Application Guide
How to Apply for Program Manager, Water Security & Climate Adaptation
at Aga Khan Development Network
🏢 About Aga Khan Development Network
The Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN) is a unique network of private, non-denominational development agencies working to improve living conditions and opportunities in developing countries, with a focus on Asia and Africa. Founded by His Highness the Aga Khan, AKDN operates across social, economic, and cultural dimensions with a long-term, multi-generational approach to development, making it distinct from typical NGOs or government agencies. Working at AKDN means contributing to sustainable, community-driven development with deep local partnerships and a holistic approach to poverty alleviation.
About This Role
As Program Manager for Water Security & Climate Adaptation in India, you'll lead initiatives addressing critical water scarcity and climate resilience challenges in vulnerable communities. This role involves designing, implementing, and monitoring water management projects while integrating climate adaptation strategies across AKDN's multi-sectoral programs. You'll directly impact communities facing water stress by developing sustainable solutions that balance environmental, social, and economic needs in the context of climate change.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing field reports from water projects in rural communities, coordinating with technical teams on climate-resilient water infrastructure designs, and meeting with government officials to align programs with state water policies. You'd likely spend time analyzing climate data to inform adaptation strategies while also planning community consultations to ensure local needs and knowledge guide project implementation.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Aga Khan Development Network Is Looking For
- Has 7+ years of experience in water resource management, climate adaptation, or rural development in South Asia, with demonstrated success in community-based projects
- Possesses technical expertise in water security (WASH, irrigation, watershed management) AND climate adaptation strategies (disaster risk reduction, resilient agriculture, ecosystem-based approaches)
- Has managed multi-stakeholder projects involving government agencies, local communities, and international partners in India or similar contexts
- Demonstrates understanding of AKDN's integrated development approach and ability to connect water programs with health, education, and economic development initiatives
📝 Tips for Applying to Aga Khan Development Network
Highlight specific experience with water projects in India's climate-vulnerable regions (drought-prone areas, flood zones, or coastal communities)
Demonstrate understanding of AKDN's multi-input area development approach by showing how you've integrated water programs with other sectors
Include measurable outcomes from past projects (e.g., 'increased water access for X households,' 'reduced climate vulnerability in Y communities')
Reference AKDN's existing water initiatives in India (like the Aga Khan Rural Support Programme) to show you've done your homework
Emphasize both technical water management skills AND community engagement experience, as AKDN prioritizes local ownership
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience designing water security programs that specifically address climate change impacts in Indian contexts', "How you've successfully engaged diverse stakeholders (communities, government, technical experts) in water management projects", "Your understanding of AKDN's development philosophy and how your approach aligns with their long-term, integrated model", 'Specific examples of balancing technical water solutions with social, cultural, and economic considerations in vulnerable communities']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → AKDN's multi-input area development approach and how water programs fit within their integrated model in India
- → The Aga Khan Rural Support Programme (India) and their existing water and climate initiatives
- → India's National Water Policy and climate adaptation frameworks relevant to water security
- → AKDN's partnerships with Indian government agencies and local institutions in the water sector
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on technical water engineering without demonstrating understanding of community engagement and social dimensions
- Presenting generic climate adaptation knowledge without specific examples from Indian or South Asian contexts
- Overlooking AKDN's unique development philosophy and treating them like a typical international NGO
- Failing to connect water security with broader development outcomes (health, livelihoods, education)
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Aga Khan Development Network!