Program Director Job Opportunity in Nairobi, Kenya at NDI

National Democratic Institute

Position Title: Program Director

Are you passionate about fostering democracy and citizen engagement? The National Democratic Institute for International Affairs (NDI) invites qualified and experienced individuals to join us in the vibrant city of Nairobi, Kenya. As a Program Director at NDI, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and implementing programs that contribute to the development and enhancement of democratic institutions in Kenya. If you are a dynamic leader with a strong background in international development, political campaigns, and strategic planning, we want to hear from you.

Job Overview

As the Program Director, you will be the technical lead for NDI programs in Kenya. Under the guidance of the Country Director, you will collaborate with civil society groups, political parties, and government officials to design and implement impactful programs. Your responsibilities will include program management, team leadership, and strategic planning. If you thrive in a dynamic environment and are committed to making a positive impact, this role is for you.

Primary Responsibilities

1. Program Design and Implementation:

• Oversee program design, implementation, and monitoring in alignment with program objectives.
• Act as the management focal point in the absence of the Country Director, ensuring continuity in program operations.

2. Team Leadership and Collaboration:

• Lead and oversee team members in planning, designing, and evaluating NDI’s projects in collaboration with local partners and experts.
• Support capacity development of partners, sub-grantees, and civil society organizations.

3. External Engagement:

• Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with activists, citizens, civil society organizations, government officials, and political leaders.
• Foster partnerships with other implementing partners to enhance the impact of NDI’s programs.

4. Financial Oversight:

• Manage the program’s budget, ensuring accuracy and timely reporting of all financial transactions.
• Provide guidance to staff on donor/funder regulations to maintain financial integrity.

5. Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Oversee the project’s monitoring and evaluation components, ensuring quality data collection, program result capture, and timely analysis and reporting.
• Supervise staff in documenting program progress and achievements for reports.

Experience and Skills Required

1. Education:

• Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in International Relations, Political Science, Public Policy, Law, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.

2. Work Experience:

• Minimum of 10 years’ relevant work experience in international development, community organizing, political campaigns, organizational development, or legislative affairs.

3. Skills:

• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong analytical and strategic planning abilities.
• Superior writing and editing skills.
• Demonstrated leadership experience with the ability to motivate staff.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Willingness to travel to regional locations, which may be remote and challenging to reach.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a cover letter and an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) with the names and telephone numbers of three references as a single document. Please email your application to kssadmin@ndi.org, indicating the position title in the email subject as “Program Director” by close of business on Wednesday, November 15, 2023. Only shortlisted candidates will be notified.

NDI is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to promoting diversity and inclusion. We encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds.

Expert Tips To Be A Successful Applicant

1. Showcase Your International Relations Expertise

Demonstrate your proficiency in international relations by highlighting relevant academic achievements and practical experiences. Provide examples of how your knowledge has contributed to the success of previous projects or initiatives.

2. Emphasize Leadership and Team Collaboration

Describe instances where you have successfully led teams in program management. Showcase your ability to collaborate with diverse stakeholders, including civil society organizations, government officials, and political leaders.

3. Highlight Strategic Planning Skills

Illustrate your strategic planning skills by sharing experiences in designing and executing programs. Discuss how you have contributed to the development and implementation of effective strategies that align with organizational goals.

4. Showcase Financial Oversight Expertise

Detail your experience in managing budgets for programs with large grants or across multiple countries. Provide examples of how you ensured accurate financial reporting and compliance with donor regulations.

5. Demonstrate Cultural Sensitivity

Highlight instances where your cultural sensitivity has been instrumental in effective communication and collaboration with diverse teams and stakeholders. Showcase your ability to navigate and work in cross-cultural environments.

6. Provide Clear Communication Examples

Emphasize your superior oral and written communication skills. Share specific examples of how your communication style has been effective in presenting information, responding to questions, and negotiating details.

7. Illustrate Innovative Thinking

Discuss situations where you have demonstrated innovative thinking in addressing complex program and political issues. Showcase your ability to introduce new concepts and strategies for achieving program objectives.

8. Exhibit Capacity Development Achievements

Highlight instances where you played a key role in the capacity development of partners, sub-grantees, or civil society organizations. Provide tangible outcomes that resulted from your efforts in building organizational capacity.

9. Showcase Travel Readiness

Express your willingness and ability to travel to regional locations, even those that may be remote or challenging to reach. Highlight past experiences where your flexibility and readiness to travel contributed to program success.

10. Illustrate Results-Driven Leadership

Share examples of how your leadership has led to tangible program results. Discuss instances where your guidance and supervision contributed to the successful achievement of program objectives and milestones.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is NDI’s mission and vision?

NDI’s mission is to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness, and accountability in government. The vision is to create a world where democratic principles are upheld, and citizens actively participate in shaping their governance.

2. How does NDI contribute to democratic development in Kenya?

NDI works in Kenya to support democratic institutions, including political parties, in engaging with stakeholders and citizens on national policy, legislation development, and citizen concerns. The organization focuses on safeguarding elections and promoting citizen participation, openness, and accountability in government.

3. What opportunities for professional development does NDI offer?

NDI provides opportunities for professional growth through its diverse programs and initiatives. Team members have access to ongoing training, mentorship, and collaboration with experts in the field of international development and democracy.

4. How does NDI ensure diversity and inclusion in its workplace?

NDI is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization promotes equal employment opportunities and makes decisions based on organizational needs, job requirements, and individual qualifications without regard to factors such as race, gender, or educational status.

5. What role does the Program Director play in NDI’s Kenya programs?

The Program Director serves as the technical lead for NDI programs in Kenya. Responsibilities include program design, implementation, and monitoring, team leadership, financial oversight, and external engagement. The Program Director plays a crucial role in advancing NDI’s mission in Kenya.

6. How can I apply for the Program Director position?

To apply for the Program Director position, submit a cover letter and an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) with the names and telephone numbers of three references as a single document. Email your application to kssadmin@ndi.org, indicating the position title in the email subject as “Program Director.”

7. Will I be notified if my application is shortlisted?

Only shortlisted candidates will be notified. NDI appreciates all applications but may contact only those individuals selected for further consideration.

8. Is there an opportunity for travel in this role?

Yes, the Program Director role may require travel to regional locations, including remote and challenging-to-reach areas. Applicants should be willing and able to travel as needed for the successful execution of program activities.

9. How does NDI ensure transparency in its financial transactions?

NDI places a strong emphasis on financial integrity. The organization provides guidance to staff on donor/funder regulations to ensure the transparency of all financial transactions. This commitment contributes to maintaining the trust of donors and stakeholders.

10. What are the key qualities NDI looks for in applicants?

NDI seeks applicants with a strong educational background, relevant work experience, exceptional interpersonal skills, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to democratic principles. The organization values innovation, strategic thinking, and results-driven leadership in its team members.

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