Project Coordinator (Education)

Project coordinator (Education) at Search for common Ground Lebanon Founded in 1982, Search for Common Ground (SFCG) is the largest dedicated international non-governmental organization working in the field of conflict transformation. Operating within 34 countries, SFCG uses creative, multi-faceted approaches to help divided communities understand differences while working toward commonalities. SFCG has been working in Lebanon since 2008 and works to promote social cohesion through a combination of leadership initiatives, journalism, and conflict sensitivity training. Summary of Position The project coordinator will be responsible for managing the implementation of a 10-month educational project for 600 economically disadvantaged Lebanese and Syrian children aged 6-11. S/he will work closely with local partner, education institutions and stakeholders to ensure timely and quality implementation of all activities and the development of extra curricula modules in conflict resolution through arts, sports among others. The project coordinator will oversee day-to-day operations at SFCG-Lebanon offices implementing this project and will ensure that the implementation of the activities is on-time, within budget, and to maximum effect. The project coordinator will be responsible for managing SFCG staff and resources devoted to this project in conformity with Lebanese law and SFCG’s internal operating practices. S/he will also collaborate closely with the MENA team, as well as trainers and technical experts working on the project to ensure the deliverables are of high quality, and delivered in a timely manner. Responsibilities - Develop and maintain proactive, positive and professional relationships with the partner organization, other NGOs, donors, key local officials, education institutions, MEHE, civil society groups, religious groups, media outlets, etc; - Implement project activities in a timely manner ensuring good quality action and credible outcomes; - Implement the financial and administrative systems necessary for the execution of the project; - Maintain regular written and oral reporting for the donor and with SFCG’s Country Director;                                                                                                                                                             - - Implement and report on the project related M&E requirements and milestones in coordination with the DM&E Coordinator. - Maintain responsible media coverage of program events and issues related to SFCG mission; and - Develop regular reports on project activities and finances. - Collaborate with the Country Director and MENA Team on the implementation of the project; - Ensure compliance with SFCG Operations Manual policies and procedures; - Maintain updated security plans; - Oversee the management and reporting on project activities, ensuring timely grant reporting and compliance with contract and donor guidelines in coordination with the local partners; - Ensure necessary prior arrangements are made for training activities organized by Lebanese and international trainers; and - Develop and maintain project records such as databases, reports and records of decisions. As job descriptions cannot be exhaustive, the position holder may be required to undertake other duties that are broadly in line with the above key duties. Requirements and Qualifications Bachelor’s Degree in a related area (Master’s Degree preferred), preferably in conflict resolution, international studies, peace-building, human rights, education or related area. Minimum of five (5) years of related experience, including project financial management experience. Previous experience in supporting the Education Sector of developing and / or transition countries. Knowledge and experience in Education Sector planning is a distinctive asset. Extensive experience in quality improvement projects in education, such as teacher training strategies, curriculum reforms, decentralization, etc. Familiarity with the practice of conflict resolution and the Lebanese context. Skills • Proven ability to negotiate multiple relationships with various partners. • Demonstrated financial management and program administration experience. • Dynamic leader with creative problem solving skills, particularly in challenging situations • Excellent interpersonal and networking skills • Spoken and written fluency in English and Arabic. • Strong oral and written communications skills. • Demonstrated writing and grants management skills. • Cultural sensitivity and adaptability. • Proficiency in Microsoft Office, especially Microsoft Excel. • Strong organizational skills and attention to-detail. Salary: Commensurate with experience and education, with benefits. To Apply: Please send a cover letter / letter of application, resume, salary requirements (or current salary), projected start date, and where you found this job posting by September 30, 2014 with the subject heading: Project Coordinator (Education) at lebanon@sfcg.org. No phone calls please.