Safe Families Program Manager

Job Posting Organization:
Save The Children is a global non-profit organization founded with the mission to ensure every child has the opportunity to grow up healthy, educated, and safe. Established in 1919, Save The Children has grown to have a presence in over 120 countries, employing thousands of staff and volunteers who work tirelessly to provide children with a brighter future. The organization focuses on various issues affecting children, including health, education, and protection, and aims to create lasting change in the lives of the most vulnerable children around the world.

Job Overview:
The Safe Families Program Manager will play a crucial role in leading the Safe Families program in Vanuatu, which is funded by the New Zealand Government through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This program addresses critical child protection issues, particularly focusing on violence, neglect, and sexual abuse of children. With alarming statistics indicating that over 80% of children in Vanuatu experience violent discipline, and girls facing significant risks of sexual violence, the program aims to strengthen community-based and state-led child protection responses. The manager will be responsible for overseeing the planning, implementation, and reporting of the program, ensuring that it aligns with Vanuatu’s National Sustainable Development Goals and adheres to Save the Children’s policies and donor requirements. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including government bodies and civil society partners, to enhance the capacity of child protection responders across all six provinces in Vanuatu.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Safe Families Program Manager will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: overseeing all planning, implementation, and reporting for the Safe Families program; ensuring project milestones and project management tools are completed and updated regularly; collaborating with function leads such as finance and monitoring and evaluation teams to ensure realistic implementation of activities; adhering to Save the Children’s policies and donor compliance; monitoring program activities using project management methodologies; assessing program quality assurance needs; contributing to the development of technical guidelines and materials; training and supporting program and partner staff; maintaining strong relationships with donors and stakeholders; and presenting project progress data at monthly Grant Management Committee meetings. The manager will also be expected to provide constructive technical advice for program quality improvement and input into terms of reference for external technical advisers as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Safe Families Program Manager position should possess strong program management expertise, excellent relationship-building skills, and a deep understanding of child protection issues. They should have experience in managing similar programs, particularly in the Pacific region, and demonstrate a commitment to child safeguarding principles. The ideal candidate will have the ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders, ensuring that the program meets its objectives effectively and efficiently. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in social work, international development, public health, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in child protection or program management will be considered an asset. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the socio-cultural context of Vanuatu and the Pacific region, as well as familiarity with relevant policies and frameworks related to child protection.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in program management, ideally with at least 5 years of relevant experience in child protection or related fields. Experience working in the Pacific region, particularly in Vanuatu, is highly desirable. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing complex programs, leading teams, and engaging with various stakeholders, including government agencies and civil society organizations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with stakeholders. Knowledge of Bislama or French would be considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better communication with local communities and partners.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time contract position based in Port Vila, Vanuatu. The role offers an attractive salary package along with comprehensive medical reimbursement benefits and generous leave provisions, including annual leave, sick leave, maternity and paternity leave, compassionate leave, domestic violence leave, and study leave. The organization emphasizes a child-friendly work environment and values staff wellbeing, providing access to counseling and mental health support. Save the Children Australia is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce, reflecting the communities it serves.