Program Manager at the Sustainability Impact Accelerator

Program Manager at the Sustainability Impact Accelerator

About NIR

At NIR, you will be part of a purpose-driven organisation where Swedish business expertise meets international development cooperation. Since 1960, we have brought together leading companies, public-sector actors, development partners and financial institutions to create better conditions for responsible business in complex markets.

Our work offers a unique opportunity to contribute to practical, long-term impact in low- and middle-income countries while strengthening Swedish companies’ ability to navigate global opportunities, risks and responsibilities.

Position: Program Manager - Sustainability Impact Accelerator

Join the Sustainability Impact Accelerator, one of our flagship initiatives, as a Program Manager supporting partners in low- and middle-income countries to implement and scale sustainable climate infrastructure projects. The Accelerator provides tailored capacity development support to help partners address pressing environmental and social issues in critical infrastructure projects in railways, public transport, renewable energy, transmission, waste management, digital networks and other infrastructure sectors.

You will bring solid project management, technical and sustainability skills. Experience and technical expertise in digitalization, transport or energy are significant advantages as we expand our project portfolio in these sectors. You will manage a portfolio of projects and report to the Program Director. The role requires international travel several times a year.

The Accelerator is funded by Sida and follows the agency’s guidelines.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and manage relationships with international partners, NIR members, Team Sweden and other government agencies, among others.
• Assess sustainability opportunities, risks and capacity development needs through visits to partner countries.
• Design, procure, and coordinate tailormade technical advisory and capacity development programs for partners.
• Monitor and report on project progress, ensuring alignment with strategic goals, budget targets and agreed outcomes.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate best practices and innovative approaches into project activities.
• Collaborate with NIR member companies to improve business conditions and leverage private sector engagement for development.
• Ensure effective communication and knowledge sharing across all program components.

Qualifications

• Academic degree in Civil Engineering, Economics or Social Sciences, or a related relevant degree, with a focus on transport, energy and sustainability.
• At least five years of relevant work experience, with a proven track record in project management or a similar role. Experience in the transport or energy sectors is an advantage. Experience applying international lender standards in these sectors, IFC Performance Standards, UN Guiding Principles and related standards is also an advantage.
• Demonstrated experience in project management and working in international development contexts.
• Required: professional fluency in English and proficiency in Swedish. An advantage: proficiency in French, Spanish, Portuguese or Arabic.
• Ability to develop and manage budgets, reports and strategic plans, supported by strong analytical skills.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
• Passion for sustainable development, with strong integrity regarding human rights, environmental protection, and labor rights.
• Ability to convey NIR’s core values in the daily work, including respect and trust.

What We Offer

• An opportunity to contribute to sustainable development and improved business conditions in low- and middle-income countries through a key development cooperation program with global impact.
• A collaborative and supportive work environment within a dedicated and passionate team.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible working hours with the option to work remotely part of the week.

If you are a proactive and motivated professional with a passion for sustainability and international development, we encourage you to apply for this exciting role.

How to Apply

Apply by 22 November 2026 by submitting your CV and a cover letter detailing your qualifications and experience to recruitment@nir.se. We review applications and conduct interviews on a rolling basis, so we encourage you to apply early.

Join us at the International Council of Swedish Industry and be part of a team making a meaningful difference in the world!

International Council of Swedish Industry (NIR) www.nir.se

Tel: +46 8 783 00 50 Klarabergsviadukten 70, 10301 Stockholm