Senior Manager – Social Innovation Program

Job title: Senior Manager 

Department: Social Innovation (SOAR) Program 

Expected time to start: As soon as possible 

Grade: 3 – 4 (in the grade level of MSD) 

Venue: Hanoi, with some travel to other provinces and countries when necessary 

Management and Sustainable Development Institute (MSD United Way Vietnam) is one of Vietnam's leading organizations advancing sustainable development through social innovation, ecosystem collaboration, and inclusive partnerships. As a member of United Way Worldwide, MSD works with businesses, startups, government agencies, financial institutions, international organizations, civil society organizations, and communities to co-create innovative solutions for sustainable development challenges in Vietnam and the region. 

During the 2026–2030 period, MSD aims to mobilize and coordinate the power of communities and multi-stakeholder ecosystems to advance inclusive growth and sustainable development in Vietnam. 

MSD's strategic directions for 2026–2030 include: 

• SOAR – Social Open Innovation: Co-creating innovative solutions for inclusive growth and sustainable development 
• CandY– Children and youth program: Expanding opportunities and unlocking the potential of children and youth 
• GREEN – Green living and resilient communities – Strengthening resilient and adaptive foundations for communities 

Within this strategic vision, the Social Innovation (SOAR) Program serves as MSD's platform for ecosystem building, innovation partnerships, and cross-sector collaboration. SOAR focuses on connecting businesses, startups, financial institutions, development partners, public sector actors, universities, and communities to co-create practical and scalable solutions for social and environmental challenges. 

The program's strategic priorities include: 

• Advancing ESG and responsible business practices 
• Promoting green finance and sustainable economic models 
• Strengthening social open innovation ecosystems and impact entrepreneurship 
• Supporting youth-led innovation and inclusive technology solutions 
• Applying citizen-generated data, AI, and innovation tools to improve sustainable development outcomes 
• Building ecosystem partnerships that connect innovation with real community impact  

MSD is currently undergoing an exciting transformation toward a more innovation-driven, ecosystem-oriented, and technology-enabled organization. We are looking for professionals who are not only capable of implementing projects, but who are eager to shape ideas, influence systems, build partnerships, and grow into future leaders within the organization. 

This role is expected to contribute actively to that journey through leadership, partnership development, innovation, and strategic ecosystem engagement. 

1. Purpose: The Senior Project Manager will play a key role in leading and scaling MSD's Social Innovation (SOAR) initiatives, driving ecosystem partnerships, ESG and sustainability engagement, and innovation programs with businesses, startups, development partners, and communities. This role is designed for high-potential professionals who are ready to grow toward Program Manager and strategic leadership positions within MSD.

2. Working location: Mainly in Hanoi and possible travels to project sites, and some other provinces and countries when assigned. The travel fee and per diem will be under MSD's cost norm system; 

3. Reporting Line: Direct report to and be supported/coached by Program Manager and/or Program Director; 

4. Supervision: Officers, Assistants, Interns, Volunteers; 

5. Main responsibilities: 

• Operation: Taking charge in the implementation process of projects under the SOAR portfolio throughout the project management cycle (design, developing a work plan, coordinating the implementation, monitoring, and evaluation). The main assigned projects for this post are, but are not limited to: 
• Future Solution Project (Shinhan Square Bridge Vietnam project)
• INSPIRE Mekong project
• AGREEN and ESG project
• Sustainable Coffee – ESG project
• Other innovation projects focusing on living lab of innovation (updating)  
• Implement the communications activities in different channels of the SDGI projects; 
• Support event organization and communications of MSD in general; 
• Document the project and provide updates/ communication for projects in charge. 

For further information, please see at: https://msdvietnam.org/senior-manager-soar2026/

6. Work plan: Workplan of MSD strategy 

7. Why join MSD: 

At MSD, we believe leadership is built through ownership, innovation, and collaboration. We are looking for professionals who are eager not only to implement projects, but also to shape ideas, build partnerships, and contribute to meaningful systems change in Vietnam. 

Joining MSD means having the opportunity to: 

• Take ownership of high-impact initiatives in ESG, green finance, social innovation, and ecosystem building 
• Work with diverse stakeholders across sectors, including corporates, startups, financial institutions, government agencies, development partners, and communities 
• Contribute to pioneering initiatives shaping responsible business, sustainability, and innovation ecosystems in Vietnam 
• Access a strong professional network through national, regional, and international partnerships 
• Gain hands-on learning through real project implementation, ecosystem engagement, and cross-sector collaboration 
• Grow through a clear professional development pathway toward Program Manager and strategic leadership roles within MSD 
• Work in a dynamic, innovation-driven, and mission-oriented environment that values initiative, creativity, and continuous learning 
• Receive a competitive salary and benefits package, along with opportunities for national and international exposure 

We strongly invest in talent development and mentorship. We believe the next generation of leaders in sustainability and social innovation should be empowered not only to manage projects, but also to influence systems, inspire collaboration, and shape the future. 

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in sustainability, development studies, business, economics, innovation, or related fields.  
• At least 3–5 years of experience in project or program management, preferably in development, ESG, sustainability, or innovation-related projects.  
• Demonstrated experience in multi-stakeholder engagement, working with businesses, financial institutions, government agencies, civil society organizations, or development partners.  
• Proven ability to manage multiple projects or workstreams independently, including planning, coordination, and delivery across different project phases.  
• Experience in partnership development, ecosystem building, or project scaling is strongly preferred.  
• Familiarity with ESG, sustainable development, green finance, or social innovation; hands-on experience in related projects is an advantage.  
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts, research findings, and project insights into clear and actionable messages.  
• Experience in developing knowledge products or communication materials (e.g. reports, briefs, presentations, or digital content) is an advantage.  
• Good analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to adapt and work in a dynamic, multi-project environment.  
• High level of English proficiency (both written and verbal) for reporting, research, and stakeholder engagement.  
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally when required.  

The recruitment process includes 3 rounds: 

• Round 1: CV and Cover Letter Screening 
• Round 2: Short Written Test for Shortlisted Candidates from Round 1 
• Round 3: In-person Interview at MSD Hanoi Office for Shortlisted Candidates 

Interested candidates can send inquiries or applications in English (including CV and Cover Letter) to the email: [Confidential Information] with the subject: SOAR PROJECT MANAGER 2026_Name of Applicant (e.g: SOAR PROJECT MANAGER 2026_Nguyen Van A) as soon as possible, before 23:00, Sunday, May 31st 2026.  

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. 

We will give priority to early applications and will finish the recruitment when finding the suitable candidate. 

MSD is an organization working for the best benefits of children and has a child-safeguarding policy. All staff is required to strictly follow the child-safeguarding policy and are committed to developing an enabling and safe environment to children. Alcohol and tobacco use is strictly prohibited at work.