The Project Manager, GROW Project vacancy announced by the International Labour Organization (ILO) presents an exceptional opportunity for experienced development professionals seeking to advance their careers in international development.
The Project Manager, GROW Project role is based in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and offers the chance to lead transformative initiatives focused on sustainable livelihoods, climate resilience, gender equality, and rural economic development.
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For professionals with expertise in development cooperation, agricultural value chains, climate adaptation, and inclusive economic growth, this Project Manager, GROW Project position represents a meaningful career opportunity.
Overview of the Project Manager, GROW Project Vacancy
Position Details
- Position: Project Manager, GROW Project
- Grade: P4
- Organization: International Labour Organization (ILO)
- Department: Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific
- Organization Unit: CO-Colombo
- Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka
- Contract Type: Fixed-Term
- Duration: One Year
- Vacancy Number: DC/COLOMBO/2026/02
- Job ID: 13661
- Publication Date: 12 June 2026
- Application Deadline: 26 June 2026 (Midnight Sri Lanka Time)
The Project Manager, GROW Project vacancy is open to both internal and external candidates.
Why the Project Manager, GROW Project Matters
Sri Lanka has experienced multiple crises over recent years, including:
- The COVID-19 pandemic,
- Economic and financial instability,
- Climate-related disasters,
- Cyclone Ditwah,
- Global geopolitical impacts affecting livelihoods.
These events have disproportionately affected vulnerable populations, particularly in Sri Lanka’s Northern Province.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will play a critical role in helping communities recover, strengthen resilience, and create sustainable economic opportunities.
What Is the GROW Project?
The GROW Project is an ILO initiative designed to support sustainable livelihoods and inclusive development.
The project focuses on reducing poverty and strengthening resilience among vulnerable communities by promoting decent work and sustainable economic growth.
Core Objectives of the GROW Project
1. Creating Inclusive Employment Opportunities
The project seeks to:
- Develop new business opportunities,
- Support fishing communities,
- Empower farming households,
- Increase access to markets,
- Improve income stability.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will oversee these interventions.
2. Promoting Gender Equality
Women-headed households often face greater vulnerabilities.
The project therefore prioritizes:
- Women’s economic empowerment,
- Inclusive participation,
- Community engagement,
- Reduction of inequalities.
3. Strengthening Climate Resilience
Climate adaptation measures include:
- Smart agriculture practices,
- Improved land management,
- Water resource management,
- Drought preparedness initiatives,
- Flood resilience mechanisms.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will ensure these strategies are effectively implemented.
Key Responsibilities of the Project Manager, GROW Project
Project Management Responsibilities
The selected candidate will:
- Lead overall project implementation;
- Ensure timely delivery of outputs;
- Monitor progress and evaluate results;
- Maintain compliance with ILO procedures;
- Align activities with strategic objectives.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will ensure that project outcomes meet quality, cost, and timeline expectations.
Financial Management
Budget oversight is a major component of this role.
Responsibilities include:
- Managing project funds;
- Monitoring expenditures;
- Ensuring accountability;
- Maintaining financial transparency;
- Adhering to ILO financial policies.
Strong budget management skills are essential for the Project Manager, GROW Project.
Human Resource Leadership
The successful candidate will supervise multidisciplinary teams consisting of:
- National experts,
- International consultants,
- Administrative personnel,
- Technical specialists.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will oversee recruitment and performance management processes.
Technical Leadership
Technical advisory duties include:
- Supporting government ministries;
- Advising key stakeholders;
- Providing strategic recommendations;
- Facilitating policy discussions.
The Project Manager, GROW Project will serve as a trusted technical leader.
Partnership Development
Partnership building is central to project success.
The role requires collaboration with:
- Government institutions,
- Employers’ organizations,
- Workers’ organizations,
- NGOs,
- Donor agencies,
- Community groups,
- United Nations agencies.
The Project Manager, GROW Project must demonstrate outstanding networking abilities.
Knowledge Management
The selected candidate will also:
- Prepare reports,
- Maintain information systems,
- Disseminate project findings,
- Develop learning materials,
- Coordinate workshops.
Effective communication remains a defining characteristic of the Project Manager, GROW Project role.
Required Qualifications
Education Requirements
Applicants should possess:
Preferred Qualification
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in fields such as:
- Development Economics,
- Agricultural Enterprise,
- Value Chain Development,
- Climate Change Mitigation,
- Gender Studies,
- Related disciplines.
Alternative Qualification
Candidates holding a bachelor’s degree may qualify if they possess an additional two years of relevant professional experience.
Experience Requirements
To qualify for the Project Manager, GROW Project, candidates must demonstrate
Mandatory Experience
- At least seven years of professional experience;
- Experience managing development cooperation programmes;
- International development exposure.
Preferred Experience
Additional strengths include:
- Entrepreneurship initiatives;
- Local economic development programmes;
- Climate resilience projects;
- Rural development interventions.
Significant Advantage
Previous work experience in Sri Lanka is highly desirable.
Essential Skills and Competencies
The ideal Project Manager, GROW Project candidate should possess:
Leadership Skills
- Team management;
- Strategic decision-making;
- Delegation abilities;
- Staff development expertise.
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Communication Skills
- Report writing;
- Presentation abilities;
- Stakeholder engagement;
- Negotiation techniques.
Strategic Thinking
- Programme design;
- Problem-solving;
- Innovation;
- Results orientation.
Interpersonal Competencies
- Cultural sensitivity;
- Gender-responsive approaches;
- Collaborative mindset;
- Integrity and transparency.
These competencies distinguish successful candidates for the Project Manager, GROW Project position.
Benefits of Working with the ILO
Joining the International Labour Organization offers several professional advantages.
Career Benefits
- International development experience;
- Exposure to UN systems;
- High-level stakeholder engagement;
- Leadership opportunities;
- Technical specialization growth.
Professional Development
Employees benefit from:
- Knowledge exchange;
- Multicultural collaboration;
- Global networking opportunities;
- Continuous learning experiences.
Although technical cooperation appointments do not automatically lead to permanent employment, the experience gained through the Project Manager, GROW Project can significantly enhance future career prospects.
Why You Should Apply
If you are passionate about:
- Sustainable livelihoods,
- Climate resilience,
- Gender equality,
- Inclusive economic growth,
- Rural development,
- International cooperation,
then the Project Manager, GROW Project position may be the ideal next step in your professional journey.
This opportunity allows experienced professionals to contribute directly to improving the lives of vulnerable communities while advancing the principles of decent work.
Application Process
Candidates must submit their applications through the official ILO recruitment platform.
Applicants shortlisted for the next stages may be invited to participate in:
- Written assessments,
- Technical evaluations,
- Interviews conducted virtually or in person.
The ILO maintains a zero-tolerance approach toward fraud and does not charge any fees during recruitment.
Interested candidates should ensure that applications are submitted before the deadline.
Final Thoughts
The Project Manager, GROW Project vacancy stands out as one of the most impactful international development opportunities available in 2026. By leading sustainable livelihood initiatives in Sri Lanka, the successful candidate will contribute to economic recovery, climate resilience, and social inclusion.
For professionals with strong project management expertise and a commitment to transformative development, the Project Manager, GROW Project offers an exceptional chance to create lasting change while building an influential international career.
