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Position Title: Livelihoods and Food Security Project Manager
Location: Maiduguri
Country: Nigeria
Deadline Date: 11th October 2024

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee due to conflict and disaster. Since its inception, NRC has been dedicated to providing high-quality aid and defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on various core competencies such as Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH), Shelter, Education, Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Livelihoods and Food Security (LFS), Camp Management, and Protection from Violence (PfV). NRC has been active in Nigeria since 2015, responding to the acute humanitarian needs caused by ongoing conflicts and displacement, particularly in the NorthEast region, where millions are affected by violence and insecurity. The organization employs a diverse workforce and is committed to fostering a culture of diversity, equity, and inclusion across all levels of its operations.

Job Overview:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Project Manager is responsible for designing, developing, and implementing programs that address the core competencies of livelihoods and food security within NRC's operations in Nigeria. This role is crucial in ensuring that the organization meets the immediate needs of displacement-affected communities while also working towards long-term recovery and resilience. The manager will oversee project implementation, ensuring that activities are aligned with NRC's strategic objectives and donor requirements. This includes preparing detailed project plans, managing budgets, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The role also involves supporting fundraising efforts, conducting needs assessments, and collaborating with various stakeholders to enhance the effectiveness of the programs. The manager will play a key role in mentoring staff, representing NRC in Coordination platforms, and developing advocacy messages that align with the overall country program strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Livelihoods and Food Security Project Manager will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: preparing and delivering detailed project implementation plans, procurement strategies, and budget spending plans; identifying and mitigating risks associated with project targets; supporting fundraising efforts through participation in technical assessments and proposal writing; ensuring integration of projects with other core competency areas; preparing high-quality donor and internal reports; ensuring compliance with donor and NRC regulations; identifying learning and training opportunities for staff and partners; representing NRC in sector coordination meetings and technical working groups; developing advocacy messages; maintaining effective partnerships with NGOs, CBOs, and government partners; managing LFS staff, including recruitment and performance management; and ensuring that project activities are responsive to the needs of the affected communities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Development studies, Rural Development, Agriculture, Livelihoods, Economics, or a related discipline. A minimum of 3 years of experience in project management within humanitarian or recovery contexts, specifically managing Livelihoods and Food Security interventions, is required. Proven experience in agriculture, livestock, aquaculture, income generation, Financial Inclusion, and value chain development is essential, along with strong experience in Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) modalities. Candidates should have experience in conducting food security and livelihood assessments, both in the field and through data Analysis, and must have a track record of working in complex and volatile environments. Experience working with local Civil Society Organizations in areas such as identification, supervision, sub-granting, and Capacity Building is also necessary. Strong project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects in challenging environments, are required, along with proven abilities in staff, donor contract, and budget management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as social sciences, Development studies, Rural Development, Agriculture, Livelihoods, or Economics. Advanced degrees or additional certifications in project management or related areas may be advantageous but are not mandatory.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in project management, specifically in humanitarian or recovery contexts. Experience managing Livelihoods and Food Security interventions is crucial, along with a proven ability to work in complex and volatile environments. Familiarity with local contexts, particularly in Northeast Nigeria, is highly desirable, as is experience with local partnerships and capacity building.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory. Excellent report writing skills are essential. Knowledge of local languages such as Hausa and Fulani is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Maiduguri, Nigeria, with a contract duration of 12 months, which may be extended based on performance and funding availability. The role may require travel up to 60% of the time. The salary and benefits will be determined according to NRC's national salary scale for Nigeria. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, and this position is open only to internal candidates with the legal right to work in Nigeria. The organization does not provide work permits or visa sponsorships for this role. NRC emphasizes a culture of safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment, treating everyone with respect and dignity.