Ugandan communities.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application through the Ugandan Jobline portal. Please click the link below to access the application form and follow the instructions provided. Ensure that your curriculum vitae, cover letter, and copies of academic and professional certificates are attached before the closing date.

Apply here

The deadline for applications is 9 August 2026. Late submissions will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment, which may include a written test and an interview.

About the Company

The Embassy of Iceland in Kampala was established in 2004, building on a development cooperation relationship that began between Iceland and Uganda in 2000. As part of the Icelandic Foreign Service, the Embassy’s mandate is to promote Uganda’s socio‑economic development, strengthen bilateral relations, and safeguard the interests of Icelandic citizens residing or traveling in Uganda.

Iceland follows a programme‑based approach at the district level, focusing on sectors such as education, health, agriculture, and good governance. The Embassy works closely with Ugandan ministries, local governments, civil society organisations, and other development partners to deliver results that are sustainable and inclusive.

With a committed team of diplomats, development specialists, and support staff, the Embassy of Iceland in Kampala continues to be a trusted partner in Uganda’s development journey, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between the two nations.

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