Program Director

Job Description

Location: Vientiane, Lao PDR
Full-time | 14-month contract (with possibility of 2-month extension) | Ability to obtain working visa in Lao PDR required

• Executive program leadership position, overseeing the strategic partnerships and program team
• Opportunity to shape and drive excellence in human resource development across Lao PDR
• Mentor team members, fostering professional growth to ensure they have the skills and resources needed to excel

Contribute to a world where people, communities and the planet thrive.

Tetra Tech International Development is a leading development consulting firm working with governments, businesses, and NGOs to solve complex development challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. For more information please visit our website.

The Opportunity

The Laos Australia Institute (LAI) is Australia’s flagship investment in Human Resource Development (HRD) in Laos. With over a decade-long legacy, it is one of Australia’s most visible, successful and valued contributions to Laos’ socio-economic development.

As Program Director, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across all output areas of LAI Phase III, ensuring delivery to good practice standards and alignment with DFAT’s development priorities.

You will lead a high-performing team, manage stakeholder relationships with the Australian Government (DFAT), Government of Laos and other partners, and oversee planning, reporting, risk management, and financial oversight. This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of HRD in Laos and strengthen Australia’s development partnership with the region.

The Program: Laos-Australia Institute Phase III

LAI Phase III (2021–2026) supports the National Human Resource Development Strategy through:

• Australia Awards Scholarships and Short Courses
• HRD policy and systems strengthening
• Alumni engagement
• Capacity development and training initiatives

LAI works with six key counterpart organisations including the Ministry of Education and Sports, External Relations Committee and Personnel Committee of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, Ministry of Finance, National Academy of Politics and Public Administration, and Lao Women’s Union. Equity for women, people with disabilities, and those in remote areas is central to all program activities.

Your Role

• Provide strategic leadership and policy advice to DFAT and LAI teams
• Represent LAI and DFAT in high-level discussions with Government of Laos and development partners
• Lead performance management, staff development, and team culture
• Oversee financial management, budgeting, and compliance
• Maintain effective partnerships and stakeholder engagement
• Ensure quality program delivery, risk management, and reporting
• Support LAI governance structures, including the Program Steering Committee

About You

You are a seasoned development leader with deep experience in either human resource development, education, and/or strategic program management. You bring a collaborative leadership style, strong cultural capability, and a commitment to inclusive development. You understand ways of working with different government agencies.

You possess:

• Significant senior leadership experience in similar roles on development programs (DFAT experience preferred)
• Experience in higher education and knowledge of the Australian University system preferred
• Proven ability to lead teams, manage complex programs, and stakeholder relationships
• Strong financial, policy, and risk management skills
• Strong communication, strategic thinking, and cross-cultural competence
• Fluency in English; Lao language skills highly regarded
• Postgraduate qualifications in either international development, education, HRD, or public administration would be advantageous.

How to Apply

If this opportunity sparks your interest and you meet the requirements, click the “Apply for Job” button and submit your application before the closing date.

Your completed application will include:

• Resume
• Cover letter (max two pages) outlining your suitability for the role

For the position description please click here. Password is TetraTech2025.

Applications for this position close on 24^th August 2025, at 11:59pm AEST.

About the Organization

Why Tetra Tech International Development?

As a leading development consulting firm, Tetra Tech International Development works with people and communities to solve some of the world's most complex challenges to achieve a positive impact.

Working at Tetra Tech International Development means working within a values-led organisation that invests in flexible work environments built on trust, safety and well-being. Through unified systems, flexible and supportive workplaces, we provide the foundations required for our team to enjoy the work they do and deliver value every day. Read more about our culture, purpose and values here.

Tetra Tech International Development is an equal-opportunity employer and has a genuine commitment to diversity and inclusion. We encourage people with disability; First Nations Peoples; and people of all cultures, genders, abilities and experiences to apply.

Should you require additional support with your application, please email IDEV.HRServices@tetratech.com  or phone (08) 8375 4400.

More information