Programme Officer

Programme Officer

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Company: Directorate General for European Civil Protection and Humanitarian Aid Operations (ECHO)

Date Posted: 24th April 2024

Teaser: Join DG ECHO in delivering effective humanitarian aid. We’re seeking a Programme Officer to make a difference in Nairobi, Kenya.

Job Description:

DG ECHO, a key player in humanitarian aid, is looking for a Programme Officer to join our team in Nairobi, Kenya. As a Programme Officer, you’ll play a crucial role in ensuring effective humanitarian responses, working with operational partners to deliver aid to victims of natural disasters and conflicts.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Strategy Development: Contribute to designing DG ECHO’s overall strategy and policies.
• Regional Support: Provide operational support to regional and country offices, including surge support during field missions.
• Coordination: Facilitate internal coordination across the regional field network, maintaining partner networks, and participating in regional coordination mechanisms.
• Capacity Building: Mentor and coach colleagues, supporting induction of new staff.
• Reporting: Prepare operational briefings and reports, providing analyses of the regional portfolio and cross-cutting issues.

Detailed Terms of Reference are available [here](ToR Programme Officer Group 1 NRO.pdf).

Required Qualifications:

• Education: A relevant first-level university degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years of relevant humanitarian experience at national and international levels.
• Language Skills: Excellent command of English (written and oral – Minimum level C1), knowledge of French is an advantage.

Required Skills:

• Project Management: Thorough knowledge of Logical Framework Approach and Project Cycle Management.
• Analytical Skills: Ability to analyze and process complex information, combining it with field reports to produce strategy documents.
• Communication: Ability to convey information clearly and concisely, with excellent drafting skills in English.
• Initiative: Ability to work independently and in a team, with the ability to set priorities and work to tight deadlines.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should apply online at ATS Flexi-Personnel by 10th May 2024 at 18:00h. Applications should include a cover letter, detailed CV, copies of education certificates, and relevant past employment certificates.

DG ECHO is committed to equal opportunities and diversity in recruitment. Our employment conditions include an initial one-year contract with the possibility of renewal, subject to a probationary period and annual evaluation.

The monthly basic salary range is KES.481,395/-, subject to local tax law and adjusted based on relevant professional experience. Additional benefits include disability/retirement allowance, 13th-month salary, and medical coverage.

Please refer to the National Staff code of conduct here.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Candidates not contacted by 30th June 2024 should consider their application unsuccessful. Any form of canvassing, soliciting, or influencing will result in disqualification.

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SAMPLE COVER LETTER FOR A PROGRAMME OFFICER

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the Programme Officer position at DG ECHO as advertised. With over [X years] of experience in humanitarian aid operations at both national and international levels, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to DG ECHO’s mission of delivering effective humanitarian assistance.

In my previous role at [Previous Organization], I successfully [mention relevant achievement or responsibility], demonstrating my ability to [mention relevant skill or competency]. My experience in [mention relevant experience] has equipped me with the necessary skills to excel in this role, including [mention specific skills or qualifications required in the job description].

I am particularly drawn to this position because of DG ECHO’s commitment to impartiality and delivering aid directly to victims, regardless of their background. I am eager to contribute to DG ECHO’s strategy development, internal coordination, and capacity-building efforts to ensure the effective delivery of humanitarian assistance.

Please find attached my CV for your consideration. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of DG ECHO.

Thank you for considering my application. I am enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those in need.

Sincerely,

[Applicant’s Name]

HOW TO BE A SUCCESSFUL APPLICANT FOR THE PROGRAMME OFFICER ROLE

1. Tailor your application: Customize your cover letter and CV to highlight relevant skills and experiences that match the job description.
2. Highlight your achievements: Showcase your accomplishments in previous roles, demonstrating your ability to deliver results.
3. Research the organization: Familiarize yourself with DG ECHO’s mission, values, and work culture to align your application with their goals.
4. Showcase your communication skills: Clearly articulate your thoughts and experiences in your application, demonstrating strong written and verbal communication skills.
5. Demonstrate adaptability: Highlight your ability to work independently and as part of a team, adapting to changing priorities and environments.
6. Emphasize your analytical skills: Showcase your ability to analyze complex information and make informed decisions, essential for the Programme Officer role.
7. Provide concrete examples: Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your skills and competencies, making your application more compelling.
8. Be professional: Ensure your application is well-written, error-free, and professional in tone, reflecting your commitment to the role and organization.
9. Follow application instructions: Submit your application as per the instructions provided in the job posting, including all required documents and information.
10. Prepare for the interview: Research common interview questions and practice your responses, demonstrating your enthusiasm and suitability for the role.

Possible Programme Officer Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Can you describe your experience in humanitarian aid operations? Answer: In my previous role at [Previous Organization], I was responsible for [mention specific responsibilities or achievements], gaining valuable experience in managing humanitarian programmes.
2. How do you prioritize tasks and manage tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment? Answer: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, using tools like to-do lists and time management techniques to ensure deadlines are met efficiently.
3. How do you approach strategy development in humanitarian aid? Answer: I believe in a collaborative approach to strategy development, involving key stakeholders and considering the needs of beneficiaries to develop effective and sustainable solutions.
4. Can you provide an example of a challenging situation you encountered in a previous role and how you resolved it? Answer: In a previous role, we faced [mention challenge], and I resolved it by [mention specific actions taken], demonstrating my problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to unexpected circumstances.
5. How do you ensure effective communication and coordination with diverse teams and stakeholders? Answer: I prioritize open and transparent communication, actively listening to the perspectives of others and fostering a culture of collaboration to achieve common goals.

We wish you the best in your application process. Our website is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all races and backgrounds in our continued effort to become a better development partner. We are an equal employer and do not charge any application/recruitment fee, whether refundable or not.

THE KENYAN JOBFINDER