Governance Project Manager

Job Posting Organization:
VSO (Voluntary Service Overseas) is the world’s leading international non-governmental organization that operates through volunteers to create a fair world for everyone. Established to address global inequalities, VSO has mobilized over 7,700 dedicated volunteers from around the world in 2022/23 alone, impacting nearly 11 million people across 35 countries. The organization focuses on marginalized groups, including those living in extreme poverty, individuals with disabilities, and those facing discrimination due to gender, sexuality, or social status. VSO emphasizes the importance of local perspectives in defining issues and solutions, ensuring that the individuals they serve are active participants in their own transformation.

Job Overview:
The Governance Project Manager role at VSO is designed for a highly skilled individual who will lead governance projects specifically in Nepal. The position requires a deep understanding of the local context, particularly in the Madhesh and Lumbini Provinces. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing projects that aim to strengthen governance systems, promote climate resilience, and enhance inclusion programming. This role is pivotal in facilitating sustainable change and building effective relationships with various stakeholders. The ideal applicant will possess strong project management skills and a background in governance or development studies, ensuring that they can navigate the complexities of local governance and drive impactful initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Governance Project Manager will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Leading and managing governance projects in Nepal, ensuring alignment with VSO’s mission and objectives.
• Conducting thorough political economy analyses to inform project strategies and interventions.
• Facilitating multi-stakeholder engagements to foster collaboration and consensus-building among local actors.
• Developing and implementing project plans, including setting objectives, timelines, and budgets.
• Monitoring and evaluating project outcomes to assess effectiveness and inform future initiatives.
• Building and maintaining relationships with government officials, community leaders, and other stakeholders to promote project goals.
• Providing technical support and capacity building to local partners and stakeholders.
• Reporting on project progress and outcomes to VSO management and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in project management, particularly within the governance sector. A strong understanding of the local context in Nepal, especially in Madhesh and Lumbini Provinces, is essential. Additionally, applicants should have expertise in IBA methodology and experience in political economy analysis. A proven track record in sub-national system strengthening, climate resilience initiatives, or inclusion programming is highly desirable. The ability to facilitate positive change and build sustainable working relationships is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A degree in Governance, Development Studies, Political Science, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in project management or governance will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the socio-political landscape in Nepal, particularly as it relates to governance and development.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have substantial experience leading governance projects, with a minimum of 5 years in a similar role. Experience working in Nepal, particularly in the Madhesh and Lumbini Provinces, is essential. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in local languages, particularly those spoken in the Madhesh and Lumbini Provinces, is highly desirable and will enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role with a competitive salary. The contract type is fixed-term, although the length of the contract is not specified. The application closing date is August 8, 2025, with interviews to be scheduled at a later date. The anticipated start date for the successful candidate is September 1, 202

• VSO promotes equal opportunities and values a diverse workforce, and they reserve the right to close the job early if a sufficient number of applications are received.