About SDSN

The UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN) has been operating since 2012 under the auspices of the UN Secretary-General. SDSN mobilizes global scientific and technological expertise to promote practical solutions for sustainable development, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Paris Climate Agreement. We aim to accelerate joint learning and promote integrated approaches that address the interconnected economic, social, and environmental challenges confronting the world.

SDSN works closely with United Nations agencies, multilateral financing institutions, the private sector, and civil society. It is directed by Professor Jeffrey D. Sachs and operates through offices in New York, Paris, and Kuala Lumpur.

About GBA-ASEAN Initiative

The GBA-ASEAN Initiative (GAI), proposed by the UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network (SDSN), is an action-oriented program to strengthen trade, finance, technology, and policy linkages between the Greater Bay Area of China (GBA) and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). China and ASEAN are strong trading partners within the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and strong investment partners in the Belt and Road Initiative. This program aims to deepen those relationships for the mutual benefit of China, ASEAN, and the rest of the world economy.

Position Summary

SDSN is seeking a Program Manager to manage the work of GBA-ASEAN Initiative. The Manager will report to the Head of Policy and Research for Asia and SIDS. The position will serve as a key manager working at the intersection of SDSN, the GBA and ASEAN government, and key partners across the globe. This Program Manager will have the opportunity to grow fundamental program management skills and tools; build a professional network of mentors and contacts; and be actively involved with discussions exploring some of the most pressing questions around regional collaboration, governance and peace.

Principal Responsibilities

Coordinate planning and communications for internal and external communications related to the core activities of the GBA-ASEAN Initiative.
Manage program workplan on an ongoing basis
Provide technical inputs in different aspects of the project, including publications and strategy
Support the drafting, editing, design and layout of deliverables in coordination with the rest of the team
Coordinate outreach activities to relevant partners to interconnect the with key regional agencies and initiatives related to the GAI.
Coordinating all GAI meetings, agenda, meeting notes, and corresponding with program teams as materials are drafted
Managing and organizing research deliverables, gaining legal consent for use of images and figures, copyediting, and supporting the design layout of the reports/briefings
Maintain GBA-ASEAN website, including writing and editing content, and coordinating external communications (email campaigns, newsletters, etc.) with the SDSN Communications team
Research and writing support for GAI’s substantive deliverables
Support and execute event-and publication-specific outreach strategies
Assist in identifying and applying to funding opportunities to support the longevity of the Program
Supporting recruitment efforts to bring in new members as needed

Qualifications, Education, and Experience

Master’s degree in social science
Familiarity with the Greater Bay Area, ASEAN, USA and sustainability concepts
Professional fluency in English and Chinese required (written and spoken)
Minimum of 3 years of relevant professional experience in sustainability and other social science subjects.
Highly organized and detail-oriented
Strong program management skills and ability to work in fast-paced environment
Accel at working independently in high-pressure environment alongside high-caliber experts and government leader
Exceptional writing, editing, and oral communications skills required
Experience communicating with and working alongside high-level experts

Important Information

Location: This position will be based remotely in the United States according to SDSN Hybrid Work Policy

Travel: Requires domestic and/or international travel, subject to SDSN’s travel policy.

Contract Length: Feb 1 – Dec 30, 2026

Salary: USD 60,000 – 100,000

Benefits: SDSN offers generous leave allowances and flexible, hybrid work policy. SDSN team members are given the opportunity to follow some of the most thought-provoking discussions on sustainability. In their work, team members get the opportunity to meet and exchange with some of the world’s greatest leaders in sustainable development – professors, economists, bestselling authors, educators, and academics. In addition to this, SDSN team is composed of brilliant, dynamic, sustainable development professionals that come from different countries and backgrounds. With such unique exposure and environment, each member of SDSN can learn and grow while doing the work they love and contribute with a positive impact.

Reports to: Philo Wang, Head of Policy and Research for Asia and SIDS

Work authorization: SDSN does not sponsor visas, and therefore applicants must have proper authorization to work in the United States. SDSN is required by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to secure verification of eligibility to work in the United States.

SDSN is an Equal Opportunity Employer

‍SDSN provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to unlawful considerations of race, color, creed, religion, gender, sex, national origin, ancestry, citizenship status, genetic information, military or veteran status, age, and physical or mental disability, or any other classification protected by applicable local, state, or federal laws.

Application Process

‍To apply, please submit a cover letter and a CV on HR Partner.

Sustainable Development Solutions Network

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Program Manager, GBA-ASEAN Initiative