Technical programme director, Nigeria

More than half the world lives in poverty. Christian Aid has a vision – an end to poverty – and we believe that vision can become a reality. We are striving to bring lasting change to the lives of the poorest communities. We work wherever there is great need, helping people to find their own solutions to the problems they face, irrespective of their religion, caste or creed. If you’re passionate about positive change across the world, then this job might be for you.

USAIDProgramme‘Scale-Up of Care and Support Services for Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Selected States in Nigeria’

A country of vast human and natural resources, Nigeria has influence over the political, social and cultural agenda throughout Africa. Yet it has a history of political instability, religious and ethnic conflict, corruption and mismanagement which have left the majority of its population still living in poverty. Nigeria has one of the largest number of orphans and vulnerable children in the world, estimated at 17.5 million in 2008, of which 2.3 million are orphaned due to AIDS.

We are looking for an exceptional ‘self-starter’ who is able to provide technical leadership and expertise to a large ($32 million) and complex USAID project to scale up care and support services for orphans and vulnerable children. You must have significant managerial experience on large-scale multi-partner development programmes, have worked at a senior level on a USAID or other large donor-funded project and, ideally, you will have first-hand knowledge of Nigeria. At least you must have a positive outlook about contributing to change here. Nigerian candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

The ideal candidate must possess a Master’s degree in social sciences, public health or a related field; and must have at least seven years experience in public health, including at least four of these in multi-sectoral care and support for OVC and/or people living with HIV/AIDS. You will need;

· Demonstrated ability to manage a complex programme, working collaboratively across technical disciplines

· Solid knowledge and understanding of current good practices in OVC programming

· Proven expertise in developing and implementing effective partnerships with private sector entities

· Proven experience in designing, implementing and monitoring capacity strengthening approaches for government and civil society partners

· Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in a team

· Excellent oral and written communication skills. Fluency in English is essential. Knowledge of local languages desirable.

Note: Recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project

Please show your suitability for this post by giving answers to the following questions. Using the guidance notes may help you formulate your answers.

Innovation and creativity

Describe the most complex problem that you were faced with and how you generated a new approach, explanation or solution.

Team work

Describe a specific project or activity in which you had to identify tasks and set priorities for others. Tell us how you went about planning and organising so that the group would reach the goal.

Effectiveness and accountability

Discuss a time when you helped your team reach agreement after you all seemed unable to reach consensus.

Communication and interaction

Describe a situation where you had to explain a complex idea/problem to someone, in a credible and persuasive manner.

We value the contribution each person makes to the success of our organization, so you can expect a range of rewards and benefits that will ensure you enjoy a good work/life balance.

Download role profile (75 KB pdf)

To apply for this post, please download an application pack and email your completed International application form to nigeriarecruit@christian-aid.org quoting the reference number below.

Please note that CVs will not be accepted and that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Job reference: SPM-OVC/NG/02/2011A

Closing date: 12 noon, Friday 9 September 2011

Interview date: Week commencing Monday 12 September 2011

Christian Aid values diversity and aspires to reflect this in our workforce. We welcome applications from people from all sections of the community, irrespective of race, color, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, religion or belief.