Since 1963 and in 145 countries, ACDI/VOCA has empowered people in developing and transitional nations to succeed in the global economy. Based in Washington, D.C., ACDI/VOCA is a nonprofit international development organization that delivers technical and management assistance in agribusiness, financial services, enterprise development, community development and food security to promote broad-based economic growth and vibrant civil society. ACDI/VOCA has approximately 76 projects in 36 countries and revenues of about $170 million.
Chief of Party, Kenya
We are currently seeking a Chief of Party for an ongoing, multi-year USAID-funded program focused on reducing poverty and hunger by improving the inclusiveness and competitiveness of the livestock value chain in two counties in the arid lands of Kenya. The program will support the construction and rehabilitation of several market and livestock infrastructure through its Community Contracting Fund, an innovative funding mechanism aimed to alleviate market infrastructure constraints and generate opportunities. For this position, we are looking for an individual with extensive experience working with pastoralists and the ability to oversee and manage small-scale infrastructure construction projects. Kenyan nationals are strongly encouraged to apply. The position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya, with significant travel required to Marsabit and Isiolo Counties.
Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and technical direction for the program, including leading the strategic planning, implementation and reporting.
- Design, develop and implement strategies and project work plans to improve livestock productivity, strengthen market linkages, and expand access to markets for pastoralists.
- Oversee the implementation of the Community Contracting Fund, including but not limited to:
o Develop and implementation of construction management plans for infrastructure investments;
o Assist with the production of RFPs, RFQs, or BOQs, and provide input on specifications, deliverables, and evaluation criteria within the document. Participate in the selection of proposals and bids submitted by offerrors;
o Provide technical leadership to ensure that all construction design documents are produced are of high quality and within the context of scope, schedule and budget;
o Manage the technical inputs and outputs of all staff, consultants, engineers, subcontractors, and project partners;
o Ensure sound and inclusive community-driven implementation of Community Contracting Fund; and
o Ensure compliance with USAID and Government of Kenya environmental and building codes reporting and management.
- Serve as the principal liaison with USAID staff, government partners, and private sector value chain actors to secure commitment and ensure open dialogue that benefits the program goals.
- Lead efforts to collect, synthesize and disseminate clear information through technical reports and periodic progress reports.
- Develop professional relationships, and further program goals and objectives.
- Oversee program administration, human resources management, budget pipeline, and finances, ensuring compliance with USAID and ACDI/VOCA policies and procedures.
- Communicate effectively with other USAID project managers, donors, and other indigenous and international NGOs to ensure positive visibility of project activities.
Qualifications
- Strong written and verbal communications and interpersonal skills with evidence of ability to productively interact with a wide range of organizations (government, private sector, NGOs, research institutions).
- Demonstrated ability to be collaborative across projects, flexible and creative.
- Demonstrated skill in strategic thinking and policy analysis and ability to dialogue with host country government.
- Proven ability to manage a multi-disciplinary team of technical experts.
- At least 10 years of professional experience working in livestock or agricultural development programs in the Horn of Africa, especially in the pastoral areas.
- At least 5 years of experience overseeing or providing direct technical assistance in the design, procurement, and construction of small-scale infrastructure.
- Minimum 5 years of work experience as COP/Senior Programme Manager or an equivalent position managing large (at least $5 million), complex livestock and/or agricultural development programs with a value chain growth and resilience focus, preferably within an African context, experience working in Kenya or East Africa strongly preferred.
- Minimum of a Master’s degree in a relevant field or a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field with an additional 7 years’ experience to the required minimum above. The ideal candidate should have Bachelor’s degree in, Engineering, Architecture, or related technical field.
How to apply:
Please apply online at http://acdivoca.maxhire.net/cp/?E55464361D43515B7E59192F7757186B05627B4D. No phone calls please. Only finalists contacted. Women and minorities encouraged to apply. EOE. Please apply by close of business on October 31, 2014.
