Programme Coordinator, Sierra Leone

Job Posting Organization:
The Education Outcomes Fund (EOF) is an initiative aimed at transforming how education is funded and delivered, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. EOF focuses on improving educational outcomes and ensuring that funding is directed towards effective programs that yield measurable results. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments and international organizations, to implement innovative financing models that prioritize learning and employment outcomes for disadvantaged children and youth. EOF is part of a global movement to reform education financing and has established partnerships to address the challenges faced in the education sector, particularly in relation to early childhood education.

Job Overview:
The Programme Coordinator for Sierra Leone will play a pivotal role in the implementation of an innovative Outcomes Based Financing (OBF) programme in Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE). This position involves working closely with the Country Lead and various partners to ensure the successful delivery of the programme, which aims to establish new community-based Early Childhood Development (ECD) centres. The Programme Coordinator will be responsible for managing stakeholder relationships, facilitating communication among partners, and addressing implementation challenges. The role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to enhancing the quality of education for children aged 3-5 in vulnerable areas of Sierra Leone. The successful candidate will contribute to a transformative initiative that seeks to impact up to 50,000 children by improving access to quality foundational learning opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Programme Coordinator will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Stakeholder Management: Building and maintaining relationships with government officials and implementing partners to ensure informed decision-making and active support for the programme.
• Programme Implementation: Supporting day-to-day operations, conducting site visits, and coordinating with evaluators to verify results.
• Programme Coordination: Managing workplans, tracking action items, and preparing for governance meetings.
• Operational Support: Drafting procurement and travel plans, maintaining records of assets, and ensuring compliance with UNOPS standards.
• Financial Administration: Monitoring expenses and ensuring operational due diligence. The role requires a strong focus on collaboration, communication, and strategic planning to achieve the programme's objectives effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of experience in project management or programme implementation, preferably within the education or ECCE sectors in Sierra Leone. Experience in stakeholder engagement and management, particularly in the education sector, is essential. Familiarity with donor relations and international organizations in the development sector is also required. Desired qualifications include experience with results-based financing and innovative delivery models, particularly outcomes funds.

Educational Background:
The position requires at least a secondary school education, with a preference for candidates holding a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) in fields such as International Development, Public Policy, Education, Business, Economics, Political Science, or Finance. Relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of formal educational qualifications.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in project management or programme implementation, with a strong emphasis on the education sector. Experience in stakeholder engagement and management, particularly in Sierra Leone, is crucial. Candidates should also have a background in working with donors and international organizations in the development sector, with a preference for those who have experience in results-based financing and innovative delivery models.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at the Associate seniority level (ICS 07) and is offered under an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA) with a regular contract type. The contract duration is ongoing, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. The application deadline is set for midnight Copenhagen time (CET) on the closing date of 05-Aug-202

• UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from underrepresented groups and individuals with disabilities. Background checks will be conducted for final candidates to ensure compliance with organizational standards.