Posted 11 September 2026
We are seeking a senior professional with a Master’s degree and at least 12 years of relevant experience, including strong leadership experience and a proven track record in designing, implementing and evaluating labour and skills programs, particularly in development contexts for the Lead Labour and Skills position. Strong research, policy, stakeholder engagement and strategic leadership capabilities are essential; experience in Indonesia and/or labour economics is highly desirable. The Lead Labour and Skills will provide strategic and technical leadership for Prospera Phase 2’s labour and skills agenda, supporting the Government of Indonesia to advance efficient labour markets, a productive workforce, and inclusive and sustainable economic growth. Reporting to the Senior Portfolio Director – Markets, Investment and Jobs, the role will lead strategic initiatives and work closely with Indonesian Government counterparts, DFAT, Australian Public Service partners, development organisations, businesses and other stakeholders.
Role details
KEY INFORMATION
Job Title : Lead Labour and Skills
Program : Prospera Phase 2
Position Type : Long-Term Personnel (Local)
Duration/level of effort : 12 months, with possibility of extension
Position Location: Jakarta, Indonesia
SUMMARY OF THE PROJECT
Prospera is Australia's flagship economic governance investment in Indonesia, supporting the Government of Indonesia (GoI) to advance inclusive, sustainable and climate-resilient economic reform. Implemented by Cowater International in partnership with the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) and the Government of Indonesia, the program runs from 2026 to 2035. Prospera is a dual modality program comprising partnerships between Australian and Indonesian government agencies along with distinct but interrelated Managing Contractor-led (Cowater) advisory and support services.
SUMMARY OF THE POSITION
The Lead Labour and Skills shapes and drives the labour and skills agenda within Prospera Phase 2. This role is pivotal in aligning labour and skills initiatives with Prospera's strategic goals, notably to support strong, inclusive, and sustainable economic growth in Indonesia through efficient labour markets and productive workforce. The Lead Labour and Skills ensures that labour and skills programs are innovative, effective, and contribute to the overall success of the program.
Day-to-day, the Lead Labour and Skills combines strategic vision with operational excellence, reporting directly to the Senior Portfolio Director – Markets, Investment, and Jobs. Working alongside a dynamic team of staff members and experts, this role brings fresh thinking, energy, and a commitment to growth. The Lead Labour and Skills fosters a collaborative environment, driving performance and capability building across the labour and skills portfolio
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
The Lead Labour and Skills engages with:
Indonesian Government counterparts including but not limited to CMEA, Ministry of Manpower, National Economic Council, Ministry of National Planning — to align labour and skills initiatives with national policies and strategies, ensuring mutual benefit and coherence.
Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) — to provide relevant progress update, align program activities.
Australian Public Service (APS) partners — to leverage expertise, share best practices, and coordinate efforts across related development programs.
Local institutions and international development agencies — to foster collaboration, optimise synergy and reinforce the impact of labour and skills programs.
Stakeholder groups including businesses, NGOs, and community organisations — to gather input, build support, and ensure that labour and skills initiatives meet the needs of diverse stakeholders.
SELECTION CRITERIA
The successful candidate will have:
Essential
Master's Degree (S2)
Minimum of 12 years progressive professional experience in research, policy research
Demonstrated leadership in senior technical roles, with a proven track record of managing projects, teams and driving strategic initiatives
Extensive experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating labour and skills programs, particularly in development contexts
Strong history of engaging with government entities, international organisations, and other stakeholders to align and deliver on strategic objectives
Desirable
Ph.D. in economics, microeconomics, labour economics, or a related field, enhancing specialised knowledge and skills
Training in project management, to effectively lead and deliver complex projects within the function
Advanced Research Methodologies high proficiency in research methodologies including quantitative, qualitative and researches, research designs and data collection methods
Published Research or articles in labour and skills development, showcasing thought leadership and contribution to the field
Experience working on labour and skills development projects in international development contexts, particularly in Indonesia
APPLICATION PROCESS
Candidates are encouraged to apply by 2 Oktober 2026/as soon as possible.
For your application to be considered, please upload your documents as followed: Candidate Last Name, First Name, date, Title of the Position.
Cowater international strives to maintain a fair, transparent, and human centered recruitment process. As part of our commitment to responsible hiring practices and compliance with evolving recruitment regulations, we may use AI assisted tools to support limited aspects of our talent acquisition workflow, such as reviewing or shortlisting applications. These tools are used only to enhance efficiency and consistency in our processes. All assessments, interviews, and final hiring decisions are made exclusively by our human recruiting managers. Candidates may request additional information about the use of these tools or reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process.
Cowater International is an equal opportunity employer, basing employment on merit and qualifications as they relate to professional experience and position expectations. Cowater does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, or any other basis protected by law.
We thank all applicants, however only those shortlisted will be contacted.
ABOUT US
Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Manila, Nairobi, Singapore and Stockholm, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve. Our adaptive approach to management has led to our yearly award-winning work and recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2017.
We thank you for your interest in building a better tomorrow.