Head of NFE

We support peace and prosperity by building connections, understanding and trust between people in the UK and countries worldwide. For 90 years we have shaped brighter futures through education, arts, culture, language, and creativity.

Working with people in over 200 countries and territories, we are on the ground in more than 100 countries.

We connect. We inspire.

Role Context

Lead the design, delivery and evaluation of the British Council's Non-formal Education (NFE) portfolio in Nigeria by providing technical expertise and managing a portfolio of internally and externally funded programmes. The role ensures strategic alignment, high-quality delivery, and achievement of financial and non-financial targets while supporting the growth of the NFE portfolio.

The role sits within Cultural Engagement (CE), which delivers programmes across Arts, Education, English and research globally. Education focuses on student mobility and internationalisation, tertiary education partnerships, and Non-formal Education (NFE). This role leads the NFE strategy in Nigeria, overseeing a mixed portfolio of Grant and Partnership Fund (GPF) and British Council-funded programmes that contribute to Education priorities while embedding Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) in all aspects of programme delivery.

Main Accountabilities

Strategy & Planning

Lead the design and implementation of the NFE strategy for Nigeria, ensuring alignment with global NFE, CE, and British Council strategies. Support delivery of the global NFE portfolio and identify opportunities aligned with partner and funder priorities.

Leadership & Programme Management

Provide leadership and operational management of the Nigeria NFE team and portfolio. Ensure high-quality programme delivery, MEL (Monitoring, Evaluating and Learning), financial sustainability, and effective resource planning. Build internal capability through knowledge sharing and L&D (Learning & Development) opportunities.

Business Development & Partnerships

Lead business development and manage a sustainable pipeline of grant-funded and commercial opportunities. Build and manage strategic partnerships, develop high-quality proposals, and deliver agreed financial and impact KPIs. Negotiate and manage strategic partnerships to support programme growth and sustainability.

Commercial & Financial Management

Oversee budgets, profitability, compliance, and financial performance across the NFE portfolio. Ensure programmes are delivered on time, within budget, and in line with corporate quality standards.

Sector Leadership & External Engagement

Provide technical leadership and represent the British Council in the NFE sector. Strengthen the organisation's reputation through thought leadership, stakeholder engagement, and strategic partnerships.

EDI & Governance

Embed EDI, anti-racism, safeguarding, data privacy, and corporate compliance across all NFE activities. Foster an inclusive, accountable culture that supports wellbeing, continuous learning, and effective risk management.

Qualifications and Work Experience

Qualifications & Education

• Essential: Degree or equivalent experience; Project Management qualification
• Desirable: Recognised PPM qualification

Role Specific Skills

• Deep technical knowledge of non-formal education and ability to develop proposals in response to client/partner need
• Strong programme and project management including compliance

Important Information

• Language requirements: The British Council systems and global processes operate in English. Written and verbal proficiency in English is required.
• British Council Pay Band: 8/E
• Department: Cultural Engagement
• Contract type: 2 years (renewable)
• Working location: Nigeria
• Proof of Identity requirements/right to work in country: Candidates should ensure they have natural legal right to live and work in the country where the role is based. Visa sponsorship and relocation assistance are not provided.   
• Closing Date: 11 August 2026 (23:59 ICT)

A connected and trusted UK in a more connected and trusted world.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Statement

We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all sections of the community as we believe that a diverse workforce gives added depth to our work. The British Council is a Disability Confident Employer. The Disability Confident scheme helps challenge attitudes, increase understanding of disability and ensure staff are drawn from the widest possible pool of talent. We guarantee an interview for disabled applicants who meet the minimum role requirements. We welcome discussions about specific requirements or adjustments to enable participation and engagement in our work and activities.

Safeguarding Statement

The British Council is committed to safeguarding children, young people and adults who we work with. We believe that all children and adults everywhere in the world deserve to live in safe environments and have the right to be protected from all forms of abuse, maltreatment and exploitation as set out in article 19, UNCRC (United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child) 1989. Appointment to positions where there is direct involvement with vulnerable groups will be dependent on thorough checks being completed in line with legal requirements and with the British Council’s Safeguarding policies for Adults and Children.

If you experience any difficulties with submitting your application, please email [email protected]