Senior Program Officer

Background

DCA Lebanon has worked in mine action since 2007. In addition to reducing the harm from explosion, clearance activities also release contaminated land for socio-economic development in the context of rising demands from the local and refugee population. In 2012, DCA began implementing humanitarian and development projects through local partners and scaled up its operations in 2021 due to the deepening crisis in country.

Role

The overall objective of this role is overseeing and coordinating various programs and projects within DCA. The SPO will need to ensure that the projects under the program are being implemented in an efficient and effective way. He/ she is the main focal point with the partners ensuring they are delivering the projects in accordance with DCA’s policies and procedures. The SPO is responsible for strengthening DCA’s partnerships with our local partners, conducting capacity assessments, developing capacity building plans and ensuring implementation of projects activities related to capacity building in compliance with DCA and donor guideline. The role requires excellent organizational, communication skills and leadership skills, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with different stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Ensuring partnership principles: Identification of partners, conducting Partner Assessments, developing capacity building plans, providing feedback to local partners on financial, HR, and procurement procedures, requirements, documentation, and maintaining contracts.
• Program Planning: Responsible for collaborating with program managers and partners to develop detailed program plans, including goals, objectives, timelines, and budgets. Conducting research and analysis to identify program’s needs and opportunities for improvement. 
• Program Implementation: Coordinating and overseeing the implementation of program activities, ensuring that they are carried out according to plan and within budget. Monitoring progress and adjusting as needed to ensure that program’s objectives are met and that all those involved are aware of their roles and responsibilities. 
• Stakeholders Engagement: Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders, including partners, donors, and beneficiaries. Providing regular updates on program’s progress and addressing any concerns or issues that arise. 
• Monitoring program progress: The SPO will monitor the progress of programs, including tracking program’s metrics, identifying challenges, and developing strategies to address them.
• Developing and maintaining programme documentation, such as project plans, schedules, and status reports. 
• Team Coordination: Collaborating with cross-functional teams, including program managers, finance, and other departments, to ensure smooth coordination and execution of program activities. Providing guidance and support to program staff as needed.
• Compliance and Risk Management: Ensuring that programs comply with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies. Identifying and mitigating risks and issues that may affect program’s implementation and outcomes.

• Capacity Building: Identifying capacity gaps and providing training and support to program staff and partners to enhance their skills and knowledge related to program implementation.
• Innovation and Improvement: Continuously seeking opportunities for innovation and improvement in program design, implementation, and impact. Proposing and implementing changes to enhance program’s effectiveness and efficiency.
• Networking and Collaboration: Representing the organization at meetings, workshops, and other events related to the program. Building networks and collaborations with other organizations to leverage resources and enhance program’s outcomes.
• Liaising with stakeholders: The SPO works closely with stakeholders, including program’s participants, volunteers, community groups, and funders; to ensure the program is meeting their needs.

• Ensuring compliance: The SPO ensures that programs comply with relevant policies, regulations, and guidelines.
• Providing administrative support: The SPO provides administrative support to program staff, including scheduling meetings, preparing materials, and managing program’s resources.

Background

• At least 5 years’ experience of project planning & management and strong program design skills. Experience of planning, reporting, monitoring, and evaluation skills.
• At least 2 years’ experience in undertaking training and capacity building initiatives.
• Strong written and oral communication skills; effective in representation and liaison with external parties.
• Experience in partnering with local partners and providing direct technical support to local organizations. Interest in organizational development of small organizations.
• Fluent in Arabic and in English; written and spoken language skills.
• Ability to work well independently and with a team.
• Strong computer skills: must be competent in the use of Windows MS Office (Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook).
• Audit experience is desirable.
• Highly organized, close attention to detail, and ability to prioritize tasks.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Business Administration, International Development, or a related field. Proven work experience will be considered as a substitute for formal education.

DCA offers

• 6-Month renewable contract depending on performance and donor funding.
• 20 days of leave and all national holidays are paid time off.
• Good colleagues in a rewarding and empowering workplace.
• Insurance as per industry standards.
• An interesting and challenging experience, addressing humanitarian needs.
• Training opportunities to help you grow professionally.