Program Coordinator - Francophone Africa

About International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES): IFES advances democracy for a better future. We collaborate with civil society, public institutions and the private sector to build resilient democracies that deliver for all. Our technical assistance and applied research develop trusted electoral bodies capable of conducting credible elections; effective and accountable governing institutions; civic and political processes in which all people can safely and equally participate; and innovative ways in which technology and data can positively serve elections and democracy. Since 1987, IFES has worked in more than 145 countries, from developing to mature democracies.In accordance with IFES' approach: A society is able to reach its full potential in a world in which people of all genders are fully engaged as equal partners in their families, workplaces and communities. Based on international human rights standards and best practices, IFES promotes political participation, justice and equal rights around the world. IFES reflects these values in its programming and workplace culture.

The greatest assets of IFES are our team members. IFES offers competitive benefits and pay, as well as the opportunity to work in a dynamic and collaborative environment. Every member of the IFES team is responsible for carrying out the mission of IFES and integrating IFES values into their work every day: Commitment to Excellence, Effective Communication, High-Quality Decision-Making, Accountability, Teamwork and Collaboration.

PRIMARY FUNCTION/PURPOSE:

MAJOR DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Assist with program work and other special projects for the division.
• Contribute to analytical reports, project design and project evaluations.
• Participate in budget development processes.
• Input financial data for pipelines, review data in the financial system for accuracy, check the accuracy of financial reports, and review and reconciliation of credit cards.
• Coordinate project implementation and monitoring.
• Coordinate project implementation and monitoring in coordination with other relevant program implementers.
• Troubleshoot project problems.
• Identify and implement creative solutions.
• Review/prepare/submit material for procurement including drafting RFP/RFQ, preparing selection packages, tracking existing contracts etc.
• Monitor/track/review subgrantee program and financial reports.
• Monitor/track pending IFES grant/contract actions and coordinate timely responses.
• Participate in proposal development and new initiative processes.
• Assist with recruitment of field staff and consultants including preparing to post, collecting documents for hiring packages etc.
• Provide training on IFES systems, policies, and procedures, and provide guidance to Program Associates and interns as requested by the division.
• Assist with writing and reviewing of monthly/quarterly reports, writing program success stories etc.
• Participate in IFES' knowledge management initiatives and other thought leadership efforts.
• Attend meetings at the request of a supervisor to gather and share information with colleagues.
• Other duties as assigned.

POSITION SCOPE: Provides varied support functions and performs routine job duties requiring familiarity with proposal development, program management, and research and development initiatives. Contribute to program planning and development. Coordinate work activities performed by internal and external partners.

DECISION MAKING/PROBLEM-SOLVING: Identifies and analyzes problems or discrepancies affecting own work or work products. Works to overcome barriers and constructively deal with unexpected challenging situations. Develops or supports the introduction of new and improved methods or procedures, based on knowledge of procedures and logic.

FISCAL RESPONSIBILITY: Participates in project budget planning, performing routine processing, recording, and reporting of financial transactions, including field expenses, in compliance with IFES policies and procedures.

RELATIONSHIPS: Maintains collaborative working relationships with team members and other staff within the Programs Division. Proactively works with team members and across departments to improve team collaboration and functioning on a continuous basis.

POSITION REQUIREMENTS:

EDUCATION: Bachelor's degree required in relevant field; master's degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE: At least 2 years relevant experience in international development or a related field.

RELATED SKILLS OR KNOWLEDGE: Experience with program management and design. Knowledgeable and experienced with USAID grant and contract proposals, regulations, and procedures and familiarity with USAID and other international donors and key program personnel a plus. Proficiency with Microsoft Office and Excel required. Strong written and verbal communication skills are required.

LANGUAGE SKILLS: Full professional proficiency in English and fluency in French is required and knowledge of one of the regional languages is a plus.

TRAVEL: Travel up to 10% of time might be required.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS/WORK ENVIRONMENT:

Standard office work environment, with occasional country office travel. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.