Fresh Jobs at Save the Children

Location: Southern Nigeria

Job Description

• Save the Children is seeking an experienced Monitoring & Evaluation Director for an anticipated USAID/PEPFAR-funded project providing support to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Nigeria.
• The Monitoring & Evaluation Director (M&E) will be responsible for leading the design and implementation of the program monitoring plan, evaluation framework and management information system to track delivery against outputs, outcomes and impacts.
• S/he will lead analysis of data collected for the assessment of progress and improvements.
• S/he will also guide reporting processes amongst technical staff and consolidate program reports, promote learning and knowledge sharing of best practices and lessons learnt and the use of data for programmatic improvement.
• S/he will support technical staff in M&E functions and will manage any M&E related staff in the project.
• This is a leadership role and will serve as a key member of the project team.
• The goal of the five-year project is to reduce HIV impact, vulnerability and risk, as well as increase high impact HIV services to improve the well-being of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in southern Nigeria.
• Overall, the project seeks to improve health, nutrition, psycho-social well-being and educational outcomes; and reduced abuse of children affected by HIV.
• This position is contingent upon donor approval and funding.

Responsibilities
Development of Project Monitoring and Evaluation Systems:

• Lead the design and implementation of the program monitoring plan.
• Develop a system for capturing and documenting data and relevant information on project activities, beneficiaries, outputs, outcomes, and impact, which is feasible, practical, and “user friendly”, and will obtain valid and reliable information.
• Develop the projects Performance Monitoring Plan based on USAID reporting requirements.
• Ensure that systems developed capture both quantitative and qualitative information to measure results as detailed in the Project’s Results Framework.
• Ensure an effective rollout of M&E collection and reporting systems to all staff and partners through training, site visits, manuals, and other technical support as needed.  Ensure systems are well understood and properly implemented by staff and partners.
• Develop and train relevant staff and partners on data collection tools, additional program assessments, analytic plans and study protocols as necessary.
• Ensure that systems developed capture appropriate cost and financial information to enable development and tracking of value for money indicators over the project, including benchmarking information to analyze program effectiveness and cost effective inputs.
• Ensure that all tools accommodate different levels of expertise and computer literacy, from community groups, to partners, to project staff.
• Set up and maintain the routine data flow and reporting schedule, providing technical assistance and support to ensure a system for the collection of quality data is maintained and data is used to inform programmatic decisions.
• Ensure that routine monitoring data is shared with implementation team and partners, and facilitate program learning processes to support evidence-based program adaptation.

Implementation of Project Progress and Quality Monitoring Systems:

• Working with partners and state teams, ensure that all information and data is collected, documented, and collated in an accurate and timely manner.
• Conduct periodic supportive supervision and Data Quality Assessment visits to state teams, partners, and communities and ensure results for improvement are shared with all stakeholders in project implementation
• Ensure that information is shared with communities, children, and other stakeholders through a regular feedback mechanism.
• Support Program Management to ensure programming quality is constantly audited and meets/exceeds requirements.
• Serve as the SCI Nigeria’s project contact person on SIMS and other assessment as may be instituted by USAID
• Support the management of the SCI Complaint and Response Mechanisms and accountability assessments
• Coordinate Project Evaluations, Assessments, Operations Research and Other Studies
• Design and execute program assessments and evaluations to learn from program data.
• Initiate and lead dissemination of program data to promote data use and establish processes for the routine analysis and use of data for program improvements.
• Participate in forums to disseminate best practices and lessons learned.

Manage Project Databases:

• Facilitate trainings on using project/USAID approved databases and software (DHIS2, NOMIS).
• Monitor roll out and functionality of databases across implementing CSOs.
• Institute Functional Reporting, Knowledge Management and Learning Platforms
• Prepare high quality, accurate and timely monthly reports for Save the Children Nigeria, project partners and donors.
• Design and develop information products to disseminate project progress (Programs Review Presentation, M&E Bulletin)
• Coordinate monthly project review and learning meetings with consortium partners and CSOs.

M&E Capacity Strengthening:

• Provide on-going support to state teams, partners, and communities to maintain M&E systems; identify skill gaps to address in subsequent refresher trainings.
• Ensure regular reviews of the M&E system; make improvements as needed in consultation with managers, staff, and partners.
• Ensure that the project’s M&E system is integrated with overall M&E systems for the SC Nigeria Country Program.
• Identify the need for additional technical support to ensure effective program delivery and coordinate support allocation.

Requirements

• Advanced Degree in Statistics, Mathematics, Social Sciences, Public Health, Business, Informatics, International Relations or other relevant discipline.
• Advanced training in quantitative methodologies, including database management; experience in qualitative research techniques a plus
• Minimum of seven years’ experience, of which at least three years at a senior level, in designing and implementing monitoring and evaluation activities for complex programs in developing countries.  Previous experience on USAID programs and health or social welfare-focused programs preferred.
• Demonstrated experience and understanding of PEPFAR MER Indicators, particularly OVC outcomes indicators and PEPFAR 3.0.
• Demonstrated experience in setting up and managing M&E systems that track performance as per the objectives of this project (e.g., OVC services, performance against each result area).
• Experience developing and refining data collection tools.
• Experience in cost benefit analysis, economic appraisal or other value for money methodologies.
• Experience designing, implementing and analyzing research protocols, including both quantitative and qualitative research methods and an understanding of the ethical considerations necessary for research.
• Knowledge of the major evaluation methodologies (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, mixed-method, and impact) and data collection and analysis methodologies.
• Ability to build support from staff across teams and across members, and to build the capacity of others.
• Proven ability to coordinate effective resource allocation to ensure quality programmes.
• Sound strategic thinking and planning skills, including ability to think creatively and innovate and to set priorities, manageable work plans and evaluate progress.
• Strong communications skills (both written and verbal); ability to analyze complex data and summarize it for a range of audiences.
• Experience working within budget constraints.
• Commitment to SC’s mission, values and approach (includes child protection, equal opportunities, health, and safety).

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Requisition Num: DEPUT01312

Job Description

• Save the Children (SC) is seeking a Deputy Chief of Party for an anticipated USAID/PEPFAR-funded project providing support to orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in Nigeria.
• The DCOP will work with Save the Children’s existing country office, and will provide operational leadership to support the direct implementation of program activities.
• The DCOP will oversee the overall operations and ensure the smooth running of a complex, multi-layered project by managing systems, staff and building capacity that support the results of the project.
• As the DCOP, s/he is also responsible for supporting the Chief of Party (COP) in the overall management of the project.
• In collaboration with the COP, s/he will maintain close liaison with USAID, Save the Children offices, various line ministries and partners as needed.
• Additionally, s/he will coordinate and manage district implementation, grants/finance, operations, and management information functions of the project.
• S/he will lead the operations, finance and support services project team and be responsible for working with the country office for the financial and grants management, HR, administration, IT, logistics and procurement of the project.
• The goal of the five-year project is to reduce HIV impact, vulnerability and risk, as well as increase high impact HIV services to improve the well-being of orphans and vulnerable children (OVC) in southern Nigeria.
• Overall, the project seeks to improve health, nutrition, psycho-social well-being and educational outcomes; and reduced abuse of children affected by HIV.
• This position is contingent upon donor approval and funding.

Responsibilities

• The DCOP will liaise closely with USAID, Government of Nigeria, Save the Children’s Headquarters and Country Office, as well as partner organizations. Key responsibilities include:
• Assist the COP with annual planning processes, in close collaboration with program teams;
• In collaboration with the program leadership team and implementing partners, lead the development of, budgeting and management processes ensuring results-oriented, efficient program operations at implementation level, including processes for the periodic review of implementation across districts and facilitate necessary mid-course corrections;
• Participate in the leadership team meetings and contribute to the program level management decision-making;
• Along with the COP, ensure appropriate project organizational structures are in place to ensure the most efficient and effective implementation of program activities;
• In collaboration with the COP, represent the program in appropriate technical and managerial advisory groups with government stakeholders and with USAID;
• Provide leadership and technical expertise to develop capacity of local civil society organizations (NGOs and CBOS) and local government entities (state level and district level representatives of the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare);
• Directly manage staff included in the operational team including finance, operations, support functions and M&E;
• Work with the SC country office grants, finance, administration and human resource units to ensure systems are in place for the most effective program implementation with regards to M&E, financial management and compliance with all donor requirements;
• Adherence to SC operational procedures and guidelines;
• Act as the Chief of Party during his/her absence;

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Public Health, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Social Work or related field such as social work, child protection, OVC programs, and HIV/AIDS, and organizational capacity building.
• Minimum of ten years of field-based experience working on large and complex overseas, multi-partner development programs, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa, with a preference for Nigerian experience.
• At least five years of experience in designing, managing, and supporting the implementation of national program activities related to OVC programs, quality improvement, and community mobilization and institutional capacity building for local government entities and civil society.
• Familiarity with the Nigerian terrain (especially south southern Nigeria) and workings of GON at national and sub-national level
• Demonstrated senior management experience of large scale USAID funded project(s).
• Demonstrated knowledge of USAID rules, regulations and policies, with specific understanding of PEPFAR 3.0 guidelines.
• Knowledge and skills related to monitoring and evaluation of institutional and community capacity building activities, and familiarity with participatory and qualitative research methods for health in developing countries.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in team situations.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Nigerian candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

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Overall Description

• The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) for Programmes will be responsible for the provision of technical leadership and expertise for the anticipated large-scale program focused on Orphans and Vulnerable Children in Nigeria.
• The program will reflect the objectives of the PEPFAR strategy with respect to care and support for orphans and other vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS.
• The program will be responsible for ensuring:
  • Coordinated national response to OVC service provision, monitoring and evaluation
  • Coordination and collaboration with GoN entities at the Federal and State level (Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, National Agency for the Control of AIDS , Ministry of Health ) and other implementing partners; and
  • Support districts to implement and monitor OVC support including issues of quality, coverage, and improvements in well being of children.
• S/he will develop technical strategies and will oversee and guide the implementation of program activities across the all target geographic areas and will provide expert technical guidance related to the mitigation of the impact of HIV/AIDS on children, family and communities in Nigeria.
• The DCOP will be responsible for technical quality assurance, so that the project is in line with and advances the state of the art and achieves the program objectives and expected results; and will lead and oversee monitoring and evaluation of the project.
• S/he will represent the program in related technical fora and will provide overall coordination of technical capacity building of government and civil society partners.
• The DCOP will have sufficient experience to serve as the Chief of Party during absences of the incumbent.
• S/he will maintain close liaison with USAID, Save the Children offices, and partners as needed and will work with the COP to ensure the timely submission of all deliverables to USAID, including annual work plans and performance monitoring plans.
• This is a senior leadership role and will serve as a key member of the project team; the DCOP will report directly to the COP.
• The DCOP will coordinate and maintain close liaison with project partners and with relevant stakeholders.

Qualifications

• Master's Degree in Public Health or a related professional advanced degree
• At least ten years of experience in public health, including at least four years of experience in multi-sectoral care and support for OVC and persons living with HIV/AIDS
• At least seven years of experience in a field-based management position for a complex, multi-sectoral, public health and/or international development USAID/PEFPAR project, preferably in Sub-Saharan Africa in general. Specific experience in Nigeria desirable.
• The ability to manage a program of similar magnitude and complexity; work collaboratively across technical disciplines
• Solid knowledge and understanding of current good practices in OVC programming.
• Strong communication skills - both verbally and in writing, with proficiency in English
• Proven expertise in developing and implementing effective partnerships with private sector entities
• Proven experience in designing, implementing and monitoring capacity strengthening approaches for government and civil society partners
• Proven experience mentoring and strengthening technical skills of staff.
• Proven ability in promoting and collaborating closely with multi-level stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in team situations
• The ability to travel extensively to locations within/outside Nigeria as required.

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Primary Purpose

• The Director of Organizational Development/Capacity Development will provide technical leadership, assistance and management oversight for the future OVC Umbrella Grant OVC Program in Nigeria, funded by PEPFAR.
• This will include development of global, regional (state), and country-level community and institutional capacity strengthening strategies and plans, technical assistance during implementation, and monitoring and measuring of performance related to community and institutional development indicators.
• The Director will work closely with the Chief of Party (direct supervisor) and Director of Programs in developing and implementing the  institutional capacity components of the OVC Umbrella Grant Program to ultimately lead for local NGOs to closely collaborate with local government structures to deliver quality OVC programs.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Play a leadership role in the development of the Program strategies and plans to strengthen the capacity of local and regional partners (local government entities and civil society) to design, implement and evaluate quality OVC programs
• Provide leadership and technical expertise to guide the development of local civil society organizations (NGOs and CBOS)  and Local Government entities (state level and district level representatives of the Ministry of Women, Children and Social Welfare in integrating quality improvement processes in program implementation.
• Lead the development of organizational assessments of local government entities and NGOs to develop an innovative capacity building plan to lead district and state level GoN entities and  local organizations into becoming “transformative leaders” in OVC programs.
• Facilitate and develop coaching/mentoring mechanisms and models to facilitate organizational changes resulting in programs to deliver comprehensive coordinated care at community level.
• Identify gaps in organizational structures (governance, strategic planning, financial systems, management and operations, monitoring and evaluations) and identify best resources available within Nigeria and across countries to address the identified gaps.
• Provide hands-on technical assistance to field programs in developing and implementing country level community mobilization and institutional strengthening plans in support of Program strategic objectives.
• Coordinate the development of tools, methods, and materials (e.g., field guides, interactive CD-ROM/videos, bulletins, etc.) needed by field-based programs to plan, implement, and evaluate community and institutional capacity strengthening activities.
• Develop and apply tools and techniques for monitoring performance and impact related to community and institutional capacity strengthening.
• Document and disseminate Program capacity strengthening field experience to assist organizational learning and to contribute to the growing organizational development  literature in the field of OVC programs
• Participate in relevant task forces and committees to further interagency coordination, understanding, and application of organizational capacity strengthening and quality improvement processes in  theory and practice

Background and Experience

• Background in OVC programs and social sciences - community development, anthropology, psychology, organizational development/management, education, etc.) with a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience living/working in developing countries. 
• Hands-on experience in designing, managing, and supporting the implementation of national program activities related to OVC programs, quality improvement, and community mobilization and institutional capacity building for local government entities and civil society.  
• Experience in providing technical assistance and support to Government (ministries in charge of OVC programs, PVOs, NGOs, and other counterpart organizations engaged in OVC programming in developing countries.

Knowledge and Skills:

• Advanced degree in public health, with expertise in social work, child protection, OVC programs, and HIV/AIDS, and organizational capacity building. 
• State-of-the-art knowledge and skills related to the theory and practice of institutional and community capacity, quality improvement processes especially as it relates to improving quality of OVC programs.  
• Knowledge and skills related to monitoring and evaluation of institutional and community capacity building activities, and familiarity with participatory and qualitative research methods for health in developing countries.
• English fluency,  facilitation skills, knowledge of adult learning theory and methodology, training skills, and organizational development knowledge and skills.

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Role Summary

• The Chief of Party (COP) will work with Save the Children’s existing country office in Nigeria, but will be solely responsible for overall management of the USAID Cooperative Agreement for the anticipated Orphans and Vulnerable Children Program.
• S/he will provide strategic and operational leadership to develop and implement a successful and integrated multi-sectoral program that builds upon existing USAID/PEPFAR and GON investment and that will achieve memorable outcomes in the mitigation of the impact of HIV/AIDS on children, families and communities in Nigeria.
• The program will reflect the objectives of the PEPFAR strategy with respect to care and support for orphans and other vulnerable children affected by HIV/AIDS.
• The program will be responsible for ensuring a) coordinated national response to OVC service provision, monitoring and evaluation b) coordination and collaboration with GoN entities at the Federal and State level (Ministry of Women and Social Affairs, National  Agency for the Control of AIDS, Ministry of Health) and other implementing partners; and build local capacity of organizations and government bodies to support districts and communities to implement and monitor OVC support including issues of quality, coverage, and improvements in wellbeing of children. 
• To this end, the COP will liaise closely with USAID/Nigeria Government of Nigeria representatives, Save the Children’s Office of HIV/AIDS and Africa Area and Country Offices, and partner organizations.
• The COP will be the principal representative of the project. 
• The COP will ensure adherence to overall technical and programmatic quality in implementation, compliance with USAID rules and regulations, and the timely submission of all deliverables to USAID, including annual work plans, performance monitoring plans, semi-annual reports and annual reports as may be required. 
• The COP will be responsible for overall direction and coordination of the activities of any sub-recipient partners under this grant, and for linking to broader fora in country for coordination of OVC work more broadly. 

Key Functions

• Lead the program’s strategic, financial, and operational planning, including the annual work planning process and development of an appropriate exit strategy.
• Establish and guide overall technical direction of the project.
• Act as principal representative and liaison to all external stakeholders, including but not limited to USAID/Nigeria and the Government of Nigeria.
• Oversee the timely submission of all deliverables to USAID.
• Provide oversight and coordination with international and national sub-recipient partners.
• Supervise key program staff, both technical and managerial, and oversee the hiring process of all local personnel.
• Serve as key liaison with Save the Children partners and any local sub-grantees.
• Oversee the process of selection of sub-recipient CSO partners.
• Provide overall coordination of the institutional/organizational and technical capacity building of local partners and stakeholders.
• Fully inform Save the Children’s home/country office on all matters relating to the program, and maintain appropriate links with partner home/field offices.
• Ensure that efficient systems to support all aspects of the program (including sub-grant management, financial, capacity building and performance monitoring and reporting) are in place and support the effective use of program resources in compliance with USAID regulations and Save the Children policies.
• Ensure knowledge management systems are in place and the production of quality evidence based documentation is produced and disseminated.
• Undertake any other tasks as assigned by the Office of HIV/AIDS or the Africa Area Director.

Qualifications and Experience

• Advanced Degree in International Relations, Public Health, or related field.
• 10-12 years of field-based experience managing large and complex overseas, multi-partner development programs, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Experience managing large scale USAID funded project(s) at a senior level
• Demonstrated knowledge of and familiarity with USAID (PEPFAR) policies, rules, regulations, and procedures.
• Experience in managing large child focused field programs for an international NGO
• Demonstrated skills in strategic and program planning and understanding of HIV/AIDS-related support services
• Demonstrated skills in leadership and supervision of staff and teams
• Demonstrated skills in building and maintaining a high performance team internally and across organizations.
• Demonstrated skills in negotiating with partners at a strategic  and contractual level and proven skills in diplomacy
• Familiarity with USAID regulations and policies, with specific understanding of PEPFAR guidelines, rules and regulations.
• Extensive experience working in Sub-Saharan Africa; specific work experience in Nigeria desirable.
• Proven experience building capacity of local NGOs and government bodies.
• Proven ability in promoting and collaborating closely with multi-level stakeholders
• Excellent interpersonal skills and demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in team situations
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.  Fluency in English required.