Mary’s Meals International (MMI) is seeking a values-driven and strategic leader to join its global team as Head of Programme Quality Assurance. This senior role offers a unique opportunity to shape and strengthen programme quality across one of the world’s most impactful school feeding movements, supporting millions of children to access nutritious meals in education settings. Reporting to the Director of Programme Operations, the Head of Programme Quality Assurance will provide strategic oversight and leadership for the organisation’s global Quality Assurance (QA) function. The role is fully remote, with regular international travel to countries where Mary’s Meals operates. The Role The Head of Programme Quality Assurance plays a central role in ensuring excellence, consistency, and accountability across Mary’s Meals’ global programme portfolio. The postholder will lead the design, implementation, and continuous development of the organisation’s global quality assurance strategy, ensuring that robust, data-informed standards are embedded across programme delivery and logistics operations. The role is both strategic and operational, combining leadership of a global QA team with close collaboration across programme affiliates, partners, and internal functions. Through evidence-based learning and continuous improvement, the role supports strong stewardship, organisational learning, and alignment with the Mary’s Meals Delivery Model. Key Responsibilities The Head of Programme Quality Assurance will be responsible for: Leading the design, delivery, and evolution of Mary’s Meals’ global Programme Quality Assurance strategy, aligned with organisational priorities and programme objectives Driving continuous improvements in programme quality, effectiveness, and consistency through data analysis, evidence-based learning, and structured improvement processes Providing strategic leadership and line management to the Quality Assurance team, building a high-performing, responsive, and collaborative function Acting as a senior advisor to the Director of Programme Operations and the wider leadership team on programme quality, compliance, assurance, and risk Working closely with Programme Affiliates, Programme Partners, and cross-functional teams to ensure global quality standards are effectively adapted and applied in local contexts Overseeing the development and application of QA tools, assessment frameworks, methodologies, and reporting systems to inform decision-making and organisational change Strengthening integration between quality assurance, programme delivery, logistics, and systems to support end-to-end programme excellence Representing Mary’s Meals International in relevant external partnerships, technical working groups, and sector forums, contributing to shared learning and best practice in school feeding and programme quality About the Ideal Candidate The successful candidate will be a strategic, collaborative, and values-led leader with a strong commitment to the vision, mission, and principles of Mary’s Meals. They will bring substantial experience in quality assurance, programme delivery, performance management, or a related field within international development or other complex, multi-country operational environments. Key attributes include: Extensive knowledge of quality assurance frameworks, programme evaluation, and continuous improvement methodologies A proven track record of leading high-performing teams and influencing senior stakeholders across diverse cultural and organisational contexts Strong analytical capability, with confidence in using data and evidence to inform decisions and drive improvement Excellent relationship-building, communication, and coaching skills, with the ability to inspire, develop, and support others A collaborative approach that balances global standards with local realities and operational needs About Mary’s Meals International Mary’s Meals is a global movement united by a simple but powerful vision: that every child receives a nutritious daily meal in a place of education. Today, more than three million children benefit from Mary’s Meals programmes each day, transforming lives through improved access to food and education. The organisation is grounded in respect for the dignity of every person and family, a belief in the innate goodness of people, and a strong commitment to responsible stewardship of resources. Safeguarding is central to Mary’s Meals’ values and operations, and all team members are expected to uphold the highest standards in protecting children and communities. Salary and Benefits The advertised salary for UK-based candidates is £51,877 per annum plus benefits. Mary’s Meals operates a consistent global pay philosophy, with location-adjusted salaries applied across countries. Candidates based outside the UK are encouraged to contact jobs.mmi@marysmeals.org for further information. Benefits include: 34 days annual leave (including bank holidays), increasing annually to a maximum of 39 days, with the option to purchase additional leave Flexible working arrangements Employee Assistance Programme Life assurance Pension scheme Additional Information This role involves regular international travel and includes regulated work with children. The successful candidate will be required to register with the Protected Vulnerable Group (PVG) Scheme or a local equivalent prior to commencing employment. Mary’s Meals International is committed to safe recruitment practices and compliance with applicable data protection laws. How to Apply Candidates who are inspired by Mary’s Meals’ mission and values are invited to apply by submitting: A CV A short covering note (no more than one page) outlining suitability for the role and motivation to work with Mary’s Meals International The closing date for applications is Thursday, 19 February 2026. Applications may be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the organisation reserves the right to close the vacancy early. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization seeking a Head of Programs. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.