Counterpart International Program Representative in Sudan

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 currently seeking a Civil Society Development and Youth Participation Program Representative to be the senior representative of Counterpart and the CSDY program in Nairobi. The goal of CSDY is to promote a viable and increasingly democratic Sudan. The work includes two primary components: (A) promoting and building a vibrant civil society sector through institutional capacity strengthening, networking and access to funding to help civil society organizations (CSOs) address citizen demand for good governance and democratic participation; and (B) providing support for youth-led initiatives and youth engagement in national dialogue for peace and reconciliation, and helping youth access and utilize information for the purpose of reconciliation dialogue, conflict prevention and democratic reform. Counterpart International and IREX will work in partnership with Sudanese civil society to help CSOs and citizens take part in developing local and national solutions to development and reform challenges and build bridges between stakeholders. The consultant will work from residence and, when applicable, at Counterpart’s CSDY Nairobi office for the duration of the assignment.

The consultant will be tasked with establishing a credible organizational and program presence, interfacing with senior USAID Mission leadership, facilitating – with the assistance of a Logistics and Operations Consultant – start-up of a Nairobi office and staff presence, cultivating a relevant network of like-minded organizations and leaders, and working with the CSDY Counterpart HQ leadership team to envision, articulate and execute an accelerated plan for program implementation. The consultant will provide strategic guidance and on-site operational leadership to: a) ramp up program start-up activities to make-up for slow program launch and implementation; and b) propose new activities and innovations, if appropriate, and identify resources and concrete steps to ensure accelerated program implementation for the coming 6 months. The consultant will work with the HQ leadership team and the Logistics & Operations Consultant in Kenya to ensure pace, including fast-track vetting and recruitment of key project staff. Initiative, efficiency and judgment are critical.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: •Review relevant program documents (technical and cost proposals and relevant quarterly reports). •Meet (either in person or via Skype) with HQ leadership team to get oriented to the project, discuss challenges to date, needs and concerns, and brainstorm initial ideas for accelerated program pace. •In collaboration with CSDY HQ staff, develop a program start-up plan and ensure it includes specific actions and activities to escalate establishing program operations in Kenya and implementation of program start-up activities. •Work closely with the Operations & Logistics Consultant in Kenya to fully establish program operations. Guide and ensure the Logistics and Operations Consultant completes tasks, including but not limited to: obtaining quotes from vendors, identifying staff housing and accommodation options for visitors, placing job posting in national dailies, and registration with relevant government agencies.
•Provide strategic guidance to CSDY HQ program and M&E staff and participate in preparing and reviewing program tools and documents including: Year 1 Workplan and Narrative; Year 1 PMEP; Branding Strategy and Marking Plan; Participatory Organizational Development Assessment tool; and Grant solicitation documents. •Participate in vetting of key staff candidates where relevant and as requested by the HQ leadership team (Chief of Party, Director of Civil Society, and Director of Finance and Operations). •In consultation with the CSDY HQ leadership team, coordinate with the USAID East Africa Mission to expedite inclusion of Counterpart on the list of USAID Implementing Partners in Kenya, submission of work permit applications for expat staff and, as needed, report on progress with project start-up activities. •Represent Counterpart and CSDY to USAID Mission leadership, partner organizations, prospective staff, and the Nairobi-based NGO/UN/donor community. •All other duties assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS: •A minimum of 10 years professional experience in international development with 6 or more years of senior management experience in Africa. Experience working in Sudan desirable •Previous Chief or Deputy Chief of Party experience working with civil society organizations, community leaders and youth in the region. •Master’s Degree in Management, Political Science, International Development or a relevant field of study, or equivalent years of work experience. • Demonstrated knowledge of USAID development approaches, techniques and a deep understanding of democracy and governance approaches applicable to the project as well as understanding of USAID rules and regulations and mandatory reporting requirements. • Experience managing complex USAID programs with sub-grants is highly desired. • Prior experience designing and implementing civil society, community and youth development training programs. •Demonstrated knowledge and capabilities in at least 2 of the following areas: civil society capacity development, civic engagement, good governance and community development, peace-building, and gender and youth. •Demonstrated management capability, including experience in managing ‘needs based’ technical assistance and grants programs as well as working with counterparts and multiple stakeholders. •Strong representation and communications skills, including interpersonal and well-written and oral English, to meet the diverse technical and managerial requirements of the program and to effectively coordinate with a wide range of regional stakeholders.

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.