Ethiopia: HEAD OF PROGRAMS (Ethiopia) Ref. 43/14-15

At Oxfam Intermón, we are people who believe in justice and solidarity, and work to change the world. We are acting in a comprehensive way in around fifty countries of Africa, Latin America and Asia, working on more than 500 development and humanitarian action projects, we promote fair trade and social awareness and mobilization campaigns. Reporting to the Associate Country Director, the Head of Programs will provide strong and strategic leadership to the Country Programme. He/She will co-ordinate and supervise the operations of Field Managers and Technical Coordinators, and guarantee timely and high quality programme delivery that is consistent with Intermon Oxfam’s values, mission and goals, aligning them with country priorities.

Key Responsibilities

Context Oxfam Intermon (OI) in Ethiopia works in development and humanitarian activities, we particularly focus on rural livelihood, Humanitarian Actions and Water sanitation and hygiene working in different regional states of Ethiopia since 1995. As a member of the senior management team (SMT) in Ethiopia, the Head of Programs will be required to ensure the proper implementation of program strategies and plans and coordinate a broad spectrum of programs, stakeholders and geographies, while leading the closure and/or transfer process of programs to other affiliates or agencies and contributing to the implementation of Oxfam 2020 in country. Define the annual operational plan, in collaboration with the rest of the coordination team and the Associate Country Director, and within the framework of the country strategy. Oversee the strategic implementation of programme activities from the different funders and implemented by the country programme team. This includes leading on the annual work plan in collaboration with Field Managers and the technical team. Work with the Associate Country Director to diversity the funding base through developing existing or new relationships with donors. Coordinate the operations of an emergency response in conjunction with the Technical Coordinators and Field Managers. Ensure that strategic decisions regarding programmes are implemented. Make key decisions in relation to the programme implementation, and offer solutions to problems that arise during the implementation of programmes. Ensure programmes are implemented and evaluated in a consultative and participative manner through regular field visits using accountability framework and related appropriate tools. Ensure effective and high quality reporting, monitoring and evaluation systems reliable for programme decision-making. Review proposal and reports prior to submission to the Associate Country Director for validation. Ensure the Field Managers implement the recommendations provided by the technical coordinators on programme standards and quality. Work with the logistics and HR departments to ensure that adequate means are available to support the field managers to implement good quality programmes. Ensure that performance management is in place and used effectively. Develop performance objectives (Aboras) and appraisals with staff he/she manages. Facilitate regular field trips for supervision and discussion of each programme, define constraints, priorities, plans of action, etc. Deputise for the Associate Country Director whenever requested to do so. Ensure good coordination and coordination between the programme teams and the logistics and finance and administrative teams. Ensure regular and effective communications are maintained within the programme and with the Associate Country Director, and others at Head Office. Work closely with the Finance Department to ensure effective financial and budgetary control of the programmes, according to IO’s policy and procedures. Conduct in-depth assessments in the proposed programme area(s) to inform the humanitarian implementation strategy, keeping in mind operational contexts, IO sectoral competence and security environment. Ensure a high quality, multi-sectoral approach, aiming at reaching Sphere standards, with a strong focus on quality and accountability. Develop and implement a comprehensive work plan for emergency response interventions.

Requirements

Advanced Msc degree in international development studies, Economics, Project Management, humanitarian aid or other related topics. At least 5 years of proven programme management experience, and at least 4 years of senior management experience. Experience in both emergency and development contexts. Experience of working in integrated programs with multiple donors. Proven experience in developing proposals (writing and editing) Knowledge and experience in Formulation, Assessment Monitoring and Evaluation of programmes at country level. Strong international project coordination and management experience, including: project needs assessment, project proposal and logical framework development, and project monitoring and evaluation. Knowledge of the Humanitarian Aid mandate and programme cycle management and planning. Previous experience in leading, managing, and advising teams of staff. Experience in managing budgets from different donors. Experience of contract management of medium-large scale projects . Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Strong analytical and planning skills. Strong English writing skills. Desirable: Amharic Previous experience in the country or in the region. Experience in chairing/ moderating forums and Workshops. Willingness to travel extensively to field sites.

Competencies:

Initiative: availability / learning capacity. Leadership, management and negotiation skills. Strategic thinking and ability to anticipate possible emergencies, etc Ability to organise and plan ahead. Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet deadlines. Ability to look at situations from several points of view. Problem solving skills in day to day and crisis situations. Flexible and adaptable to change. Capacity to manage a team of expatriates and nationals. Willingness and ability to work some weekends, holidays, after hours.

Working Conditions

Annual Gross remuneration: 38.733,76 euros 12 months contract. Medical, life and accident insurance provided. Holidays: 27 working days per year 2014 Working place: Addis Ababa with frequent travel to the field Starting date: 15th October 2014

If interested, please send your application to the follow address: humanitarianstaff@intermonoxfam.org with the subject title Head of Programs Ethiopia and the post reference 43/14-15.

The closing date for applications is the 5th October 2014. Oxfam Intermón reserves the right to change this date, if considered necessary. Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Oxfam Intermón is committed to the principle of equity, diversity and inclusiveness.