.png)
Country Director – AKAH Pakistan Job in Islamabad
Country Director – Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH), Islamabad, Pakistan Today Latest Jobs 2026
Are you a seasoned development leader with expertise in sustainable infrastructure and community resilience? The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) is looking for a visionary Country Director to lead its Pakistan operations from Islamabad. This pivotal role offers an opportunity to steer strategic programs that build safer, climate-resilient, and sustainable communities.
Organization Overview
The Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) is part of the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), a respected global development network working across sectors such as health, education, and infrastructure. AKAH focuses on strengthening community resilience by improving living environments, promoting climate-smart construction, and enhancing disaster preparedness. It collaborates with governments, donors, and local partners to create solutions that protect lives, improve quality of life, and support long-term sustainability.
Job Details Table
| Job Title | Company | Location | Employment Type | Salary | Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country Director | Aga Khan Agency for Habitat (AKAH) | Islamabad, Pakistan | Full-Time / Leadership | Competitive & Attractive | 18 January 2026 |
Role Summary
As Country Director, you will lead AKAH’s mission in Pakistan, overseeing strategic planning, program implementation, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement. You will drive sustainable infrastructure and urban resilience initiatives, ensuring high-quality delivery and alignment with national development goals.
This leadership role blends program strategy, operational oversight, partnership building, and team development to create meaningful, long-lasting impact in the communities AKAH serves.
Key Responsibilities
You will handle wide-ranging strategic and managerial duties, including:
Strategic & Program Leadership
- Lead AKAH Pakistan’s strategy in line with national development priorities and AKDN goals.
- Guide program design, planning, and execution across built environment, infrastructure, and climate resilience initiatives.
- Ensure high quality, technical rigor, and integration of international best practices across projects.
Operational and Financial Oversight
- Oversee budgeting, resource allocation, and financial management to maintain compliance and efficiency.
- Strengthen operational systems including safety, procurement, and risk mitigation.
- Promote performance standards and continuous improvement across teams.
Stakeholder Engagement & Representation
- Build strong relationships with government agencies, donors, partner organizations, and community leaders.
- Represent AKAH in national forums, technical groups, and discussions that influence policy and resource mobilization.
- Maintain open communication with AKDN units and external partners.
Team Leadership
- Lead, mentor, and empower a multidisciplinary team of engineers, technical staff, and support professionals.
- Foster a culture of excellence, learning, and ethical conduct.
- Ensure succession planning and talent development across departments.
Required Qualifications & Skills
To qualify for this senior leadership position, you should have:
- Educational Background: A bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Construction Management, or a related built environment field. A Master’s degree is preferred.
- Professional Experience: 12–15 years of progressively responsible experience in infrastructure or built environment development programs.
- Leadership Credentials: Proven senior leadership experience managing large teams, complex portfolios, and multi-million-dollar programs.
- Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of climate-resilient design, sustainable infrastructure, and community development frameworks.
- Stakeholder Management: Demonstrated ability to build relationships with government bodies, community stakeholders, donors, and development partners.
Preferred / Bonus Skills
Candidates with these additional qualifications will stand out:
- Experience working with international development networks or NGOs.
- Certifications in green building standards (e.g., LEED, EDGE).
- Formal project management credentials such as PMP.
- Familiarity with Pakistan’s regulatory and development context.
Salary & Benefits
The Country Director role offers a competitive salary and benefits package designed to attract top leadership talent. Compensation may include:
- Attractive base salary
- Health and medical benefits
- Retirement or pension support
- Professional development allowances
- Housing or relocation assistance (if applicable)
Details are typically discussed with shortlisted candidates during later stages of the recruitment process.
How to Apply
Follow these steps when submitting your application:
- Prepare Your CV: Ensure it highlights your leadership experience in infrastructure or development programs.
- Write a Strong Cover Letter: Explain why you are suitable for this leadership position.
- Submit Online: Use the organization’s careers portal or application link indicated in the job advertisement.
- Apply Before Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted by 18 January 2026.
Apply early as review and selection may begin before the deadline.
Interview Tips for This Leadership Role
To increase your chances of success:
- Demonstrate Strategic Vision: Share examples of program strategy you have led.
- Showcase Leadership: Highlight cases where you steered teams through complex challenges.
- Discuss Partnerships: Explain how you’ve built relationships with donors, government agencies, and community groups.
- Highlight Results: Use data or examples to show measurable impact from your past work.
- Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Ask about organizational priorities, leadership expectations, and team structure.
Career Growth & Related Opportunities
Success in this role can open doors to other senior positions such as:
- Regional Director or Country Head roles
- Senior Infrastructure Program Manager
- Strategic Development Advisor
- Climate Resilience Specialist
- Executive Leadership roles within global development networks
This position can be a stepping stone to international leadership roles.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the main responsibility of the Country Director?
To lead AKAH’s strategic, operational, and programmatic efforts in Pakistan.
2. Where is the job located?
Islamabad, Pakistan.
3. What degree is preferred for this role?
A degree in engineering or built environment; Master’s is an advantage.
4. How many years of experience are required?
Approximately 12–15 years of relevant leadership experience.
5. Is international experience necessary?
Experience with international programs is preferred but not always mandatory.
6. Does the job involve field visits?
Yes — regular field engagements are part of program oversight.
7. What skills help in stakeholder engagement?
Strong communication, negotiation, and diplomacy skills.
8. Will I manage staff directly?
Yes — leading multidisciplinary teams is central to the role.
9. Are there professional development benefits?
Most senior roles include opportunities for training and growth.
10. Can I apply from outside Pakistan?
Yes — international applicants are welcome if they meet requirements.
Step-by-Step Apply Method | 5 Latest Jobs 2026
Step-by-Step Apply Guide:
- Update CV and cover letter.
- Visit the employer’s official careers portal.
- Search for Country Director, AKAH Pakistan.
- Create a profile and upload your documents.
- Submit before 18 January 2026.
5 More Latest Jobs (2026):
• Programme Manager – Development Sector
• Resilience Specialist – Humanitarian Org
• Senior Operations Lead – Infrastructure NGO
• Climate Adaptation Advisor – International Agency
• Director of Planning & Development – Multilateral Org
Conclusion
The Country Director role with the Aga Khan Agency for Habitat in Islamabad is a prestigious leadership position offering a rare chance to shape sustainable development and resilient infrastructure initiatives in Pakistan. If you have strong leadership, technical expertise, and a passion for community transformation, this role could be the next major milestone in your career.
Disclaimer:
Note: This job information is sourced from official or publicly available listings. Always verify details from the employer’s official website before applying.
