logo

Policy Engagement Lead

  • Company

    Project DEEP

  • Location

    Delhi, India

  • Employment Type

    Full-Time

  • Functional Category

    Policy & Advocacy

  • Experience

    8 - 10 years

  • Date Posted

    27-Feb-2026

About Project DEEP

Project DEEP is the only civil society organization in India, focussed on cash-based policies. We aim to reshape direct cash transfers to accelerate socio-economic development for all. We combine cutting edge research with actionable solutions to maximise the impact of cash-based policies. Our two-pronged approach includes promoting evidence-based narratives (through knowledge creation and community work) and enhancing state capacities (through policy engagement).

Overview of the Role

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to work closely with the founders in building the policy engagement vertical of the organization, focusing on developing policy programs and interventions, as well as collaborating with state governments. This role requires a blend of policy expertise, program leadership, and stakeholder management, with a strong ability to translate evidence into actionable policy insights and toolkits. This leadership role requires an understanding of public policy in India, the ability to build and execute a program with state governments, and most importantly, a strong belief that cash transfers help people with choice, dignity, and the ability to carve their own path out of poverty.

Job Description

Policy Leadership & Strategy
● Lead the design and execution of Project DEEP’s policy engagement strategy at the state and national level
● Analyze the policy landscape and identify opportunities for scaling sustainable and effective UCT models through government and institutional partnerships
● Represent Project DEEP in high-level policy dialogues, consultations, and working groups

Program Design & Implementation
● Lead the design and execution of Project DEEP’s policy programs at the state and national level, including public finance, design, and evaluation
● Ensure alignment of programs with the organization’s vision of poverty eradication through cash-based interventions
● Work closely with the research team to integrate evidence into advocacy and policy briefs

Stakeholder Engagement & Partnerships
● Build and nurture relationships with government officials, development agencies, multilateral institutions, and civil society partners
● Develop strategic alliances to amplify the reach and influence of Project DEEP’s work
● Facilitate cross-learning platforms between practitioners, policymakers, and researchers

Organisation Building and Thought Leadership
● Build state-level teams, relevant to the projects run in a particular state
● Mentor and guide junior team members in policy and program functions
● Serve as a thought leader, contributing to external publications, op-eds, and forums
● Advocate for innovation in social protection systems, leveraging global best practices

Required & Preferred Qualifications

Skill

● Strategic thinker with strong execution ability.
● Collaborative leadership style with the ability to influence diverse stakeholders.
● Passion for poverty alleviation, economic justice, and evidence-based policy change.
● Entrepreneurial mindset, adaptable in fast-paced and evolving contexts.

Experience

● 8-10 years of progressive experience in policy, public administration, international development, or social protection. ● Strong track record in designing and managing policy-oriented programs with measurable outcomes. ● Deep understanding of India’s socio-economic and political landscape; experience working with government systems is highly desirable. ● Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to synthesize complex research into actionable insights. ● Demonstrated success in stakeholder engagement and coalition-building. ● Master’s degree in Public Policy, Economics, Development Studies, Political Science, or related fields.