🇸🇱 Job Vacancies @ International Rescue Committee (IRC) – 5 Positions

International Rescue Committee (IRC) is recruiting to fill the following positions:

1.) Deputy Director of Programs
2.) Grants Coordinator
3.) Finance Officer
4.) Senior Safeguarding Manager
5.) Grants Coordinator

See job details and how to apply below.

1.) Deputy Director of Programs

Requisition ID: req55726

Job Title: Deputy Director of Programs

Sector: Senior Executive Leadership

Employment Category: Fixed Term

Employment Type: Full-Time

Open to Expatriates: Yes

Location: Freetown, Sierra Leone

Work Arrangement: In-person

Job Description

The IRC has been in Sierra Leone since 1999 at the height of the civil war and provided critical support during the Ebola outbreak between 2014 and 2016, which had a direct impact on more than 14,000 individuals. Since its start, the IRC Sierra Leone has reached millions of clients and continues to provide support to the country's most vulnerable communities. The IRC Sierra Leone has country office in Freetown and field offices in Bo, Kanema and Kailahun districts but implements currently in 10 districts of Bo, Moyamba, Pujehun, Bonthe, Falaba, Karene, Kailahun, Kenema Kono & Western Urban Area. Currently IRC Sierra Leone programming aims at governance and system strengthening for access to quality healthcare services and improving the education, livelihoods, and well-being of women and girls.

Job overview

The Deputy Director of Programs (DDP) is a member of the Senior Management Team and is integral to the successful implementation of IRC's programs in Sierra Leone. The DDP will work closely and under the direct supervision of the Country Director (CD), and with a close working relationship with other SMT members and the Regional/HQ technical units. The DDP is responsible for overall program leadership in the areas of strategic programming and planning, ensuring quality implementation. The DDP is the focal point for strategy development, review, and monitoring. The DDP is also responsible for overall business development and fundraising, quality program design and implementation, promoting strategic growth and strong external and internal representation and advocacy. S/he must be able to motivate and lead a diverse staff as well as effectively manage programs, partnerships and budgets. The DDP supervises the Grants Coordinator, Partnership Coordinator, Senior Health Coordinator, WPE Coordinator and MEAL Coordinator. The DDP is responsible for leading and managing the country's programs, grant management & M&E. The DDP is expected to contribute to high levels of teamwork and inter-departmental and cross-sectoral collaboration.

Through the DDP's leadership the IRC Sierra Leone country program will develop and implement high quality programs based on the principles of results, data-driven analysis, problem identification and problem solving. The position is based in Freetown with frequent travel to all field locations.

Major responsibilities

Ethics, Integrity and Safeguarding

•  Adhere to and act in accordance with the IRC Way (code of conduct) , Safeguarding policies and procedures, and other Global HR Policies and Procedures, and communicate through word and example a high standard of compliance with all applicable policies and regulations.
•  Ensure that programs are designed in ensure integrity and safeguarding are central to all interactions with clients.
•  Spearhead the implementation and review of the country program's Clients' Feedback and Response Mechanism (CRM) according to IRC' Global CRM standards. Ensure that complaints are handled according to policies and procedures.
•  Ensure all partners under a sub-award contract adhere to their safeguarding policies and procedures and meet donor minimum requirements/standards.

Strategy & planning

•  With the support of the Country Director, lead the development and implementation and reviews of Sierra Leone phase 2 SAP taking into consideration the context of Sierra Leone.
•  Lead the development, follow up and progress review of the SAP - implementation plan (SAP-IP) and associated budget in collaboration with all departments and key resource persons identified in the SAP-IP, in line with organizational guidelines and country program needs.
•  Champion Strategy implementation and ensure all country program colleagues are familiar with the Strategic Action Plan (SAP) and that all programs are in line with IRC Sierra Leone's strategy.
•  Follow up on SAP - implementation plan (SAP-IP) actions with key focal points identified in the plan.
•  Develop and manage the FY25 SAP budget for the country program, ensuring expenses are reviewed and re-forecasted monthly.

Business Development & Grants Management

•  Lead the implementation/operationalization and review of IRC's country program business development strategy to ensure that individual sector programs, overall strategy and operations are adequately funded.
•  Develop donor engagement plan and be proactive in engaging with in country donors to market IRC work and explore opportunities for funding for all sectors in the short and medium term through donor engagements
•  Work with technical coordinators to develop technical capacity statements for IRC that can be used to for communication and marketing IRC technical expert to donors and other partners
•  Lead the grant management team to ensure IRC Sierra Leone is meeting all institutional donor and internal reporting and compliance requirement.
•  In collaboration with the Grants Coordinator and Technical Coordinators, ensure that quality and timely donor reports are generated and submitted to headquarters and donors, ensuring programmatic review and inputs on all reports ahead of submission.
•  Lead the technical Coordinators and Grants Coordinator to conduct effective Project Cycle Management meetings, ensuring preparation is done in advance and follow-up actions are implemented in a timely manner.

Program Design and technical Oversight

•  Ensure the highest level of quality in program design through robust and in-depth context analysis, development of theories of change and sector level strategies. Through rigorous M&E processes and results-based management, periodic and systematic learning is informing program design and adaptation.
•  Lead program design initiatives drawing on evaluations, lessons learnt and identified beneficiary needs in collaboration with Technical Coordinators.
•  Lead grant Technical Coordinators and M&E to write high quality proposals, meeting identified needs and donor requirements. The process of proposal development should be inclusive, bringing on board all sectors.
•  Promote the use and understanding of IRC's IMPACT standards and Outcome and Evidence Framework across the project cycle.
•  Ensure issues of gender equality and protection mainstreaming are integrated into program design.
•  Identify opportunities to diversify the IRC Sierra Leone Country Program's portfolio working in collaboration with the Grants Unit, Technical Coordinators and Technical Advisors, as well as regional business development colleagues.
•  In collaboration with supply chain and finance functions, support Technical Coordinators to develop and update item forecasts, spending plans and M&E frameworks monthly/as needed.
•  ensure efficient and effective delivery of program quality commitments through overseeing the development and implementation of tools such as program oversight management plans, spend plans, budget versus actual reports, work plans and in collaboration with Project management teams, lead project reports and etc in a timely manner are taken by relevant units as needed.
•  Maintain strong working relationships with Technical Units and Technical Advisors, to ensure adequate remote and in-country support in line with country office needs and strategic direction.
•  Ensure the Country Program adheres to IRC's Global partnership policy, Partnership Excellence for Effectiveness and Results System (PEERS).
•  Support the identification of strategic partnerships and foster strong relationships; including providing capacity building support as needed.

Partnership Management

•  Ensures the Country Programs adherence to IRC's Global partnership policy, Partnership Excellence for Effectiveness and Results System (PEERS).
•  Supports the Sector Coordinators to identify strategic partnerships and foster strong relationships.
•  Provide strategic and/or capacity development support to partners, especially local partners, as needed and as identified via due diligence processes under PEERS.
•  Ensure that the staff manage partners according to PEERS and in line with IRC partnership values and principals with specific regards to joint designs, grant management, approach, communications, and decision making.
•  Raise all potential risks related to partnerships to SMT to ensure proper mitigation steps are determined and implemented.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, Learning and Client Responsiveness

•  Ensure all projects have monitoring and evaluation plans in place from the outset, which are reviewed at regular intervals.
•  Support the M&E Coordinator to ensure the M&E team stays up to date on IRC M&E practices through regular communication with the Regional Measurement and Action Coordinator (RMAC) and training on the MEAL handbook.
•  Ensure adequate budgeting of M&E, accountability and learning activities in all proposals.
•  Support the MEAL Coordinator and Client Responsiveness Manager to roll out Client Response Mechanisms in line with the Client Responsiveness and Safeguarding Mechanisms SOP.

Advocacy and Communications

•  Working closely with the CD and SMT, represent the IRC with donors and government institutions, at interagency meetings, conferences, seminars or other events.
•  Develop a Communications & Visibility Plan to improve and highlight IRC's programs in Sierra Leone
•  Lead and contribute to advocacy efforts on relevant sectoral policies and on programmatic issues.
•  Lead the development and updating of informational materials such as brochures, fact sheets, articles, posters, audio-visual materials, etc. to promote the work of IRC among various stakeholders and constituencies, in particular donors, international organizations, NGOs, and IRC headquarters.
•  Working in collaboration with HQ communications team, ensure that the Sierra Leone page on the IRC Global website is updated. eb7LHKE C0zkI2
•  In coordination with the Country Director and the SMT, ensure an effective communication mechanism is in place to facilitate access to information by all staff to enhance inclusive participation and empowering work environment.

Country Leadership

•  Contribute to the effective leadership of the country program as an active member of IRC Sierra Leone Senior Management Team and Country Leadership Group.
•  Encourage constructive and productive relationships between program staff and operations, finance and field staff and promoting high quality program development and design and quality assurance role of the Technical Coordinators and other program staff.
•  Act as CD when and as delegated by the Country Director when he is out of office

Staff Performance Management, Learning & Development:

•  Where relevant hire, supervise, and build the capacity of team members in relevant technical and management competencies.
•  Coach, train, supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting annual performance objectives, providing regular and timely positive and constructive feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews.
•  Maintain open and professional relations with team members, promote a strong team spirit and provide oversight and guidance to enable staff to successfully perform in their positions.
•  Approve and manage attendance and leave requests to ensure adequate departmental coverage; ensure monthly, accurate timesheet submission and carry out probationary reviews.
•  Hold high-quality meetings with direct reports on a regular and predictable basis, at least monthly.
•  Provide a measurable development plan including on-the-job learning with the aim of strengthening technical capacity, exchanging knowledge within the team and providing guidance on career paths.
•  As required identify staff performance issues and work with Human Resources to document and address these in accordance with the National Staff Employment Policies.
•  Promote and monitor staff care and well-being. Model healthy work-life balance practices. Support appropriate interventions in response to identified staff care needs.
•  Look for opportunities to support staff in their career growth, where appropriate. As part of succession plan and nationalization goals, identify, train and develop capability and capacity of national staff to successfully transition role and responsibilities, by the end of assignment.
•  Adhere to and act in accordance with the IRC Global HR Policies and Procedures, safeguarding policy and communicates through word and example a high standard of compliance with all applicable policies and regulations.

Key working relationships

Position Reports to: Country Director

Position directly Supervises: Senior Health Coordinator, WPE Coordinator, Grants Coordinator, MEAL Coordinator and Partnership Coordinator

Key Internal Contacts:

•  Country Program: SMT, Senior Health Technical Adviser, Finance Coordinator, SC Coordinator, Senior HR/Admin Manager and Field Manager
•  Region/Global: Deputy Regional Director, Award Management Unit, HQ and Regional Technical Units/TAs

Key External Contacts: Donors, Central Government, District Local Authorities Technical Line Ministries, UN Agencies, INGOs, National Organization, and consortium partners

Job requirements

Education:

•  Masters in development, international relations, social sciences, community Development, Economics or relevant fields

Work Experience:

•  At least seven years of international experience in management of complex recovery and development programs in Africa or similar context.
•  Demonstrated skills and experience in program design and delivery, including proposal development.
•  Demonstrated ability for rapid, accurate analysis of complex issues, strong decision-making, and translation of programmatic priorities into operational strategies.
•  Extensive representation and fundraising success, including prior experience with European, US and international donors.
•  Successful experience delivering appropriate levels of oversight for a portfolio consisting of a variety of complex, high-value donor-funded projects.
•  Proven capacity in staff management, multi-tasking, time management and diplomacy.
•  Must be an innovative and creative problem solver, and a team player, with experience working with multi-cultural teams.
•  Demonstrated successful leadership experience managing a multi-disciplinary team and cross-cultural dynamics.
•  Proven track record of leading and developing multi-location teams.
•  Solid skills and experience in program design and delivery, proposal development and monitoring and evaluation.
•  Strong oral and written communication skills, with ability to express ideas and concepts clearly and persuasively with senior internal and external stakeholders.
•  Expertise and knowledge on a diversity of programs and working in consortia.
•  Motivated, positive individual who excels at taking initiative and is able to motivate team members to produce results under pressure.
•  Strong commitment to IRC's vision, mission, and core values.

Demonstrated Managerial/Leadership Competencies:

•  Excellent communication and presentation skills
•  Must have good multitasking skills and copes well with pressure and adapts and learns from adversity.
•  Problem Solving & Judgment effectively uses critical thinking in solving problems.
•  Results Driven: sets challenging and clear expectations to meet organization priorities.
•  Good teamwork and leadership skills are essential to motivate different groups of people to fulfil their responsibilities within a given time frame.
•  Demonstrates well-developed interpersonal skills, excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, as well as negotiation skills.
•  Ability to work with multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary teams.
•  Diplomatic both within the organization and with external interactions.
•  Values diversity, inclusion, people with disabilities and minorities groups
•  Ability to work under pressure and stressful situations with minimal supervision and without compromising on deadlines or quality.

Languages:

•  Fluent English (Written and Spoken)

Computer/Other Tech Requirements:

•  Full professional competency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Ability to Travel: 40% of travel time to various program locations.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

2.) Grants Coordinator

SCOPE OF WORK

The Grants Coordinator will lead on grant-related functions for IRC Sierra Leone. The position reports to the Deputy Director, Programs. This position is based in Freetown with some travel to field sites. The Grants Coordinator will work collaboratively with the IRC’s technical coordinators, partnerships, measurement, finance, programs, and operations teams, donors, and partners.

Main Responsibilities:

Proposal Development

• Leads the coordination of proposal development processes, including the development and monitoring of proposal workplans.
• Prepares non-technical sections of proposals, including budget narratives.
• Facilitates the development and review of budgets, including partner budgets.
• Supports the facilitation of proposal design meetings/workshops internally within the IRC and among partners.
• Ensures proposal development documentation is filed appropriately for internal purposes and record-keeping.

Communication and Representation

• Supports in-country engagement with donors, partner, and key stakeholders.
• Supports representation in national technical working group meetings, and donor and partner meetings, as needed.

Grant Management, Program Support, and Compliance

• Leads in the development of, and ensures compliance with, IRC internal reporting requirements within the IRC Sierra Leone Country Program, including leading donor submissions and review and revision processes.
• Acts as Country Program Focal Point for IRC’s Project Cycle Meetings and supports Project Leads in conducting project opening, implementation, closing, and learning meetings, as well as ensuring Project Dashboards are regularly and accurately updated.
• Supports the Partnerships Coordinator in facilitating meetings with implementing partners.
• Leads the implementation of Budget versus Actual meetings for the IRC Sierra Leone Country Program (monthly) and implementing partners (quarterly).
• Leads the coordination of donor visits and audits, verifications, and spot checks.
• Supports the Partnership Coordinator in pre-award assessments, pre- and post-award due diligence processes, and partner monitoring visits.
• Serves as the IRC Sierra Leone Grants Focal Point for partner financial verifications, and supports their facilitation with the finance team to ensure timely and compliant verifications are conducted by the IRC.

·         Ensures compliance with internal reporting deadlines, and reviews and consolidates reports to ensure documents are of the highest quality and in line with donor requirements.

·         Supports the Grants Team with the review of IRC and partners donor reports prior to onward internal HQ review and donor submission.

·         Conducts routine monitoring visits to IRC implementation sites and field offices and partners as required.

·         Manages grants files on Box and the IRC’s information management platform for grants, Opportunity Tracking and Information System (OTIS).

·         Participates in Partnership Technical Working Group meetings.

·         Leads the Grants Unit on asset management and monitors compliance with IRC and donor asset rules. Reviews asset registers to ensure internal and external compliance, and advises IRC Sierra Leone Country Program colleagues on queries relating to assets in the context of donor compliance.

·         Conduct asset verification visits to partners, both in Freetown and at district level.

·         Supports the Grants Team with the preparation and review of Partnership Agreements and addendums for implementing partners and ensures appropriate flow through the IRC’s online tracking system (OTIS).

·         Supports the IRC Sierra Leone Country Program compliance with Government of Sierra Leone requirements, such as through the review of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and SLA reports before submission to relevant line ministries.

·         Prepares relevant internal compliance documentation, such as Delegations of Authority (DOAs) and waivers, as required for IRC’s proposals and grants.

·         Supports the Deputy Director, Programs with any tasks related to grants, partnership, and compliance, as required/requested.

Minimum Qualifications:

Job Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree, or the equivalent, in international affairs, development or related subject
• At least 3-5 years of experience working in project and/or grants management
• Experience with NGOs is preferred
• Prior knowledge of donor regulations (UNICEF, USAID, EU, DFID, Irish Aid)
• Good communicator with strong organizational, and time management
• Excellent inter-personal, cultural and diplomatic skills
• Strong writing and editing skills with close attention to detail
• Flexibility to adapt to changing requirements
• Ability to juggle competing priorities, meet demanding deadlines and work under pressure in unstable security environment
• Strong skills in Microsoft Office Suite
• Fluency in English, spoken and written

3.) Finance Officer

Job Overview/Summary

Under direct supervision from Finance Coordinator – Operations/Accounts Payable, the Finance Officer is responsible to lead all finance activities in the Kailahun field finance office department as per planned schedule and staff/project requests to ensure no finance gaps are experienced. S/he is responsible for all financial activities in the Kailahun office including reviewing and making payments, purchase requests, bid analysis, reviewing financial records for accuracy, preparing bank reconciliations, conducting cash counts etc while liaising with IRC field offices and reporting directly to the Finance Coordinator- Operations/Accounts Payable in Freetown.

Specific Responsibilities

a.      Managing all aspects of day-to-day operations of the accounting department in field office.

b.      Assist in the implementation of Finance policies, procedures and systems.

c.       Ensure compliance with IRC procedures and guidelines.

d.      Submit expenditure worksheets to the Finance Head Office on or before 3rd of every subsequent month

e.      Review all payment documents for proper and adequate back up.

f.        Review expenditure worksheets for accuracy and completeness.

g.      Liaison with Logistics, Administration and Medical, prepare commitment lists every month for financial obligations already entered but not captured in financial reports.

h.      Prepare a bank reconciliation for the field office and send it to the main office by 3rd of every month.

i.        Liaison with field office bank on all banking issues.

j.        Ensure that statutory deductions are paid on time to avoid any penalty

k.       Forward to the payroll Administrator every month, an outstanding personnel advances and charges related to T7 for recovery. Ensure that advances made in each month are liquidated appropriately.

l.        Conduct a time sheet audit for field office from time to time.

Personnel Management

a.      Serve as technical resource person for the accounting department.

Administrative duties

a.      Supervise all activities done daily in the Accounts department.

Logistics duties

a.   Review all POs and PRs for proper coding and budget adequacy before approval.

b.   In liaison with Logistics department, prepare commitment lists every month for financial obligations already entered into but not captured in financial reports.

Finance/Budgeting

a.      Act always in accordance with local law and standards of accounting practice.

b.      Review with the objective of gaining a clear understanding of budget guidelines and instructions

c.       Review funding allocations to enable proper guidance to programs and proper coding.

d.      Provide training to program staff on finance issues.

e.      Receptive to training provided and to develop his or her technical and professional competence.

f.        Produce monthly and quarterly reports to be reviewed by the Finance Coordinator.

g.      Assist in budget preparation at the field level.

Security/Communication

a.   Communicate with Finance main office on security issues within the office and outside the office

b.   Report to the Senior Finance Officer any irregularities that occur within the IRC office, staff compound and sites on policy and procedures.

Minimum Qualifications:

Qualification

·         Bachelor’s degree in accounting or Advance Diploma in Accounting from recognized College/Institutions with a minimum of three (3) years of accounting experience.

·         Computer literate with significant experience in excel, accounting package knowledge (ERP Integra system) will be an added advantage.

Skills and Abilities:

o   Good written and verbal skills in the English language

• Ability to work under pressure, long work hours and high workload
• Self-motivated, honest, highly responsible, and punctual.

o   Proactive to seek to identify and communicate potential problems and propose solutions to the level of management appropriate to effect solutions.

• Ability to work as part of a team as well as to work autonomously when required.
• Ability to use computer software-Word, Excel, Power Point and e-mail.

o   Committed to staff training and development

Standards of Professional Conduct the IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – Code of Conduct.  These are Integrity, Service, and Accountability.  In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Harassment-Free Workplace, Fiscal Integrity, Anti-Retaliation, Combating Trafficking in Persons and several others.

Gender Equality: IRC is committed to narrowing the gender gap in leadership positions. We offer benefits that provide an enabling environment for women to participate in our workforce including parental leave, gender-sensitive security protocols and other supportive benefits and allowances.

Working Environment

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Interested persons should submit their application letter, updated CV, labor card and all other supporting documents on the application platform as well as send a copy of all application document to the NGO Desk Officer, Ministry of Labour - New England or to the nearest Ministry of Labour office nationwide.

WOMEN ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO APPLY

4.) Senior Safeguarding Manager

The Senior Safeguarding Manager will be responsible for the application of Safeguarding policies in the country and for supporting the Sierra Leone program to protect clients and staff from any harm, exploitation, and abuse. She/he will support the country program/teams in all sectors of IRC Sierra Leone to determine and achieve the organizational objectives set in the strategic action plan and the roadmap. She/he will also be responsible for the implementation of IRC's Safeguarding strategy and policy in the country
The Senior Safeguarding Manager will be working under the direct supervision of the Country Director, with technical support from the Regional Safeguarding Advisor, West Africa and the What Works2 Safeguarding advisor working in Sierra Leone, and in close collaboration with the Senior Management team, Technical Coordinators, the HR team, and partners. He/she will be mainly responsible for coordinating the effective implementation of IRC's Safeguarding strategy in all country program activities and will support the teams of all sectors to determine and achieve the organizational objectives set in the strategic action plan and roadmap.

Major Responsibilities

Staff Learning and Competencies
Work with HR to ensure a coordinated, well-tracked system for the orientation of newly hired staff, enumerators, incentive workers, etc and refresher training to all staff on IRC policies, reporting pathways, and basic survivor referral and support options.
Work with HR to ensure that basic information on IRC safeguarding policies and expected
behaviors are part of all IRC job postings.
Support the rollout and implementation of the safeguarding minimum standards at the country level.
Support the logistics department, to enhance their safeguarding mechanisms throughout the procurement and service provision implementation.
Technical Field visits to monitor SG action plans implementation and provide necessary support to the implementations and Field Offices.

Safe Programming
Support staff to take proactive steps to ensure that all programming activities identify potential risks and work to eliminate and mitigate those risks.
Coordinate regular sensitization sessions on Safeguarding and Complaints Response Mechanisms for clients and communities.
Support the drafting of program safeguarding guidelines, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and other required materials.
Support the review of any new proposal or project revision document to ensure safeguarding considerations are included.
Will be a budget holder for safeguarding activities and will be responsible for managing the spending of that budget across programs.
Support staff as requested to establish and disseminate information on basic referral and response pathways for survivors of violence, exploitation, and abuse, in coordination with inter-agency efforts
Work with program coordinators, MEAL, and client responsiveness to ensure that client feedback mechanisms and registers include PSEA/safeguarding reporting channels and protocols.

Accountability
Support the IRC response mechanisms and ensure partner reporting mechanisms and case handling frameworks are in line with IRC standards.
Review, update, and improve partner’s safeguarding case handling frameworks, policies and SOPs localized for Sierra Leone.
Ensure the systematic updating and sharing of a centralized support service mapping.
Foster a working environment that is non-threatening, safe, and actively addressing safeguarding in its processes.
Create safe spaces where people can ask questions, be listened to, and get answers about safeguarding, prevention of sexual exploitation and abuse, and raising concerns.
Support the implementation of ECU and EGR investigation’s recommendations
Demonstrable experience of providing confidential and sensitive support in the safeguarding role
Partnership
Ensure representation in country forums, conferences and clusters focusing on safeguarding such as PSEA Network.
Review partners safeguarding policies and develop action plans to support improvement.
Support the partnership team in the Safeguarding assessment process.
Oversee implementation of Action Plans issued from PCM and ensure that planned activities are delivered on time and within scope and meet technical standards.
Present the Minimum Standards to partners and support them to work accordingly.
Provide necessary safeguarding training to partners’ focal points.

Co-ordination
Facilitate national Safeguarding Community of Practice meetings, to foster information sharing, and cross-organizational learning on best practices and enhance safeguarding standard adherence across the NGO sector in Sierra Leone
As requested by the supervisor, represent the IRC to partners, donors, and other external stakeholders in Sierra Leone.
Keeping up to date on trends and new global safeguarding approaches and sharing knowledge

Training and Capacity Building
Continuously develop the capacity of district Safeguarding Focal Points, support them in their safeguarding activities in their field locations, and organize regular safeguarding training for staff per IRC Global policy and procedures.
Support partners in any of their safeguarding training needs.
Ensure safeguarding is a standing agenda item in internal meetings.
Arrange safeguarding inductions and ongoing capacity building of staff, through formal training, discussion groups, refresher sessions, etc.
Foster ongoing learning, honest dialogue, and reflection to strengthen safeguarding and promote IRC values and adherence to IRC policies.
Participate in regional Safeguarding remote or physical trainings and monthly meetings.
Build relationships with other Safeguarding Managers across the region.

Donor Compliance
Monitor the implementation of IRC and partner safeguarding plans, including field visits.
Provide support and guidance to IRC and partners on the safe management of safeguarding incidents

Key Working Relationships

Position Reports to: Country Director

Key Internal Contacts:
Country Program: SMT, Senior HR/Admin Manager, WPE Coordinator and other technical leads
The What Works 2 Advisor-working in Country who is also part of the global safeguarding team.

Region/Global: Regional Safeguarding Adviser

Key External Contacts: Partners

Minimum Qualifications:

Job Requirements/Qualifications:

 Education:

·    Bachelor’s Degree in relevant fields such as human rights, international law, social sciences, Safeguarding, protection, PSEA or related fields.

Work Experience:

·      Minimum of 3 years’ experience in safeguarding, child protection, human rights, and/or gender programming, preferably in an NGO context

·         Demonstrable understanding of safeguarding, Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment, and power relations in the Sierra Leone context.

·         Demonstrated understanding of the concepts of confidentiality Do-no-harm principles and survivor centered approach.

·         Proven experience in identifying and mitigating safeguarding risks

·         Proven experience working with children and vulnerable adults.

·         Demonstrable experience and skills in capacity development and training of others

·         Ability to work collaboratively with a wide range of stakeholders.

·         Ability to coordinate and prioritize multiple tasks.

·         Commitment to upholding IRC’s values; demonstrating integrity, accountability, service, and equality.

·         Ability to quickly build personal rapport, trust, ease of communication, and active listening.

·         Strong analytical and report writing skills, with excellent attention to detail.

·         Lead by example to motivate others to high performance.

Demonstrated Competencies:

·         Excellent communication and presentation skills

·         Strong listening skills and ability to handle delicate situations with integrity and empathy.

·         The ability to build trust, motivate and enthuse others.

·         Demonstrable experience of providing confidential and sensitive support in a pastoral role

·         Self-motivated and able to take initiatives, highly responsible, punctual, flexible, culturally sensitive. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team

• Must have good multitasking skills and cope well with pressure and adapt and learns from adversity.
•  Very strong commitment to continuous learning

·         Knowledge of human rights, children's rights, and protection issues in emergency situations

• Proven ability to work effectively with a multicultural and diverse team in a sensitive environment

Languages: 

·         Fluent English (Written and Spoken)

Computer/Other Tech Requirements:

·         Full professional competency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

Ability to Travel: 50% of travel time to various program locations.

Standards of Professional Conduct the IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – Code of Conduct.  These are Integrity, Service, and Accountability.  In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Harassment-Free Workplace, Fiscal Integrity, Anti-Retaliation, Combating Trafficking in Persons and several others.

 Gender Equality: IRC is committed to narrowing the gender gap in leadership positions. We offer benefits that provide an enabling environment for women to participate in our workforce including parental leave, gender-sensitive security protocols and other supportive benefits and allowances.

 Working Environment

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

Interested persons should submit their application letter, updated CV, labor card and all other supporting documents on the application platform as well as send a copy of all application document to the NGO Desk Officer, Ministry of Labour - New England or to the nearest Ministry of Labour office nationwide.

5.) Grants Coordinator

Job Overview/Summary

The Grants Coordinator is a key role for IRC Sierra Leone, will work closely with the Deputy Director of Programs, Country Director and technical leads in reviewing IRC Sierra Leone business development strategy and implementation in line with the country strategic action plan to ensure that the country program, has diversified and quality funding. S/he will lead and facilitate broad engagement on business development and proposal writing processes with colleagues from programs, finance, operations and partners. This will include managing the business development cycles and staying up to date on new trends of donor funding opportunities, partnership opportunities and the operating context of Sierra Leone.  S/he will be responsible for conducting the full range of pre and post award activities required to prepare and submit proposals to a broad range of donors. S/he will lead the development of high-quality proposals processes and ensure compliance to donor guidelines and policies. S/he will have direct responsibility for the management and coordination of the grants, partnerships and communications portfolio, including the responsibility of coordinating Project Cycle Meetings (PCMs). The role will have strategic and hands on responsibility for the Grants department.

The Grants Coordinator will report directly to Deputy Director of Programs (DDP), with close working relationship with the Country Director, Senior Management Team (SMT), Program Coordinators, MEAL Coordinator, Partnership, Finance and Operations. At the regional level the role will work closely with the Regional  Program and Award Support Team (RPAS)for the West Africa region. 

Major Responsibilities

Business and Program Development 

• Lead the implementation of the IRC Sierra Leone Business Development Strategy and Workplan, including proactively identifying new opportunities and partnerships, in coordination and collaboration with the DDP and regional business development and private partnerships teams.
• Lead the coordination of the strategic evaluation and drafting of go-no-go decisions and communication with the regional Business Development team to ensure any resourcing and support needs are planned.
• Lead the coordination of proposal development process, from review of solicitation, GNG decision, designs meetings, proposal development to final submission, gathering input from Technical Coordinators (TCs), Measurement staff, Field staff, Senior Management, Operations, Finance, Technical Advisors, and ensuring review/support at the HQ level to ensure high quality design processes and proposals submission.
• Ensure timely planning and management of review process through IRC’s electronic awards database, the Opportunity Tracking and Information System (OTIS) and HQ approvals.
• Lead the drafting of non-technical sections of proposals, including budget narratives, the editing of proposals, and review against solicitation requirements and overall ensure compliance with donor requirements and guidelines.
• In coordination with HQ, ensure proposals meet internal standards, including the use of IRC’s Outcomes Evidence Framework (OEF) and IMPACT Standards, and are in line with the IRC Sierra Leone Strategic Action Plan (SAP).
• With Finance, coordinate the development of proposal budgets and conduct the review of proposal budgets for donor responsiveness and alignment with the technical narrative.
• Act as the focal point with donors in-country for the proposal development process.
• Working closely with the DDP, provide inputs to program development strategy processes through conducting donor mapping, analysis of upcoming opportunities, and IRC’s competitive strategy.
• Ensure that the contractual terms proposed by the donor or Lead Recipient before the start of a project are realistic and applicable, given the local context and IRC internal processes and procedures.
• Work closely with HQ and SMT to provide support and guidance in the negotiation phase before signing grants and partnership agreements
• Contribute to collating lessons learned in relation to past projects, partners and donors and disseminate these within the IRC to support the organisation’s business development processes, ways of working, strategy, and direction. 

Grant Management and Compliance 

• Lead the coordination, management and implementation of the grant lifecycle, from project opening, to close-out, including ensuring regular Project Cycle meetings and monthly budget versus actual (BVA) meetings are held, in close collaboration with programs, finance and operations. Ensure timely communication to, and follow-up with, SMT on issues raised and ensuring the issues are fully resolved.
• Ensure clear communication and management of reporting requirements inclusive timelines both for IRC and its partners (and in coordination with the Partnership Coordinator).
• Coordinate timely reviews and consolidate reports as necessary to ensure documents are of the highest quality and in line with donor requirements and are submitted timely to the donor.
• Work with the programs, field offices and partners in the management of project cycle and compliance requirements as per donor agreements.
• In coordination with Finance, maintain visibility of spending and forecasts for the proper monitoring and the successful implementation of programs and early warning in case of obstacles or challenges.
• Review donor contracts and agreements, coordinating the review and approval process through the IRC’s internal awards management system, OTIS, in close collaboration with the Regional Program and Award Support Team.
• Ensure all IRC grant files are maintained and filed on IRC Box system and in line with the set archiving system.
• Ensure utilization of the grants management tools such as the snapshot, FM01, BvAs, and OTIS to ensure accurate tracking of opportunities, reporting and adjustments through the project life cycle.
• Ensure that grants are implemented in compliance with IRC and relevant donor regulations, liaising with the IRC Awards Management Unit and Regional Program and Award Support Team counterparts on any identified issues, questions, concerns.
• In collaboration with Finance Leads, follows up on disbursement requests throughout the project life cycle until the final report is accepted by the donor, the final advance payment is made, and the grant is closed.
• Supports the IRC Sierra Leone Country Program compliance with Government of Sierra Leone requirements, such as through the review of Service Level Agreements (SLAs) and SLA reports before submission to relevant line ministries.
• Provide training to IRC staff on compliance and donor-specific compliance requirements
• In coordination with the Supply Chain Leads, monitor compliance with IRC and donor asset management rules. Reviews asset registers to ensure internal and external compliance and advises IRC Sierra Leone Country Program colleagues on queries relating to assets in the context of donor compliance.
• Support donor audit preparation, verifications, and spot checks.
• Lead on IRC grant incident reporting (fraud, corruption, security) to the IRC Ethics and Compliance Unit and relevant donor, liaising with HQ, SMT, and donor as per donor and IRC guidelines.

Partnership Management

• In close coordination with the Partnership Coordinator, support IRC Sierra Leone strategic approach to partnerships and ensure that partnership and sub-grant related administrative processes and procedures are consistently implemented throughout the program, including pre-award compliance checks, agreements, and disbursements and reporting.
• Working closely with the DDP and SMT, lead the development process of Sierra Leone Partnership Plan in line with SAP ambitions and partnership targets
• Increase IRC’s capacity to engage with strategic partners, promoting and modeling effective partnership approaches especially with local actors
• Support the identification of potential implementing partners and oversees due diligence exercises with future implementing partners.
• Provide leadership and guidance to implementing partners in the development of project documents and reports.
• Provide leadership and guidance for developing partnership agreements, coordinating the contracting phase with partners, and ensuring the proper dissemination of contractual obligations to the implementing partners. Also responsible for ensuring that project modifications and amendments to the grant agreements are properly reflected in the partnership agreements and updated on OTIS.
• Where applicable, and in close liaison with the partnership and program teams, oversee the partner capacity building plan at the beginning of each project, and monitors the plan implementation throughout the project cycle.

Communications 

• Lead the implementation of the IRC Sierra Leone Communications Workplan, in coordination and collaboration with the DDP and regional communications team. 
• Ensure communication requests from donors and/or HQ are actioned (e.g., case studies, blogs, website updates) by program and grants staff as appropriate. 
• Ensure that all donor branding and visibility plans are developed and implemented as required.
• Ensure routine updates on program information sheets for use in in-country advocacy and business development efforts.

Coordination & Representation

• Support in-country engagement with donors and key stakeholders, in line with SL’s Business Development Strategy and Workplan
• Ensure participation in project level coordination forums, as relevant.
• Participate in consortium partners coordination, as relevant.
• Work with the DDP to coordinate any donor visits and facilitate any reasonable requests from funding affiliates and governing bodies
• Represent the organizations to donors and to other organizations where applicable and as need arises.

Staff Performance Management, Learning & Development:

• Where relevant hire, supervise, and build the capacity of team members in relevant technical and management competencies.
• Coach, train, supervise and mentor direct-report staff, including communicating clear expectations, setting annual performance objectives, providing regular and timely positive and constructive performance feedback, and providing documented semi-annual performance reviews.
• Maintain open and professional relations with team members, promoting a strong team spirit and providing oversight and guidance to enable staff to successfully perform in their positions.
• Approve and manage all time, attendance and leave requests to ensure adequate departmental coverage; ensure monthly, accurate timesheet submission and carry out probationary reviews.
• Hold high-quality meetings with direct report on a regular and predictable basis, at least monthly.
• Provide a measurable development plan including on-the-job learning with the aim of strengthening technical capacity, exchanging knowledge within the team and providing guidance on career paths. 
• As required identify staff performance issues and work with Human Resources to document and address these in accordance with the National Staff Employment Policies.
• Maintain open and professional relations with team members, promoting a strong team spirit and providing oversight and guidance to enable staff to successfully perform in their positions.
• Promote and monitor staff care and well-being. Model healthy work-life balance practices. Support appropriate interventions in response to identified staff care needs.
• Look for opportunities to support staff in their career growth, where appropriate. As part of succession plan and nationalization goals, identify, train and develop capability and capacity of national staff to successfully transition role and responsibilities, by the end of assignment.
• Adhere to and act in accordance with the IRC Global HR Policies and Procedures and communicates through word and example a high standard of compliance with all applicable policies and regulations.

Key Working Relationships

Position Reports to: Deputy Director of Programs 

Position directly Supervises:  Partnership Coordinator

Position indirectly supervises: N/A 

Key Internal Contacts: 

• Country Program:  SMT, Technical Coordinators, MEAL Coordinator, Finance Team and Field Operations
• Region/Global: Regional Award Management Unit, Technical Units/Technical Advisers

Key External Contacts: Donors and partners

Job Requirements

Education:  A master’s degree or equivalent in international affairs, communications, finance management, development, or related subject

Work Experience:

• Minimum five (5) years of international grants management, proposal/business development, program designs experience within the development / humanitarian sector, preferably in Africa. 
• Strong experience developing projects, writing quality proposals and reports with rigorous requirements, short period and tight deadlines for range of donors.
• Working knowledge of budget development and management
• Ability to work independently, hands-on and meet deadlines with minimal supervision and support.
• Excellent organizational skills: the ability to multi-task, learn quickly, and work independently and productively in a fast-paced and detail-oriented environment.
• Demonstrated attention to detail and ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work both independently and cooperatively with team members
• Experience and knowledge of donor regulations (USAID, EU, FCDO, Irish Aid, UN Agencies etc)
• Motivated, positive individual who excels at taking initiative and is able to motivate team members to produce results under pressure. 
• Strong commitment to IRC’s vision, mission, and core values. 
• IRC experience is an asset

Demonstrated Managerial/Leadership Competencies:

• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Strong writing and editing skills with close attention to detail
• Flexibility to adapt to changing requirements
• Excellent inter-personal, cultural and diplomatic skills
• Strong experience in mentorship and capacity building of staff
• Must have good multitasking skills and cope well with pressure and adapts and learns from adversity. 
• Problem Solving & Judgment effectively uses critical thinking in solving problems.
• Results Driven: sets challenging and clear expectations to meet organization priorities.  

Languages: 

• Fluent English (Written and Spoken) 

Computer/Other Tech Requirements:

• Full professional competency in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Word, Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint. 
• Excellent database, data management and data analysis skills, with strong experience using software applications such as Microsoft Excel, Access.

Ability to Travel: 30% of travel time to various program locations.

Standards of Professional Conduct the IRC and IRC workers must adhere to the values and principles outlined in the IRC Way – Code of Conduct.  These are Integrity, Service, and Accountability.  In accordance with these values, the IRC operates and enforces policies on Beneficiary Protection from Exploitation and Abuse, Child Safeguarding, Harassment-Free Workplace, Fiscal Integrity, Anti-Retaliation, Combating Trafficking in Persons and several others.

Gender Equality: IRC is committed to narrowing the gender gap in leadership positions. We offer benefits that provide an enabling environment for women to participate in our workforce including parental leave, gender-sensitive security protocols and other supportive benefits and allowances.

IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer. IRC considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, disability or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.

This position is unaccompanied based in Freetown and accommodation will be in individual house.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY