WEWORLD – Programs Manager – Afghanistan

WeWorld sta selezionando un/a Programs Manager da inserire nella sua operatività in Afghanistan. Durata 12 mesi. Scadenza candidature 23/03/2022

Programs Manager – Afghanistan

Reporting Relationship: Country Representative

Location: Herat, Afghanistan

Deadline: 23^th of March 2022

Starting date: ASAP

Type of contract: a first 3 (three) month collaboration contract subject to verification of the achievement of specific objectives (these objectives will be agreed together with the Country Representative upon arrival on assignment); a second collaboration contract of 9 (nine) months renewable, following the positive evaluation of the first three months of contract (according to fund availability)

Gross Salary: to be defined according to the candidate’s profile and WeWorld-GVC salary scale

General Description

WeWorld-GVC, recently constituted from the merger of two NGOs, is an Italian secular and independent organization working since 1971 in international cooperation and humanitarian aid. Present in 29 countries with 128 projects, WeWorld-GVC operates in the following areas of assistance: human rights (gender equality, prevention and combating violence against children and women, migration), humanitarian aid (prevention, emergency relief and rehabilitation), food security, access to water, health and hygiene, education, global citizenship education, quality teaching and international volunteering. WeWorld-GVC works mostly with girls, boys, women and youth, actors of change in every community for a fairer and more inclusive world. Supports people overcoming emergencies and guarantees a life with dignity, opportunities and a better future through human and economic development programs, in the framework of the 2030 Agenda. Joining the WeWorld-GVC team means being part of the development of a dynamic organisation where the contribution of each staff member is promoted and valued, working together towards the collective achievement of shared goals and vision.

Working context

WeWorld-GVC dated back is presence in Afghanistan at 2002 when, in Kabul, it started to support orphanages; in 2008 WeWorld-GVC established his operational base in Herat Province. For around 15 years WeWorld-GVC has managed humanitarian and development projects in Herat region mainly funded by the UN and the Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS).

During the last three years, WeWorld-GVC has suspended its direct implemented programmes in Afghanistan, while keeping contacts with its former staff in the field and collaboration with local partners.

The summer of 2021 saw collapse of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan and the establishment of the Islamic Emirate of Afghanistan, following the withdrawal of the U.S. led coalition forces and the capture of Kabul by the Taliban. The economy has drastically shrunk by 40%, partly as a result of the collapse of the financial system that has prevented much-needed cash from entering and sustaining the country. As such, the livelihoods of many families have been lost and households struggle to pay for food, water, rent, electricity and other basic necessities.

As a result of the a.m. crisis, WeWorld-GVC reactivated its programs and a first response plan has been developed together with RRAA, a well-established local NGO with whom WeWorld-GVC collaborated in the past.

WeWorld-GVC on-going programme is focused on Cash for Food addressing the needs of women headed families in Heart Governorate and assessment are on-going for Education in Emergency responses.

Purpose of the Role

The Programs Manager manages organizational programs at the country level ensuring quality from development through execution. Identifies programming opportunities and areas where the organization can demonstrate its value and relevance. Builds relationships with donors and national counterparts creating a network of collaboration and highlighting the value the organization brings. Manages International and National Staff and budget. The Programs Manager is under the direct line management of the Country Representative.

Main functions and duties

Programme Development (30%)

In collaboration with the Country Representative and HQ coordinators, develops and implements an appropriate and effective strategy related to the Emergency Sector, setting clear objectives and indicators
Develops new proposals in collaboration with the Country Representative and HQ coordinators, involving a multisector approach, expanding the intervention of WeWorld-GVC in new sectors
Provides strategic and technical guidance on key components of WeWorld-GVC’s emergency work to foster good practice and ensure that humanitarian minimum standards are met in all sectors

Programme and Project Management (50%)

Monitors and supervises planning of projects activities, ensuring effective delivery in line with donor requirements and WeWorld-GVC’s mission
Prepares internal and external reports to ensure effective and timely information flows and reporting
Ensures timely information on progress and results is available
Compiles, organizes, analyses, monitors, and prepares data for situation reports, fact sheets, donor reports, briefing notes, and other reporting products
Undertakes field visits to gather the information on results related to the emergency response activities
Ensures that field data collection and analysis are performed in a results-based and timely manner for donors, audits, and internal purposes
Direct follow up/implementation of projects without a dedicated Project Manager whenever needed and based on Country Representative’s orientations

Representation and coordination (10%)

Participates in Cluster/Groups coordination meetings and other emergency working groups or meetings as required
Represents WeWorld-GVC and feeds back to the Country Representative and HQ coordinators on relevant issues
Develops and maintains regular, transparent and accountable communication structures with the assigned project staff, HQ coordinators, as well as other relevant stakeholders (e.g. beneficiaries, community leaders, local and national government officials, UN agencies and other NGOs), with the objective of ensuring good cooperation and partnerships
Provides effective WeWorld-GVC representation to donors, national and local authorities, partners and other relevant stakeholders in the country
Supports donor relations by contributing to the production of various communication products for donors and accompanying donors during the field visits in coordination with programme and field officers

Capacity Building and General (10%)

Identifies learning and training opportunities for project staff and works as a mentor and role model for less experienced staff
Ensure transparent, equal and inclusive management and training of human resources in accordance with the policy and procedures, and all regulatory requirements (WeWorld-GVC, host country legislation and donor’s policy)
Foster an inclusive and diverse work environment, and ensure that the highest standards of conduct are observed

The duties and responsibilities set forth above are not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to perform additional duties.

Job Specifications

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS

Qualifications and Knowledge

An advanced university degree or equivalent in the field of Social or Political Science, Development Studies, International relations, Project Management
Knowledge of main donors’ policies and procedures (ECHO, UN Agencies, Italian Cooperation)
Fluent in written and spoken English
Good computer skills, in particular MS Office package

Professional experience

At least 5 years of relevant working experience in humanitarian settings
At least 4 years’ experience in Project Cycle Management
Proven experience in project proposal writing

Skills and Abilities

Strong flexibility and capacity to adapt behaviour to the needs of the situation
Good communication and leadership skills
Ability to perform under stress condition
Capacity to work autonomously and in problems prevention/resolution
Ability to plan strategically and conceptually and to translate these into concrete results
Good communication, negotiation skills and sensitivity in dealing with local institutions on critical issues
Proven organizational skills and ability to effectively manage multiple tasks while fostering quality, team spirit and positive working relationships with colleagues
Integrity in line with the Humanitarian Principles and ethical standards
Cultural, gender, religion, and age sensitivity and adaptability
Strong commitment to the Mission of WeWorld-GVC, genuine interest for international cooperation development topics

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS