Application Guide
How to Apply for Programme Finance Manager
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 quality of life in developing countries, particularly in Asia and Africa. As part of the Aga Khan's vision, AKDN operates across social, economic, and cultural sectors with a focus on sustainable development and pluralism, making it distinct from typical corporate or NGO environments.
About This Role
As Programme Finance Manager at AKDN UK, this role likely involves managing financial aspects of international development programmes, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, and providing financial oversight for projects across multiple countries. The position is impactful as it directly supports AKDN's mission by ensuring financial sustainability and accountability for programmes that improve lives in developing regions.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing financial reports from country programmes, coordinating with programme managers on budget revisions, preparing donor financial reports, and ensuring compliance with both AKDN policies and donor requirements. You'd likely engage with colleagues across different AKDN agencies and geographies to support financial management of development initiatives.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Aga Khan Development Network Is Looking For
- Experience in programme finance within international development, humanitarian, or non-profit sectors, preferably with multi-donor funding (e.g., DFID, EU, UN agencies)
- Strong knowledge of financial management for development programmes, including budgeting, reporting, and compliance with institutional donor regulations
- Ability to work across cultures and geographies, with sensitivity to AKDN's focus on Asia and Africa
- Familiarity with AKDN's integrated development approach or similar holistic development models
📝 Tips for Applying to Aga Khan Development Network
Explicitly highlight experience with institutional donors common in development (e.g., FCDO, EU, World Bank) in your CV
Demonstrate understanding of AKDN's multi-sectoral approach by mentioning relevant sectors like health, education, or economic development
Tailor your application to show alignment with AKDN's values of pluralism, self-reliance, and quality of life improvement
If you have regional experience in Asia or Africa, emphasize this as AKDN primarily operates in these regions
Show how you've managed financial aspects of programmes with complex reporting requirements across multiple countries
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
["Your understanding of AKDN's unique integrated development model and how programme finance supports it", 'Specific examples of managing finances for development programmes with institutional donors', 'Experience working in multicultural environments and managing financial aspects across different country contexts', 'How your skills contribute to financial sustainability and accountability in development work']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → AKDN's integrated development approach and how different agencies (e.g., Aga Khan Foundation, Aga Khan University) work together
- → AKDN's geographic focus areas and key sectors (health, education, economic development, culture)
- → The Aga Khan's vision for development and how it differs from other development models
- → AKDN's partnerships with institutional donors and how they fund programmes
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with only corporate finance experience without demonstrating understanding of development sector financial management
- Not showing awareness of AKDN's specific development philosophy and approach
- Failing to provide concrete examples of managing programme finances in international contexts
📅 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!