TYPE OF APPOINTMENT: Fixed term, six (6) months with possibility of extension
ESTIMATED START DATE: As soon as possible
CLOSING DATE: October 9, 2016
The International Republican Institute (IRI) is a Washington, D.C. based nonpartisan, nongovernmental organization dedicated to advancing democracy worldwide by developing political parties, civic institutions, open elections, democratic governance, and the rule of law. IRI provides technical assistance in the areas of political party strengthening, developing civic institutions and open elections, promoting democratic governance and advancing the rule of law.
In Somaliland, as a partner in the Bringing Unity, Integrity and Legitimacy to Democracy (BUILD) program, International Republican Institute assists political parties to promote inclusion and contribute to peaceful political processes.
IRI recently opened an office in Hargeisa and will need a local Program Officer (PO) to perform programmatic duties on a full-time employment basis.
POSITION: Local Program Officer
The PO works with the Resident Program Director (RPD) in the design and implementation of IRI’s programs in their designated country. The PO assists with management and implementation of IRI’s programs, including development of strategies and plans, training materials, and reports. The PO interacts with RPD, host country government officials, and program partners.
Every employee of IRI is responsible for carrying out the mission of IRI, and demonstrating the core values in their day to day operations.
Duties & Responsibilities
Assist the Resident Program Director (RPD) in designing and implementing a strategy for IRI programs;
Assist the RPD in developing long-term and annual plans for the program;
Assist in developing training strategies and training material, and conduct trainings;
Identify and cultivate relationships with local partners, relevant government officials, and members of the diplomatic and donor community;
Monitor and evaluate the performance of IRI and partner organization activities, identifying successes and failures and recommending program adjustments accordingly;
Monitor regional political developments and provide political and programmatic analysis and recommendation as needed;
Oversee work and development of junior staff and delegate work appropriately;
Assist RPD to fulfill reporting requirements of assigned program areas; write meeting and training reports, as well as weekly program activity reports;
Represent IRI at meetings, events and other activities as needed;
Perform written and oral translation when required;
Review training materials for content and cultural sensitivity;
Keep IRI’s information confidential and ensure its security;
Travel from time-to-time, independently and/or as part of a team, to various locations to support IRI’s programmatic objectives;
Perform other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS:
Minimum Qualifications
A bachelor’s degree, preferably in either International Relations, Political Science, Law or a related subject;
Requirements
Proven capacity to handle multiple tasks and responsibilities simultaneously and under tight deadlines.
Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to coordinate and lead the efforts of other professionals to effectively meet program needs.
Strong oral and written communication and presentation skills.
Well-developed report writing skills.
Strong written and spoken English skills; Somali language is a requirement.
Demonstrated computer proficiency and knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite and basic online applications.
Must have the legal right to work in Somaliland. Visas, resident permits and work permits are the applicant’s and staff member’s responsibility.
Desired Competency and Experience
Required: Minimum of three (3) years’ programmatic work experience for an international organization on a donor funded project, preferably in the field of democracy and governance.
Experience working with political parties and government institutions is an asset.
Familiarity with U.S. Government regulations is an asset; experience working on USAID-funded project is an asset.
HOW TO APPLY:
CVs must be submitted via email to bristic@iri.org with the subject line “Application, Program Officer, Hargeisa”. The closing date for applying is October 9, 2016; no further applications will be accepted after this date. If the applicant does not hear from IRI within two weeks of the closing date, application should be considered unsuccessful. Any possible questions will only be answered during interview, upon invitation. Reference checking and security clearances will be conducted.