PROPEL Program Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address humanitarian needs, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, partnering with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. The organization is committed to fostering resilience and sustainable development in the regions it serves, focusing on empowering individuals and communities to thrive in the face of challenges.

Job Overview:
The PROPEL Africa Project (Pathways to Resilience, Opportunities, Professional Employment and Learning) is designed to tackle the ongoing issues of youth unemployment and underemployment in several African countries, including Liberia, Senegal, Tanzania, and Uganda. The project aims to address systemic barriers that young people face in securing dignified employment, which often stem from a mismatch between skills development and labor market needs, as well as limited access to financial resources. The PROPEL Program Director will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and management for the program, ensuring high-quality implementation across the targeted countries. This role involves leading governance structures, managing program coherence, overseeing technical and operational teams, and ensuring impactful delivery of the program's objectives. The Director will also represent the program to donors, governments, and regional partners, working to position PROPEL for sustainability and scale.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The PROPEL Program Director will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: leading the strategic direction and adaptive management of the PROPEL program, facilitating Program Steering Committee meetings, ensuring alignment between country-level strategies and regional goals, overseeing regional and country implementation, work planning, reporting, and compliance with donor and Mercy Corps standards. The Director will also recognize opportunities for innovative action, develop detailed implementation plans, maintain coherence between JA Africa and Mercy Corps roles, ensure safeguarding and youth engagement principles are embedded, drive adaptive learning approaches, serve as the primary donor representative, strengthen partnerships with various stakeholders, create a respectful work environment, supervise regional technical leaders and country teams, ensure effective financial management, and promote the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of all team members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in international development, economics, business, or a related field. They should have at least 10 years of leadership experience in complex, multi-country youth employment, market systems, or livelihoods programs. Demonstrated experience working through partnership models and a strong understanding of African labor markets and youth employment dynamics are essential. Proven donor engagement and representation experience, along with very strong written and verbal communication skills in English, are required. Proficiency in French is considered a plus. An internationally recognized qualification in project or program management or a commitment to obtain such a qualification early in the role is also necessary.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in fields such as international development, economics, business, or a related area. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of youth employment and market systems, as well as for effectively leading the PROPEL program.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of leadership experience in relevant fields, particularly in complex, multi-country youth employment, market systems, or livelihoods programs. Candidates should have a proven track record of working through partnership models and engaging with various stakeholders, including donors and government bodies. Experience in managing programs that address youth employment dynamics in Africa is highly valued.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for effective representation and collaboration. Knowledge of the French language is considered advantageous, as it may facilitate communication in certain regions and with specific stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kampala, Uganda, and requires up to 40% travel to support country programs, which may include travel to areas with limited amenities and security challenges. The role emphasizes ongoing learning, with team members expected to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.