Team Leader (International expert)

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to respond to disasters and hardships, Mercy Corps operates in more than 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. The organization focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, and education, and is committed to fostering sustainable change through innovative programs and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The position of Team Leader is crucial for the Nigerian Energy Support Programme (NESP III), focusing on the development of off-grid renewable energy projects. The Team Leader will be responsible for providing strategic leadership and direction to a multidisciplinary team of technical and transactional advisory experts. This role requires a deep understanding of the renewable energy sector, proven leadership in managing complex donor-funded programs, and extensive international experience. The Team Leader will work closely with both public and private sector partners to enhance the enabling environment for renewable energy deployment, ensuring that advisory services are delivered with high quality and strategic alignment with project goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Team Leader will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Strategic Leadership & Coordination: Overseeing all advisory packages, ensuring alignment with project activities at national and local levels, and supporting GIZ in refining project strategies.
• Team Management & Quality Assurance: Providing managerial leadership to a multidisciplinary team, ensuring quality assurance for all outputs, and overseeing timely and high-quality deliverables.
• Capacity Development & Technical Oversight: Leading the design and implementation of capacity development measures for local partners, integrating cross-cutting themes into advisory activities, and ensuring effective monitoring procedures are applied.
• Financial & Administrative Oversight: Managing financial planning, ensuring compliance with contractual requirements, and overseeing regular progress reporting.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: Integrating safeguarding practices into work, promoting open communication, and encouraging team members to report concerns.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree (or equivalent) in engineering relevant to energy, renewable energy, power systems, or energy economics/markets. They should have a minimum of 12 years of professional experience in the power sector, with at least 10 years specifically in renewable energy project development, including 5 years in rural electrification projects. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 10 years of management experience leading teams in projects or organizations, with at least 5 years in donor-funded projects. International experience is essential, with at least 5 years in two countries outside the West Africa region, and a minimum of 8 years of experience working in West Africa, including 4 years in Nigeria.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field such as engineering, renewable energy, power systems, or energy economics/markets is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary technical knowledge and skills to lead complex renewable energy projects effectively.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a robust professional background with a minimum of 12 years of experience in the power sector, including significant experience in renewable energy project development and rural electrification. They should have a proven track record of leadership in managing teams and projects, particularly in donor-funded environments. The candidate should also have international experience, having worked in multiple countries, and possess a deep understanding of the West African energy landscape, particularly in Nigeria.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with an excellent command at the C1 level (CEFR). Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to funding approval and may involve significant travel (up to 40%) to support country programs, including travel to potentially insecure locations. The role offers individual housing with access to good medical services and a high standard of living conditions. Mercy Corps is committed to ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization promotes a culture of trust, respect, and equal opportunity, ensuring a safe and inclusive work environment for all team members.