🇸🇱 Job Vacancies @ Inter-religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) – 8 Positions

Inter-religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) is recruiting to fill the following positions:

1.) Programme Development Manager
2.) Regional Coordinators (x4)
3.) Livelihood Coordinators (x3)

See job details and how to apply below.

1.) Programme Development Manager

Position Programme Development Manager 

Report to General Secretary  

Location Freetown Office of the Inter-Religious council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) Area of Responsibility Staff Supervision and Program Planning and Development Duration Twelve Months (Potentially Renewable)  

Deadline for Application 19th October 2023 

BACKGROUND  

The Inter-religious Council of Sierra Leone (IRCSL) is an interfaith organisation working on, inter alia, national  reconciliation, health and religious harmony. The IRCSL came into existence to facilitate interfaith collaboration as  part of the efforts to end the country’s civil conflict. Inaugurated in 1997, it is composed of adherents of the two  main religions in Sierra Leone – Christianity and Islam. The organisation has a network of clergy and imams in  every part of the country, from village, town, chiefdom, and district, to national levels. They are entrusted with  undertaking sensitisation, awareness raising and community education. Its core values and mission include the  fundamental responsibility to promote interfaith dialogue, promote peaceful co-existence in communities and  provide spiritual, moral guidance for congregations. In the nearest possible time, organization will undertake for  the first time to develop their Country Strategic Plan which will broaden the scope of its interventions across the  country and further strengthen partnerships with existing and potential donors.

In partnerships with Catholic Agency for Overseas Development (CAFOD) and Catholic Relief Services (CRS), IRCSL  seeks applications from suitably qualified and competent persons for its ‘Promoting national cohesion, peace  consolidation and youths’ transformation with employability skills’ project and generally lead in the design,  planning, coordination, development and management of programmes.

JOB SUMMARY 

The Programme Development Manager serves as the focal person for all programme-related issues and is  responsible for proper planning, designing, coordination, monitoring, sound financial management and  programmes, high-level representation, programme quality development, capacity strengthening and effective  relationships with partners and potential donors. The Program Development Manager will search for new funding  opportunities, develop and maintain partnership with other organisations, writing concept notes and proposals  and maintaining donor liaison to secure funding for new projects and programmes for IRCSL.

The scope of the post-holder will be within the confines of the following broad functions:  Programme management and development in line with the New IRCSL’s Programme Strategy o Partnership management and stakeholders’ relationships strengthening.

Internal and external representation. 

Networking and advocacy. 

Financial management, monitoring and reporting of programmes and projects. 

Staff management and development. 

Safeguarding  

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

Programme management and development in line with the New IRCSL’s Programme Strategy  Participate in the development of IRCSL’s Programme Strategy and support in guiding the process for appropriate features of development interventions are entrenched.

Develop and manage donor-supported programmes and ensure they are aligned with the new  programme strategy developed for IRCSL.

Lead the process of developing concept notes and proposals and maintaining donor liaison to secure  funding for new projects and programmes for IRCSL are secured.

Searches for new funding opportunities through donor websites and donor engagement meetings. o Reviews the funding opportunities and checks alignment with programme strategy, organizational policies,  programme priorities and capacity.

Organize and lead the implementation of all assigned project activities as outlined in the detailed  implementation plans in line with donors’ requirements.

Work closely with the General Secretary on grant-award agreements and amendments for IRCL and lead internal review processes on grant-award documentation.

Work closely with the General Secretary to manage project cycle meetings; namely opening,  implementation, close-out, and learning meetings, where the IRCSL is the lead organization or sub-grantee in a coalition.

Partnership management and stakeholders’ relationships strengthening. 

Coordinate and oversee working relationships with all relevant stakeholders and serve as the liaison  between them and the organization in consultation with the General Secretary.

Support and work closely with the Exco Officials of the IRCSL and program team for all partnership related  issues.

In the event of donor issues, work closely with the General Secretary to agree on the appropriate  corrective actions.

Ensure the processes of internal due diligence processes are followed and completed in a timely manner  for all donors with which IRCSL seeks to engage with on new opportunities.

Ensure the capacity building and development plans from the due diligence are tailored accordingly and  prioritized for actions within the required timeframe.

Establish strong working relationships with CAFOD, CRS and other stakeholders.

Internal and external representation. 

Meeting at least quarterly with the Standing Committee of the IRCSL for dialogue and discussion of  programme and project issues with a view to building ownership of and for the programmes and projects  undertaking.

Participate in government and INGOs/NGOs’ coordination meetings, technical working groups, and  general meetings.

Represent the IRCSL body at various levels as delegated by the General Secretary where and when  needed.

Networking and advocacy. 

Ensure linkages between CAFOD, CRS, relevant government departments, ministries, and other agencies.  Nurture and sustain relationships and effective communications with relevant stakeholders, including local  government, national networks, bi-lateral agencies, and other agencies.

Carry out advocacy work with relevant stakeholders at local, national and international levels and to  consolidate national peacebuilding, national cohesion and peace in the country.

Financial management, monitoring and reporting of programmes and projects. 

In close co-operation with the Finance Manager and General Secretary, prepare financial forecasts,  manage and monitor budgets and expenses.

Ensure proper tracking of resource use for project activities through periodic budget reviews and follow up with and assistance to staff assigned to the organization.

Support the review and revision of project reports, narrative and financial, and support the internal  coordination and review process.

Work with project staff to develop a systematic and realistic monitoring system that captures progress on  project performance indicators and disseminates with relevant stakeholders.

Reports on monthly, quarterly, annual, and end of project basis in line with reporting needs as agreed with  any donors or sponsors.

Carry out field spot checks to monitor any activities implemented by IRCSL across the country.  Ensure project documentation for assigned activities is complete with all required documents and is filed  per agency and donor requirements.

Capture and report on program challenges, major decisions, lessons learned, and best practices gathered and disseminate with the General Secretary, Exco Officials of IRCSL and other relevant bodies.  Communicate constructively with the General Secretary regarding donor and IRCSL requests and  requirements to ensure prompt actions appropriately.

Report to the Standing Committee of the IRCSL regarding all programmes and projects being implemented  by the IRCSL.

Staff management and development. 

Identify and adapt appropriate staff development materials (training, distance learning, self-study) to  support the building of capacity in resource acquisition, such as assessment and proposal development  skills, basic elements of donor compliance.

Coordinate the provision of any logistical and administrative support to staff and faith leaders to  accomplish assigned tasks.

Support the Project Staff to facilitate capacity-building sessions with the faith leaders (District and  Chiefdom Coordinators), especially in reporting and project implementation.

Delegate tasks and responsibilities among team members, ensuring a balanced workload and efficient  utilization of skills and expertise.

Foster a positive and inclusive work environment, promoting teamwork, collaboration, and mutual respect  among team members in the organization.

Safeguarding  

Conduct assessment of the existing safeguarding policy to identify gaps and areas of strengthening and  modify to suit the safeguarding for the prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse (PSEA).  Conduct regular orientation of the safeguarding policy with project staff and other relevant persons  contracted to undertake assignment on behalf of IRCSL.

Responsible for ensuring that the programme work IRCSL are accountable for is safe, accessible, dignified  and inclusive.

Create a safe environment for children, young people and vulnerable adults and to prevent their physical,  sexual or emotional abuse.

Report any suspicion or ascertained case of violation of Do Not Harm and Safeguarding requirements that  may arise.

QUALIFICATIONS 

At least First Degree in international development, project management, business administration.  Master’s degree in international development, project management or business administration will be an added advantage.

EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS 

At least 8 years of work experience delivering humanitarian and/or development projects, with minimum  3 years of management experience.

Previous experience in managing a variety of high-value projects across different themes.

Proven record of success in delivering the full project management cycle, including experience in  developing concept notes and proposals.

Prior knowledge of donor regulations and sound understanding of implementation and management of  different donor compliance requirements in the context of partnership.

Proven leadership skills, and experience of managing staff.

Accomplished in networking, influencing and delivering results with key stakeholders.  Excellent written and spoken English.

Ability to function effectively under stressful conditions such as heavy workloads and deadlines.  Excellent Microsoft Office applications skills (Excel, Word, Power point, Emails, Skype, Web researchers).

TO APPLY 

Applicants are required to submit application package (cover letter, updated curriculum vitae including details of  two referees, one being the recent supervisor) via email address to [email protected] and copy  [email protected] mail subject indicating “Programme Development Manager – Name of Applicant”. All  Candidate’s Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV) must be submitted on or before 19th October 2023 at 5:00pm  GMT.

2.) Regional Coordinators (x4)

Position Regional Coordinators 

Report to Programme Development Manager 

Location Makeni/Port Loko/Bo/Kenema 

Staff Supervision None  

Duration Twelve Months  

Deadline for Application 19th October 2023 

JOB SUMMARY 

The Regional Coordinators will work closely with IRCSL’s District Coordinators and Chiefdom Coordinators to organize, implement, supervise and monitor the project activities and report to the General Secretary of IRCSL  through the Programme Development Manager with committed accountability to CAFOD’s Programme Officer and  CRS on quarterly submissions of project narrative report. The post-holder will coordinate all project activities  across the districts and chiefdoms in the region assigned. The post-holder will work very closely with communities,  project participants, Local Authorities, National and International NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to  ensure collaborative efforts to promote tolerance, peace consolidation, social cohesion, reconciliation and  advocacy to prioritize youths’ inclusion in the ‘Youth Employment Scheme’ as endorsed in the Government  flagship programme.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

The responsibilities will include:

Participate in the Training of Trainers facilitated by the Executive Officials on political tolerance promotion,  peacebuilding, ADR and conflict management skills.

Responsible for the planning, mobilization, coordination and facilitation of training on political tolerance  promotion, peacebuilding, ADR and conflict management skills at districts and chiefdom levels. o Facilitate peace dialogue and mediation meetings with youths, security apparatus, Local Authorities,  National and International NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) at district levels. o Facilitate peace commitments sign-off meetings with youths and relevant stakeholders in selected conflict  prone areas.

Work closely with Future View Salone to advocate and lobby with local government institutions and Youth  Commission to engage youths in the informal sector.

Lead the development of implementation plans in consultations with the Programme Development  Manager and District Coordinators of the IRCSL.

Support in organizing programs and activities in accordance with the objectives and goals of the project.  Lead community engagements and raise awareness through local radio stations on political tolerance,  peace consolidation, social cohesion and reconciliation.

Ensure that the project is on track and challenges are dealt with through a regular project review process.  Maintain oversight of project budgets for field operations and ensure proper controls and compliance.

Provide weekly or monthly updates to the Programme Development Manager and General Secretary and  submit quarterly and end of project narrative reports.

Arrange and facilitate programme visits for CAFOD staff, CRS staff and other relevant representatives.  Support the Programme Development Manager in other assignments that fit within the work of IRCSL. Requirements 

Person Specification – Essential Requirements

Qualification 

Must possess National Diploma/Higher National Diploma/First Degree in Peace and Conflict Studies,  Social Work or other Social Sciences, or a similar relevant field.

Additional related courses would be an added advantage.

Experience 

At least 2 to 5 years of experience in implementing advocacy work, civic education, peacebuilding awareness raising projects.

Experience working within the NGO sector.

Experience in working in projects that worked with youths and local government stakeholders. Experience in budgetary and financial controls of field operation activity budget

Experience in working with team and playing supervisory roles.

Demonstrable experience in promoting advocacy for peace and social cohesion in communities.  Experience in training and field use of quantitative data collection methods.

Good knowledge of the area and local customs.

Previous work experience in project location highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies 

Technical knowledge of mediating and dialogue creation processes in conflict situations.  Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Highly organised, with excellent planning, prioritisation and problem-solving skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Competent in Microsoft packages (Word, Excel).

Fluency (written and spoken) in English and ability to communicate one predominant local language in the  district.

Must be able to work on their own and able to manage multiple tasks.

Plan, coordinate and organize workload while remaining aware of changing priorities and competing  deadlines.

TO APPLY 

Applicants are required to submit application package (cover letter, updated curriculum vitae including details of  two referees, one being the recent supervisor) via email address to [email protected] and copy  [email protected] with mail subject indicating “Regional Coordinator – Name of Applicant”. All Candidate’s  Cover Letter and Curriculum Vitae (CV) must be submitted on or before 19th October 2023

3.) Livelihood Coordinators (x3)

Position Livelihood Coordinators 

Report to Executive Director  

Location Makeni/Port Loko/Bo 

Staff Supervision None  

Duration Twelve Months  

Deadline for Application 19th October 2023 

JOB SUMMARY 

The Livelihood Coordinator is responsible for managing of the livelihood component of the project in their  assigned project locations. The post-holder will work very closely with IRCSL, communities, youths, Local  Authorities, National and International NGOs, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to ensure effective  collaboration. The Livelihood Coordinator will ensure that the project is implemented as per the approved  proposals and approach.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

The responsibilities will include:

Undertake vulnerability assessments in targeted communities to define capacity gaps and provide basis  for planning among the youths targeted.

Lead the identification and selection of the project participants jointly with the communities, local  leaders/authority using set of criteria defined by the project.

Identify potential beneficiaries within the district for the project. This entails a careful and proactive  approach to pinpoint individuals who would benefit most from the initiative.

Identify high-capacity vocational skills training centres for the youth to learn different skills as per market  demand to equip with required skills for self-employment.

Actively engage with a range of vocational institutes and MSMEs, fostering partnerships to guarantee the  seamless enrolment of beneficiaries into these institutions. This collaborative effort will ensure that  beneficiaries are not only enrolled but also well-prepared to make the most of the training opportunities  provided.

Facilitate youth’s vocational skills and MSMEs skills process and monitor the distribution of start-up kits.

Coordinate and monitor beneficiaries across various vocational institutes and MSMEs within the district.  This entails a comprehensive oversight role, ensuring that beneficiaries are not only placed in suitable  institutes but also consistently tracked to assess their progress and well-being throughout their  engagement in the program.

Ensure proper allocation of resources to beneficiaries during the project implementation in the district.

Work close with the Finance and Programme Officer to meet project deliverables that would require  action.

Identifying and addressing issues, challenges, and obstacles that may arise within the district, and  collaborating with teams to find solutions.

Develop work plans (Weekly, Monthly, and Quarterly) to ensure effective implementation of all livelihood related activities as outlined in the detailed implementation plan.

Consolidate monthly, quarterly, and annual activity reports showing achievements, lessons learnt,  constraints, and recommendations and submit to the Executive Director.

Carry out monthly review meetings to assess performance of activities against set targets with youths.

Conduct assessment using appropriate tools to collect information and document the impact and benefits  of the intervention by producing case stories.

Participate in workshops, trainings and meetings organized by IRCSL and Future View Salone to contribute  effectively to the success of the project.

Oversee, provide coaching and mentorship to youths linked to obtained vocational and MSMEs skills and  supported with business grants.

Ensuring that project activities within the district adhere to established quality standards and guidelines.

Identifying potential risks or uncertainties within the district that could impact project success and  working with teams to develop mitigation strategies.

Coordinate programme visits for CAFOD staff, CRS staff and other relevant representatives.  Perform any other duty related to Future View Salone assigned by the program manager.

Requirements 

Person Specification – Essential Requirements

Qualification 

Must possess National Diploma/Higher National Diploma/First Degree in Development, Economics, Social  Work, Business Administration, Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and/or related relevant field of studies.

Experience 

At least 2 to 5 years of experience in implementing livelihood projects (with youths is mandatory i).  Experience working within the NGO sector.

Experience in working in projects that worked with youths.

Experience in budgetary and financial controls of field operation activity budget

Experience in working with team and playing supervisory roles.

Experience in training and field use of quantitative data collection methods.

Good knowledge of the area and local customs.

Previous work experience in project location (Makeni/Port Loko/Bo/Kenema) highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies 

Technical knowledge of working with youths to obtain employability skills.

Excellent interpersonal communication skills.

Highly organised, with excellent planning, prioritisation and problem-solving skills.

Excellent verbal and written communication skills.

Competent in Microsoft packages (Word, Excel).

Fluency (written and spoken) in English and ability to communicate one predominant local language in the  district.

Must be able to work on their own and able to manage multiple tasks.

Plan, coordinate and organize workload while remaining aware of changing priorities and competing  deadlines.

TO APPLY 

Applicants are required to submit application package (cover letter, updated curriculum vitae including details of  two referees, one being the recent supervisor) via email address to [email protected] and copy

[email protected] with mail subject indicating “Livelihood Coordinator – Name of Applicant”. All Candidate’s  Cover Letter and Curriculum (CV) must be submitted on or before 19th October 2023 at 5:00pm GMT.