Counterpart International Civil Society Program Director

Counterpart International is a global development organization that empowers people and communities to implement innovative and enduring solutions to social, economic, and environmental challenges. For nearly 50 years, Counterpart has been forging partnerships with communities in need to address complex problems related to economic development, food security and nutrition, and building effective governance and institutions.

For more information visit www.Counterpart.org

SUMMARY:
Counterpart International is recruiting a Civil Society Program Director for a 3-year $12 million program in the Republic of Sudan that aims to broaden the base and capacity of civil society actors and networks, increase civic engagement, and promote peace and democratic governance. Technical assistance will target women and youth, promote access to information, facilitate consensus building, help mitigate conflict, and build bridges between civil society, government and the private sector, especially in marginalized areas. The Program Director will provide technical leadership in capacity building for civil society organizations (CSOs) in addition to managing the technical aspects of partner selection, grant making, technical assistance, and training activities. The Director will supervise the Program and Grants Team. S/he will work closely with the Finance team to ensure sound financial oversight of the grants program. The Director will support the Chief of Party with overall project and staff management responsibilities and external representation as required. This position will be based in Nairobi with frequent travel to Sudan and other countries within the region, including possible relocation to Khartoum.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
• Lead design, implementation and monitoring of the civil society strengthening component of the program, an integrated package of network-building, grants, technical assistance, training, intra-regional mentoring and study exchanges, and targeted organizational development support to Sudanese CSOs and their leadership.
• Direct and oversee Sudanese CSO partner selection and the provision of institutional, technical, material and financial support in accordance with the approved Program Description.
• Provide specialized technical assistance and guidance to project staff and Sudanese CSO leadership on organizational development (OD) and capacity building, strategic planning, service provision, advocacy, outreach, and civic engagement.
• Convene Sudanese grantees and CSO stakeholders in Sudan or other countries in the region for program-related workshops, study tours, and stakeholder meetings.
• Facilitate learning of regional best practices for citizen engagement and effective CSO leadership, including identifying opportunities for mentoring, exchange programs and other capacity building activities.
• Oversee the OD, M&E, Advocacy, Community Engagement and Grants Officers directly supporting CSO capacity building activities.
• Establish a strong cohort of Sudanese CSOs to engage policy makers on governance reform issues.
• Continuously assess the civil society environment and identify factors with strategic implications for program execution.
• Provide strategic direction for the civil society strengthening component of the program, identifying mechanisms to sustain the project through national and regional linkages, networks/associations and lead partner capacity building.
• Ensure the highest quality of program monitoring, evaluation, reporting and communications.
• Oversee the CSO grant-making process from start to finish, including selection and award of grants, negotiating grant agreements, implementation of sub-grant activities, and grant close-out.
• Ensure that Counterpart and USAID rules and regulations vis-à-vis grants management are followed
• Provide mentoring and professional development support to project staff, with emphasis on building capacity of national staff.

QUALIFICATIONS:
• A graduate degree in international development, development management, political science, business administration, or other relevant field of study preferred.
• A minimum of 7-10 years directly relevant international or regional professional experience working with CSOs and governments, including at least 5 years in senior management positions.
• A minimum of 7 years’ demonstrated and substantial expertise in civil society strengthening/training/governance work. Experience in Sudan desirable but not required. Recognized industry leadership.
• Specialized skills in CSO capacity building, mentoring, training, technical assistance, and curriculum development.
• Previous USAID-funded program and grants management experience strongly preferred.
• English fluency required (oral and written); fluency in Arabic preferred but not required.
• Strong communications skills: ability to effectively communicate with and coordinate a wide range of regional stakeholders.
• Ability to work under pressure, both independently and as an effective team member.
• Analytical and problem-solving ability.
• Proven ability to mentor and build staff skills.
• Ability to secure a visa/work permit for Kenya/Sudan.

How to apply:

Please apply online at www.Counterpart.org. No calls or emails please.
Counterpart is an equal opportunity employer. Women, minorities, veterans and the physically challenged are encouraged to apply.