Resilience Knowledge Hub Team Leader

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster relief, poverty alleviation, and community development. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger, more resilient communities. In Zimbabwe, Mercy Corps has been active since 2002, working to improve the livelihoods of smallholder farmers and enhance access to essential services such as water, sanitation, and hygiene. The organization is committed to building secure, productive, and just communities, particularly in the face of recurrent environmental, economic, and social challenges.

Job Overview:
The Resilience Knowledge Hub Team Leader will oversee the Resilience Knowledge Hub (RKH) under the Zimbabwe Resilience Building Fund (ZRBF). This role serves as the primary liaison between UNDP and the ZRBF Steering Committee, ensuring effective coordination and implementation of RKH's core functions. The Team Leader will be responsible for providing guidance and capacity strengthening to ZRBF consortia partners, enabling them to implement resilience-building programs and influence related policies. The RKH aims to enhance the capacity of partners in understanding and applying resilience concepts and methodologies, thereby driving the resilience agenda as outlined in the Zimbabwe Resilience Strategic Framework. The Team Leader will also play an advisory role in conducting analyses and improving planning processes, ensuring that the RKH serves as a catalyst for generating evidence and translating it into actionable recommendations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RKH Team Leader will manage and supervise program staff, ensuring accountability to Mercy Corps policies and UNDP regulations. Key responsibilities include leading the development of a Knowledge Management vision and strategy, ensuring high-quality implementation of RKH, and providing leadership to adapt to changing contexts. The Team Leader will support the Resilience Measurement & Research Specialist in developing a strategic resilience measurement approach, contribute to sensemaking sessions with partners, and promote a culture of learning and reflection within the team. Additionally, the Team Leader will ensure compliance with financial regulations, represent Mercy Corps at relevant events, and coordinate activities with various stakeholders to foster collaboration and avoid duplication of efforts. security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security management is also a critical aspect of the role, ensuring that RKH activities are designed with a clear understanding of safety and security.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree or an Advanced University Degree in development studies, international relations, resilience, climate change, Disaster Risk Reduction, or closely related fields. A minimum of 9 years of relevant management experience in resilience programming is required, with at least 5 years in a senior management position overseeing integrated, multi-sectoral programs. Experience in international development, particularly in resilience, along with strong research, monitoring, evaluation, and analytical skills, is essential. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are necessary, as well as adaptability to shifting priorities and a strong understanding of the Zimbabwean context being an advantage.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree or an Advanced University Degree in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, resilience, climate change, or Disaster Risk Reduction. Candidates should have a strong academic foundation that supports their understanding of the complexities involved in resilience programming and community development.

Experience:
The position requires at least 9 years of relevant management experience, particularly in resilience programming. Candidates should have a proven track record in coordination and leadership roles within an international non-governmental organization (INGO). A minimum of 5 years in a senior management role overseeing integrated, multi-sectoral programs of similar size and scope is essential. Experience in international development and familiarity with resilience-related research, monitoring, and evaluation are also critical.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the role's requirements. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Zimbabwe may be advantageous but is not explicitly stated as a requirement.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and involves significant leadership responsibilities. The successful candidate will be expected to engage in organizational learning activities, dedicating 5% of their time to learning initiatives that benefit both Mercy Corps and their personal development. The role emphasizes accountability to participants and adherence to safeguarding principles, ensuring a respectful and dignified environment for all individuals involved in Mercy Corps' work. Team members are required to complete mandatory Code of Conduct e-learning courses upon hire and annually thereafter.