Lead media development projects in Mexico and Central America. DW Akademie is hiring a Project Manager to coordinate fellowship programs and civic dialogue initiatives. Apply by Feb 15, 2026.
Job Title: Project Manager (f/m/d)
| Organization | Deutsche Welle (DW Akademie) |
| Location | Mexico City, Mexico |
| Contract Type | Full-time Local Staff Contract (Limited until 31 Dec 2028) |
| Start Date | 01 March 2026 (or ASAP) |
| Application Deadline | 15 February 2026 |
Organizational Context
DW Akademie is Deutsche Welle’s center for international media development, journalism training, and knowledge transfer. Our projects strengthen the human right to freedom of expression and unhindered access to information.
We are currently recruiting a Project Manager to join our team in Mexico City. This role is pivotal for our engagement in Mexico and Central America, specifically focusing on promoting civic dialogue through innovative journalistic initiatives.
Position Mandate
You will coordinate the implementation of our media development portfolio, with a particular responsibility for a flagship fellowship programme. Your mandate is to empower media practitioners and foster dialogue in a complex regional landscape.
This is a versatile role requiring a balance of project management rigor and journalistic expertise. You will design curricula, manage sub-grants, and cultivate relationships with a diverse network of stakeholders, ranging from indigenous media outlets to international donors.
Key Responsibilities
Project Implementation & Fellowship Management
- Design and execute a fellowship programme aimed at promoting civic dialogue. This includes drafting calls for proposals, selecting fellows, and developing comprehensive curricula.
- Organize supporting activities such as networking events, outreach campaigns, and specialized workshops for media practitioners.
- Identify, brief, and manage a pool of experts, consultants, and trainers to deliver high-quality capacity building.
Administration & Financial Oversight
- Prepare comprehensive project reports and documentation for donors and internal management, highlighting impact and progress.
- Ensure strict financial accountability and compliance with donor requirements, including the management of sub-grants and project budgets.
- Oversee administrative tasks related to project activities, including the organization of business trips, trainings, and consultations.
Strategic Development & Communication
- Support the Program Director in the strategic development of media projects across Mexico and Central America.
- Develop and adapt training materials for media partners, ensuring they are contextually relevant.
- Contribute to project visibility through targeted communication efforts and the production of multimedia content.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a media professional with a deep understanding of the journalistic landscape in the region and proven experience in project management.
Essential Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Media Studies, Journalism, Social Sciences, Communication, or a related field.
- Journalism Experience: Several years of practical experience in journalism are required. Experience as a trainer or facilitator is a strong asset.
- Project Management: Extensive experience in planning, budgeting, monitoring, and steering projects, ideally within the media development or freedom of expression sector.
- Regional Knowledge: In-depth understanding of the media landscape in Mexico and Central America, including independent, community-based, and indigenous media.
Skills & Competencies
- Languages: Professional proficiency in both Spanish and English is mandatory. Knowledge of German is an advantage.
- Coordination: Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage elaborate processes and rigorous accountability mechanisms.
- Digital Literacy: Familiarity with Artificial Intelligence and current journalistic trends is desirable. Capacity to produce multimedia content is an asset.
- Intercultural Competence: High level of diplomacy and political sensitivity, with the ability to build productive relationships across all levels of the organization.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 15 February 2026
To be considered for this position, please submit your complete application in English (CV and Cover Letter) via the DW online career portal.
Deutsche Welle is committed to diversity and equal opportunities. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates regardless of background.