Head of Programs

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Head of Programs
Location: Ethiopia
Country: Ethiopia
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Solidarités International (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting basic needs such as food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. Their interventions include expertise in access to drinking water, sanitation, hygiene promotion, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and livelihoods. SI operates in approximately twenty countries and employs around 3000 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers, all of whom work with professionalism and respect for cultural norms.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programs plays a crucial role in supporting the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director in developing, implementing, and monitoring activities within the country. This position involves supervising and coordinating all programs run by Solidarités International in the assigned country. The Head of Programs will face specific challenges such as strategic orientation, coordination, operational monitoring, and program team management. The role is vital in ensuring that the organization's mission is effectively executed, especially during the initial phases of program implementation. The Head of Programs will also be responsible for ensuring that the program team is well-recruited, trained, and supported in their roles, particularly in the early months of the mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programs will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Supporting the coordination team and base teams in launching activities effectively.
• Overseeing the recruitment, induction, and training of the program team at the Country Office level, while also supporting Field Coordinators in this process at the base level.
• Monitoring current activities in the country alongside Field Coordinators, ensuring that monitoring tools are utilized and that activities are implemented according to established plans and technical requirements.
• Coordinating the design and writing of new proposals and contributing to the development of a strategic intervention plan for the country.
• Engaging in reporting, communication, and representation of the organization to various stakeholders.
• Ensuring that all programs align with the organization's mission and adhere to donor policies and guidelines.
• Managing program budgets and ensuring financial accountability.
• Building and maintaining strong partnerships with local and international NGOs, as well as with local authorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in humanitarian or development studies, social sciences, management, or a related discipline. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of donor policies and guidelines, particularly with organizations such as ECHO, BHA, or CDCS. Experience working in countries with stringent administrative regulations and coordinating with local authorities is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate strong reporting and writing skills, as well as a proven ability to work collaboratively in consortiums and partnerships with NGOs. Knowledge and experience in SI's sectors of expertise, including WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), FSL (Food Security and Livelihoods), and Shelter, are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s Degree in a relevant field such as humanitarian/development studies, social sciences, or management is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage programs in challenging environments.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3-4 years in similar positions. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to manage programs, lead teams, and engage with various stakeholders effectively. Previous experience in mission opening phases is particularly valuable, as it indicates the candidate's capability to navigate the complexities of establishing new programs in challenging contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language would be considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication and engagement with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term contract with a duration of 11 months, starting on February 1, 202

• The role is based in Ethiopia, and the living conditions are reported to be good at the capital level, with access to essential goods and services. However, the security situation may be more tense in field locations. The compensation package includes a gross monthly salary starting from EUR 2860, a monthly per diem of USD 750, and coverage for accommodation and travel expenses. Additionally, expatriates benefit from a comprehensive insurance package covering healthcare expenses and essential vaccinations. The organization implements a system of breaks during the assignment, allowing for time off every three months.