Senior Program Officer

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, economic development, and social justice, aiming to create a positive impact on communities worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the implementation of the Strengthening Infectious Disease Detection Systems (STRIDES) Activity in Nigeria. This position is responsible for ensuring that project activities align with established work plans and are executed with the necessary technical expertise. The officer will gather and analyze information to assist in managing complex project activities, ensuring compliance with both internal and external regulations. The role involves monitoring project expenditures against the budget and maintaining confidentiality regarding sensitive project information. The Senior Program Officer will also be tasked with developing and reviewing work plans, preparing presentations, and supporting various project objectives and deliverables. This position is embedded within the STRIDES Activity in Nigeria and is essential for direct project implementation and delivery, providing project management, administrative, and operational support to the STRIDES Nigeria leadership team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Officer will be responsible for a wide range of duties including programmatic management, where they will support the STRIDES Nigeria management team by coordinating project resources and planning for deliverables. They will ensure compliance with client requirements and organizational policies, support the preparation of programmatic reports, and oversee reporting processes to meet client expectations. The officer will represent the project at client meetings and external events, facilitating communication between STRIDES and relevant stakeholders. Additionally, they will monitor subcontractor and partner deliverables, manage project risks, and provide administrative support including knowledge management initiatives and operations support. Financial oversight is also a key responsibility, involving budget development, monitoring spending rates, and reviewing expense reports and invoices. The officer will be expected to demonstrate advanced project management skills, excellent communication abilities, and the capacity to analyze data and prepare reports.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Senior Program Officer position should possess advanced knowledge of project management concepts and practices. They should have experience supervising lower-level staff and implementing performance management processes. A strong ability to influence and collaborate with others is essential, along with excellent oral and written communication skills. The candidate should also have the ability to analyze and interpret data, identify errors, and prepare comprehensive reports. Problem-solving skills are crucial, as the officer will work on complex issues that require careful evaluation of various factors.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's Degree or its international equivalent in fields such as Civil Society, Communication and Social Marketing, Economic Development, Education, Environment, Gender, Health, Nutrition, Research, Technology, Youth, or a related field is required. A Project Management (PM) Certification is preferred, indicating a formal understanding of project management principles and practices.

Experience:
Typically, candidates should have a minimum of 6+ years of relevant experience in project management principles and practices. Prior work experience in a non-governmental organization (NGO), government agency, or private organization is essential. Experience in international or domestic program development or program management is preferred, highlighting the need for a strong background in managing projects effectively.

Languages:
While the job posting does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the location and nature of the work. Additional languages may be beneficial, particularly those relevant to the local context or stakeholders involved in the project.

Additional Notes:
The position may require up to 10% - 25% domestic travel. It is important to note that this job description summarizes the main duties and does not restrict the exact tasks that may be assigned. FHI 360 is committed to providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries, adhering to safeguarding principles and policies. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from all qualified individuals, including those with criminal histories, in accordance with applicable laws. FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and supports a healthy work/life balance.