Chemonics International seeks applications from qualified candidates for multiple Program Development Officer (PDO) positions for the Iraq Regional Program (IRP) based in Mosul, Iraq. IRP is a USAID project that aims to promote an inclusive and stable Iraq; assist persecuted, conflict-affected populations; and support stabilization and recovery efforts. The PDO plays a central role in shaping the program’s strategy, identifying potential partners, and developing activities in support of IRP's program goal and objectives. S/he must have a deep understanding of the programming locations where S/he works – including issues/challenges in the area; prospective partners; and other projects that are currently ongoing to avoid duplication and to ensure coordination. The PDO provides input into the development of the program’s strategic framework based on their analysis of programming locations, the partner and donor landscape, and understanding of IRP’s strategic advantage. The PDO is also expected to coordinate with other members of IRP who are responsible for various aspects of the activity cycle.
Responsibilities include:
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Closely monitor political and other developments within area of responsibility to inform program strategy, partner selection, and activity development.
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Identify potential partners through networking and outreach, and work with them to design and develop grant concepts.
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Prepare, present, analyze, and evaluate grant concepts, applications, and grant agreement/award documents to ensure consistency with program priorities, goals, and objectives.
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Consult with other program members in the development of activities to ensure sound design, based on lessons learned and that are aligned with programmatic objectives.
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Provide technical input/oversight during activity implementation to ensure the activity adheres to the original design and objectives.
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Manage field program assistant, which includes setting priorities, providing training and mentoring, and reviewing deliverables.
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Support partner capacity building as required, including during development. This includes supporting grantees to design outreach plans, ensuring realistic and feasible implementation plans, technical specifications for in-kind procurements; and developing a branding and communications strategy.
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Document and monitor activity updates, in close coordination with other team members.
Qualifications:
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Bachelor’s degree in development, social sciences, or related field required; master’s degree in a related field preferred.
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A minimum of three years of pertinent professional experience.
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Strong organizational, management and administrative skills.
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Demonstrated analytical ability and understanding of local and regional contexts, with the ability to think creatively in conceptualizing relevant grant activities.
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Ability to obtain knowledge and assess capabilities of local and international NGOs, community-based organizations, interim governing structures, and media outlets implementing relevant activities and programs in Iraq.
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An up-to-date understanding and knowledge of the political environment and social conditions in Iraq.
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Experience and/or good understanding of donor organizations.
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Ability/willingness to travel throughout Iraq.
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Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, to prioritize multiple work assignments in an extremely fast-paced environment, to meet deadlines, and to exercise good, professional judgment that communicates the established message of the program.
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Working proficiency in office computer applications, including MS Word, and Excel.
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Fluency in written and oral Arabic and English is required; Written and oral fluency in other local languages is a plus, but not required.
