Program Manager, Caribbean

Transcription

1 44 Eccles Street Suite 200, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K1R 6S4 - Tel.: (613) Fax/Télécopieur : (613) hr@cusointernational.org Location: Reports to: Status: Program Manager, Caribbean Band: 4 Language requirements: English Georgetown, Guyana Regional Representative, Caribbean National, Full time fixed term contract (linked to funding) SUMMARY Cuso International is a development organization that works to reduce poverty and inequality through the efforts of highly skilled volunteers, collaborative partnerships and compassionate donors. We envision a world where all people are able to realize their potential, develop their skills and participate fully in society. We believe in the power of people, value diversity and take responsibility for our actions and proactively demonstrate that we work with and on behalf of others. Cuso international works in developing countries across the world. We currently have programs in 18 countries. Our program in the Caribbean is managed as one country. There are established programs in Jamaica and Guyana with specific in-country programs being phased out in Belize, Dominica, Grenada and St. Lucia. We are going to develop partnerships with regional institutions to allow us to have an impact across the region with the resources we have. The post holder will have the key role in leading and developing the program in the Caribbean with a focus on inclusive sustainable economic growth (ISEG) and gender and social inclusion (GESI). This will include identifying and developing strategic partnerships with government, corporate sector, civil society and donors; designing program implementation strategies; developing volunteer placements and supporting them; building networks, seek and win funding and be responsible for the overall management of the Guyana office and staff. The post holder will also work with the Regional Representative and other field and HQ based staff to actively promote work of Cuso international to a variety of audiences. The Cuso International office in Georgetown will be staffed by the Program Manager and the Program Support/Finance Officer (PSFO) and line managed and supported by the Regional Representative based in in Georgetown, Guyana. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES AND DELIVERABLES Program Development & Delivery

2 s Develop projects in the area of ISEG (including employment, entrepreneurship, value chain) and GESI (with a focus on marginalized groups, including youth and women); and support the development of ISEG and GESI work across Cuso International. Analyze and maintain an in-depth understanding of the development context and key stakeholders in the Caribbean. Produce and or contribute to sector strategic plans with clear key performance indicators, implementation plans and revise same on an annual basis. Working in collaboration and in consultation with Cuso International s local partners, volunteers and other stakeholders, identify relevant development interventions (e.g. donor opportunities, grants, International, Diaspora, and National volunteering, advocacy, partnerships, etc.) to deliver established strategic and implementation plans. Wherever relevant, ensure cross-cutting themes such as gender, social inclusion and/or governance and/or environment, are mainstreamed in programming initiatives. Ensure the smooth-functioning of volunteer placement development and volunteer management systems and processes, within the Guyana Office and with other Cuso International staff and teams outside of country. With support of Regional Representative and Field/HQ based MEAL staff ensure gender sensitive monitoring and evaluation systems are in place understood by partners and volunteers and all relevant deadlines and reports are produced in a timely manner. Ensure the impact of Cuso International s ISEG and GESI work and issues arising are captured and promoted into relevant practice and policy debates. In collaboration with Jamaica office staff, local partners, volunteers and other stakeholders, foster and promote a culture of ongoing learning from successes and failures. Partnership and Resource Development and Management Strategic and productive partnerships with government, corporate sector, civil society and donors are identified and developed and enable Cuso International to grow its ISEG and GESI work, in Guyana and the Caribbean with the resources available. Seek out and actively participate in Guyana based, and where appropriate regional networks, coalitions, alliances, meetings, forums, debates or any other event pertaining to the ISEG and GESI work of Cuso International in the Caribbean region and where it is possible to champion/represent Cuso International s programs and projects with donors, other agencies, relevant government officials, partners etc. Working in close collaboration with the Regional Representative and field/hq based funding staff, identify sector specific funding and/or partnership opportunities and take a lead role in following these up in a timely manner. Work with the Regional Representative to develop a Caribbean project/sector resource development funding strategy. Feed sector specific information in annual and revised budget setting and work with the Regional Representative and finance staff to monitor performance to budget taking appropriate action to remedy any variance. When necessary, represent and/or present Cuso international s work and impact, in meetings, conferences, workshops or any other appropriate forum. As necessary, lead or contribute to the development of concept notes and proposals.

3 Develop realistic program or project plans and budgets, ensuring compliance with donor requirements. Act as the primary resource person within the country, for sharing and providing information on Cuso International s ISEG and GESI work. Volunteer and Placement Management Cuso International s volunteers working in the Caribbean are adequately supported in their placements and working effectively with their local partner organizations. Volunteers are engaged in all aspects of program development, including helping to set priorities, supporting funding and/or partnership opportunities etc. Plan and develop relevant and coherent volunteer placement documentation that clearly link to project strategic goals. Ensure relationships and communication between the Guyana office staff and volunteers are cooperative and professional. Ensure excellent communication channels between the Guyana office staff and other Cuso International staff in regional and North American offices, so that placement and program information is flowing between all parties and deadlines are being met by all stakeholders. Working closely with the PSFO, participate in the development of volunteer in-country orientations upon arrival, facilitating some of the learning and orientation events as appropriate. Support volunteers to understand local context, how change happens and how gender inequalities operate in local context. Keep abreast of volunteer s progress and/or challenges in their placements and support any learning or professional development they may require to achieve their objectives. Engage volunteers in program planning, development and resource diversification, as appropriate. Assist the PSFO in handling any volunteer or partner complaints, conducting investigations where necessary; participate in discussions where policies and procedures do not offer a proper resolution to a volunteer s concern or situation, involving the Regional Representative as necessary. Work with the Regional Representative to ensure emergency and risk-management plan developed at the country-level, is well-communicated, implemented and reviewed on a regular basis, covering the safety and security of volunteers and Jamaica office staff. Keep the Regional Representative informed of any potential security threat, whether low, medium or high, at all times. Office and Staff Management Effective management of the Program Support and Finance Officer in Guyana as per Cuso International performance management processes. Effective management of the office and implementation of office, administration, health and security, finance, budget and logistical systems. Supervise the work of the PSFO to ensure proper administration and management of Cuso International s finances and volunteer support. Performance manage, provide regular feedback, supervise and support the PSFO.

4 Ensure all Cuso International administration, health and security, volunteer support and logistic systems are in place, understood, properly implemented and followed by staff, volunteers and partners. Ensure Country Program Office compliance with record-keeping guidelines and filing of sensitive employee, volunteer, partner and donor information. Actively encourage a cost effective and efficient approach to use and expenditure of all Cuso International resources including of finance and IT. Other duties Participate in country and regional or global wide staff meetings, as appropriate. Provide feedback to other Cuso International colleagues, when systems and processes could be enhanced to be more effective and user-friendly. Fulfill any other responsibilities as may be assigned from time to time Regional Representative, Head of Programs or Director of International Programs. Take responsibility to ensure ongoing professional and personal learning. Provide cover for other colleagues, as necessary. POSITION QUALIFICATIONS Essential Education A University degree in a field relevant to the duties of this position, and/or a relevant combination of studies and experience. Knowledge An excellent understanding and experience of ISEG and GESI across the Caribbean, as well excellent knowledge of social and economic challenges in the Caribbean development context. Excellent understanding of the Project Cycle, its tools and phases and at least three (3) years experience planning, resourcing, monitoring and implementing development projects. An appreciation of role and impact of volunteering as a contribution to international development. Experience Experience working with and coordinating various actors across multiple islands in the Caribbean, including excellent knowledge of Caribbean regional bodies and agencies (e.g. CARICOM). At least three (3) years experience working within development programs, at the community level in the Caribbean. A proven track record of successfully securing external funding for development programs and projects including the development of coherent and strong proposals and concept notes. Experience developing and managing budgets and creating financial reports. Proven commitment to mainstreaming gender and equality issues within work and ability to coach and mentor others in this aspect of performance. Skills Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal and the ability to use different communication media effectively, including , telephone, SKYPE, and written correspondence. Good public speaking abilities and presentation skills. Excellent interpersonal skills, including the ability to negotiate, persuade, listen, coach, mobilize and develop positive relationships with others internally and externally.

5 Excellent time-management skills and prioritization skills. Computer and Internet proficiency (all Microsoft Office tools, databases, web research, web-based tools and transactions, etc.). Abilities Fluency in English written and spoken. Ability to empathize with others and work well and respectfully as part of a diverse team, and in cross-cultural contexts. Ability to work flexibly as part of a team to ensure the objectives of the program are achieved. Ability to respond to emergency situations i.e. medical emergencies, civil unrest, assaults etc. Excellent problem-solving abilities, finding innovative solutions to difficult and complex challenges and the ability to persevere to find a resolution. Willingness and ability to travel both within country and internationally spending up to 8 weeks a year away from home. Other Willingness to work irregular hours of work and extra hours, in order to successfully meet deliverables. Valid driver s license and clear driving record. Desirable Experience volunteering, working with or managing volunteers. Knowledge of the Development and Socio-Political context of Latin American and other countries where Cuso International works. HOW TO APPLY Your application should be forwarded to hr.lac@cusointernational.org with the competition number: Program Manager, Caribbean , clearly marked as the subject. Applications consisting of a four (4) page cv and one (1) page application letter should be received no later than Friday, June 3 rd, 2016 Eastern Time. No late application will be considered. To be considered, your résumé and cover letter should demonstrate that all of the essential qualifications are met. Failure to demonstrate how you meet the requirements of the position will result in not being considered.