Job Description / Responsibility
Summary:
The American Red Cross (ARC) of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) seeks an experienced and enthusiastic Sr. Program Manager to help manage ARC’s partnership with the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS) and its donors to ensure program quality and accountability of its programs. ARC’s current portfolio is centered on disaster preparedness and response, disaster risk reduction (DRR) and climate change adaptation (CCA), with a strong focus on implementing operations and reducing risks in urban settings. With support from the Regional Representative, the primary function of this position will be to support the maintenance of strong relationships with internal networks (like the Red Cross/Red Crescent Movement) as well as key external stakeholders in Bangladesh (including donors and other partner organizations). The Sr. Program Manager will provide oversight and support to ARC’s programs by providing technical assistance where required, promoting efficient program implementation, and ensuring overall accountability to donors and the communities ARC aims to serve. In addition, the Sr. Program Manager will contribute to the development of the portfolio of program in Bangladesh through the development of ideas, concept notes, and project proposals.
The position will be based in Dhaka and report to ARC’s South Asia Regional Representative. While the initial contract is intended as a full-time post for one-year duration, an extension of time, based on performance, is possible and desired (albeit contingent on funding availability).
Responsibilities:
In consultation with ARC headquarters and the South Asia Regional Representative and in alignment with the region’s strategic vision, support program design and detailed planning of project activities.
Oversee programs implemented by BDRCS, in coordination with IFRC staff, and work in accordance with agreed plans and budgets.
Proactively identify problems, develop innovative solutions, and strive to maintain momentum to field practices and ARC projects.
Actively network with other organizations and across sectors to establish links, identify opportunities for cooperation, and share key messages from ARC’s urban based programs in Dhaka.
Assist in identifying capacity building needs within the project team (ARC/IFRC/BDRCS). Collaborate on the design and conduct capacity building activities as needed. This may include skills development in specific technical areas as well as in reporting, program management, M&E and gender issues.
Provide oversight of work plans and financial reports from partner and prepare regular reports on program implementation including information on current and projected progress and expenditures for donors.
Assist with the development of the new concept notes and project proposals to build the Bangladesh portfolio of programs.
Liaise with implementing partners and government counterparts to coordinate activities and strengthen relationships.
Identify opportunities and prepare descriptions of success stories as part of overall communications strategy including development of infographics or other tools for communicating about project successes or learning.
Support South Asia Regional Representative in regional strategy and program development as required for countries outside Bangladesh.
Facilitate arrangements for official visitors, host site tours for official visitors.
Job Nature
Full-time
Educational Requirements
Master’s degree in a related field (e.g., DM, international development, public policy, business) or related experience
Minimum five years relevant experience
Experience Requirements
Minimum 5 year(s)
Additional Job Requirements
Demonstrated working experience with international projects including work planning and implementation management
Proven record of effective teamwork across multiple organizations and stakeholders at both local and national levels
Proven record of proposal development
Knowledge of DRR/CCA tools, training materials and activity content not essential but is preferred
Knowledge of GIS/Open Data not essential but is preferred.
A background or experience in gender and gender analysis to take into consideration the differing needs of men and women, would be an advantage
Excellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skills in English and fluency in Bengali
Proficient in MS Office package and other software packages (Adobe Creative Suites, etc. an asset).
Other Benefits
The American Red Cross of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer.
Applicants should send a current resume and a cover letter containing the name and contact details of 3 references as well an indication of salary expectations to the Head of Delegation, IFRC Bangladesh Delegation, E-mail: Bangladesh.delegation@ifrc.org by May 10, 2015.
Only qualified candidates will be contacted.