Programme Manager (PM) - Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE)

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded with the belief that a better world is possible. Established in August 2007, Mercy Corps has been operational in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) for over 15 years. The organization employs approximately 300 national and expatriate staff and operates in more than 40 countries worldwide. Mercy Corps focuses on delivering bold solutions to help communities overcome adversity and build resilience. In DRC, the organization has reached over half a million people through integrated programs that ensure equitable access to improved water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) services, economic development, and social cohesion initiatives.

Job Overview:
The RCCE Program Manager is tasked with the design and implementation of Mercy Corps' Risk Communication and Community Engagement activities as part of the Ebola response in the DRC. This role involves close collaboration with various stakeholders, including the Ebola Response and Emergency program leads, to engage affected communities effectively. The manager will oversee the entire RCCE programming cycle, ensuring that strategies are developed, messages are adapted, and activities are delivered in the field. The position requires strong leadership skills to mentor Community Engagement staff and effective communication abilities to interact with donors and stakeholders. The RCCE Program Manager will also work closely with technical advisors to align strategies with current epidemiological evidence and ensure that interventions are impactful and coordinated with local health authorities and partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The RCCE Program Manager will be responsible for developing and implementing a community engagement strategy tailored to the Ebola response. This includes conducting formative research, adapting communication materials, and designing activities that leverage existing community structures for effective engagement. The manager will represent Mercy Corps in various coordination meetings, ensuring effective communication with local authorities and partners. They will lead awareness-raising activities, oversee the implementation of community engagement assistants' work, and manage partnerships with local organizations. Additionally, the manager will supervise Community Engagement Coordinators and Assistants, ensuring that program implementation meets targets and adheres to budgetary constraints. They will also ensure compliance with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security procedures and safeguarding responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, public/community health, communication, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of experience in community engagement or social behavior change is required, preferably within an NGO context. Demonstrated experience in engaging community structures and coordinating with government and humanitarian bodies is essential. Candidates should have experience in developing and implementing donor-funded programs and possess strong technical knowledge in social and behavior change communication.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in social sciences, public/community health, communication, rural development, or community development is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of community engagement and health communication in the context of an Ebola response.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in community engagement, social behavior change, or a similar role. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with community structures and organizations, as well as experience in leading RCCE activities within a multi-partner or consortium framework. Experience in coordinating with government counterparts and adhering to donor-funded program requirements is also necessary.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written skills in French are mandatory, along with proficiency in local languages such as Swahili or Lingala. Knowledge of English is considered an asset, enhancing communication with international stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
The RCCE Program Manager position is based in Bunia, DRC, which is currently experiencing security challenges due to the Ebola outbreak. The role requires flexibility in work schedules, including evenings and weekends, and involves approximately 30% travel to field offices in insecure environments. The position is full-time and may involve working in group accommodations with limited freedom of movement. Mercy Corps is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.