Senior Program Manager-Central and Western Africa
The National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) seeks a seasoned Senior Program Manager with strong staff and program management and writing skills to support the Institute’s democratic development programs in Central and West Africa. The position will be based in Washington, D.C. The Senior Program Manager will contribute to the planning, implementation and evaluation of democratic development projects in various African countries.
Background
To assist African countries develop and sustain democratic institutions and processes, NDI conducts programs in support of electoral processes, political parties, increased citizen involvement in political processes and effective legislatures. The Institute also promotes the political participation of women, youth and other marginalized groups.
Required Skills
- Provide team leadership in day-to-day management of assigned country portfolios.
- Design and oversee the implementation of program activities and monitor compliance with NDI procedures and donor requirements.
- Contribute to the planning, design and evaluation of NDI’s projects for the region in collaboration with other staff, experts and external resource persons.
- Monitor program budgets and provide a full, accurate and timely accounting of all program funds.
- Write and/or edit proposals, concept papers and reports.
- Supervise, guide and mentor team members.
- Interface with functional or regional staff on behalf of the team.
- Interview and recruit staff as needed (e.g. approve job descriptions, develop short-lists and conduct interviews).
- Serve as a “high-level” NDI representative at local and international conferences and meetings and assist with NDI’s public outreach as needed.
- Cultivate collaborative relationships with international democratic development organizations, political party networks, program partners and NDI’s network of volunteer trainers and experts.
- Monitor political events in assigned countries.
Travel to Central and West Africa as needed to assess political development and new opportunities and/or contribute to program implementation and evaluation of current projects
Experience Required
- Bachelor’s degree in political science, international relations, law, international development or related subject; graduate degree preferred.
- A minimum of ten (10) years relevant work experience in areas such as international development, program management and organizational development. Additional years of relevant work experience may be substituted for educational requirement.
- Exceptional writing skills to effectively write clear and concise proposals and reports.
- Strong managerial and interpersonal skills and cultural sensitivity to effectively interact with staff and current and potential donors.
- Excellent oral communication skills.
- Strong experience in program design and strategic planning.
- Exceptional analytical skills for interpreting complex program and political issues, thinking innovatively and introducing new concepts.
- Strong knowledge of budget and accounting procedures.
- Competency in one or more areas of NDI’s functional programs.
- Familiarity with and interest in African politics.
- English and French language fluency.
- Experience living and working outside the U.S. preferred.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Windows, email technology and spreadsheets.
- Ability and willingness to travel to locations in Central and West Africa, some of which may be lacking modern communications or transportation infrastructure.
Post a Comment