Chiefs of Party (COPs)/Project Directors/Team Leaders for anticipated USAID/FCDO projects job at International Rescue Committee (IRC)

About the Organization

The International Rescue Committee is a global humanitarian aid, relief, and development nongovernmental organization.

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. The International Rescue Committee provides vital support to Ugandans who are rebuilding from decades of war while hosting a growing influx of refugees from South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Founded in 1933, the International Rescue Committee (www.rescue.org) is a world leader in relief, rehabilitation and post-conflict development services for those uprooted or affected by violent conflict and oppression. The IRC is currently working in over 40 countries around the world, addressing both the immediate and lifesaving needs of conflict affected people in emergencies and the reconstruction needs of post-conflict societies.

The IRC began programming in northern Uganda in 1998 in response to mass displacement and devastation wrought by rebel group, the Lord’s Resistance Army. In 2002, the IRC expanded to the remote, conflict-affected region of Karamoja and in 2011, began working with refugees in Kampala. Monitoring the influx of South Sudanese refugees at the end of 2015, the IRC began scaling up its response to refugees arriving in the West Nile region. By promoting durable solutions that deliver on the interdependent aims of saving lives, strengthening institutions, and supporting social cohesion, the IRC in Uganda is laying the building blocks for long-term stability and development –bringing people from harm to home. The IRC currently works in 9 districts in Uganda, including Kitgum, Lamwo, Kyegegwa, Moroto, Amudat, Yumbe, Arua, Kasese and Kampala.

Job Description

The international Rescue Committee (IRC) is continuously in search of exceptional leaders to spearhead our donor-funded projects in the Crisis, Response, Recovery and Development (CRRD) unit focused on Education, Health, Climate Change, Economic well-being, Governance, Violence prevention, Women Protection and Empowerment. We are deeply committed to making a meaningful impact in these sectors globally, both in development and humanitarian contexts.

Our aim is to build strong relationships, fostering partnerships with local organizations and stakeholders, in anticipation of future opportunities with potential Chiefs of Party/Project Directors/Team Leaders for upcoming USAID/FCDO multi-year, multi-million-dollar international development projects. By engaging with local partners, we seek to enhance project sustainability, cultural relevance, and community impact, ensuring a holistic approach to development initiatives. As such, we actively seek to connect with professionals with outstanding leadership, strategic thinking, organizational and representational skills. We are eager to hear from senior leaders with:
• Chief Of Party/ Project Director/Team Leader experience
• 8 - 10years experience leading project design and delivery within fragile or conflict context.
• Demonstrable experience leading USAID/FCDO donor funded projects, preferably commercial contracts.
• Experience managing consortia of international or local partners.

These roles will be based in host countries, dependent on the location of the funding opportunity. Further details on contract type, salary and benefits package will be provided to selected candidates. IRC offers attractive packages to expats and locals.
We are also keen to hear from local candidates who can spearhead our projects. We believe this approach will leverage local expertise, foster community ownership and sustainability, and optimize resources for greater impact in IRC’s efforts. At IRC, we are deeply committed to Diversity, Equality, and Inclusion, recognizing the invaluable contributions that individuals from diverse backgrounds bring to our projects. Our commitment extends to providing lifesaving assistance and support to vulnerable populations globally, with a focus on upholding humanitarian principles and promoting human dignity.

Duties and Responsibilities

Leadership and Management:

Project Oversight: Leading the overall planning, implementation, and management of the project.
Team Leadership: Supervising and mentoring project staff, including technical experts, administrative staff, and local partners.
Strategic Direction: Providing strategic vision and direction for the project, ensuring alignment with donor goals and objectives.

Program Implementation:

Work Plan Development: Developing detailed project work plans, ensuring that all activities are aligned with project goals and timelines.
Activity Coordination: Coordinating the implementation of project activities across various components and geographical areas.
Quality Assurance: Ensuring high-quality delivery of project outputs and outcomes through effective monitoring and evaluation.

Financial and Administrative Oversight
Budget Management: Overseeing the project budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness and adherence to financial guidelines.
Compliance: Ensuring compliance with donor regulations, local laws, and organizational policies.
Reporting: Preparing and submitting timely and accurate financial and programmatic reports to donors and stakeholders.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Partner Collaboration: Building and maintaining strong relationships with project stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, community groups, and private sector partners.
Donor Liaison: Serving as the primary point of contact with USAID/FCDO, ensuring effective communication and coordination.
Advocacy: Representing the project at meetings, conferences, and other forums to advocate for project goals and share successes.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

M&E Systems: Establishing and overseeing monitoring and evaluation systems to track project progress and impact.
Data Utilization: Using data to inform project decision-making and improve program effectiveness.
Learning: Facilitating learning and adaptation processes within the project to ensure continuous improvement.

Technical Expertise:

Subject Matter Knowledge: Providing technical guidance and expertise in the project’s focus areas (e.g., health, education, agriculture).
Capacity Building: Strengthening the capacities of local partners and stakeholders through training and technical assistance.

Qualification, Experiences and Competencies

Educational Qualifications:

Advanced Degree: Typically required, such as a Master’s degree or higher in a relevant field (e.g., International Development, Public Health, Education, Business Administration).
Relevant Certifications: Additional certifications in project management (e.g., PMP, PRINCE2) or technical areas may be advantageous.

Professional Experience:

Senior Management Experience: Significant experience (usually 10+ years) in managing large-scale international development projects.
USAID/FCDO Experience: Prior experience working with USAID/FCDO-funded projects is often required, including familiarity with their regulations and procedures.
Technical Expertise: Proven expertise in the project's focus area(s) (e.g., economic development, governance, humanitarian assistance).

Skills and Competencies:

Leadership Skills: Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and guide diverse teams.

Strategic Thinking: Ability to develop and implement strategic plans and adapt to changing circumstances.

Financial Acumen: Proficiency in budget management and financial oversight.

Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including report writing and presentation abilities.

Stakeholder Engagement: Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.

Personal Attributes:

Cultural Sensitivity: Ability to work effectively in diverse cultural settings and respect for local customs and practices.
Problem-Solving: Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to handle complex project challenges.
Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to changing project needs and donor requirements.

Technical Skills:

Project Management Tools: Proficiency in project management software and tools.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Experience in designing and implementing M&E frameworks.

Key Competencies

Results-Oriented: Focused on achieving project goals and delivering high-quality results.
Accountability: Demonstrating accountability and transparency in all project activities.
Innovation: Encouraging innovative approaches and solutions to project challenges.
Collaboration: Promoting collaboration and partnership with stakeholders and team members.