Job Title: Technical Project Specialist (Workforce & Youth Development Advisor)
Grade: GS-301-13
Area of Consideration: All Sources

Canditates for this position must be U.S. citizens and be able to be security cleared for assignment. This is a 13 month Temporary, Schedule B appointment, with possible extension of up to 5 years.

The Development Resources and Disaster Assistance Division (DRDAD) of the Office of Capacity Building and Development (OCBD) is responsible for coordinating USDA participation in technical assistance, training, and development programs undertaken on behalf of developing nations. Specific emphasis is oriented toward, but not limited to, administering and implementing Agency for International Development (USAID) funded programs under Participating Agency Service Agreements (PASAs) and Resource Support Service Agreements (RSSAs), as well as agreements with other organizations and non-USAID countries.

As part of its mission, USDA/FAS/OCBD/DRDAD has entered into an agreement with USAID’s pillar Bureau for Economic Growth, Agriculture and Trade (EGAT), Office of Education, to support a Technical Project Specialist (Workforce & Youth Development Advisor). This position provides strategy coordination for Agency-wide programming for workforce development and youth development. The Technical Project Specialist will draw upon USDA’s unique expertise in developing linkages with U.S. agribusiness, educational and scientific organizations in pursuit of youth and workforce development goals. S/he will provide technical leadership and guidance on workforce development issues; on related donor and partner coordination and outreach; and on the development of workforce development and youth support mechanisms, technical leadership, and activity management. Field service roles include writing workforce development and youth related assessments, strategies, and evaluations; promoting best practices derived from state-of-the-art private sector capacity building and performance improvement methodologies; advising Missions on management of workforce and youth programs; developing Agency policies and procedures; and interpreting policies and regulations for Missions. S/he will work in coordination with the technical officer for EGAT/ED workforce development mechanisms, which conducts workforce assessments on the implementation of the EQUIP3 mechanism, which focuses on the needs of youth in developing countries.

To apply, please go to the USDA/FAS website.

IRC is recruiting for a consultant to conduct an assessment in Southern Sudan looking at education and skills building needs and opportunities for youth. The term of the contract will be approximately 3-4 weeks between May-June 2010 to conduct research in Sudan and write 10-15 page report. Interested applicants should submit their CV/resume, a 3 page writing sample and fee requirement to Abigail Gacusana: abigailg@wrcommission.org.

Locations to be visited: Juba, Yei and/or Rumbek (TBC)

Date of TOR: January 27, 2010

Background on assessment:

This field assessment is part of the Women’s Refugee Commission’s global research and advocacy project that aims to increase the scope, scale and effectiveness of educational and job training programs for displaced, conflict-affected young people (15-24 years old). The purpose of this mission is to look at the skills and education Southern Sudanese youth need to earn a safe, dignified living and make a healthy transition to adulthood.

In conjunction with desk research, including reviewing existing market surveys, we will identify what skills, knowledge, goods and services are in demand in specific parts of Southern Sudan with a high concentration of conflict-affected and previously displaced youth. In collaboration with young people and based on available market information, the Women’s Refugee Commission will identify which occupations are most likely appropriate for their situations and what limited number of transferable skills will most likely have the largest “pay-off” for these populations. We will also look at young people’s existing coping strategies and skills as well as the many “sub-group” of young people (i.e., ex-combatants, young mothers, youth living with disabilities, etc). During the field mission, we will identify and document existing programs that appear to meet these needs—programs that lead to the acquisition of basic literacy and numeracy and market-driven skills.

Outputs will include a report detailing findings and recommendations to address gaps and help strengthen education and skills building programs for young women and men. The report will be used in advocacy targeting donors, policy-makers and field practitioners to promote greater attention to and services for appropriate educational and market-driven skills building programs for displaced youth. The field mission will focus on Southern Sudan but will also inform humanitarian action in future complex emergencies and situations of post-conflict reconstruction. It is part of a series of assessments and reports conducted by the Women’s Refugee Commission’s Displaced Youth Initiative. For other reports in the series (Liberia September 20009, Arizona October 2009 and Jordan December 2009), please visit http://www.womensrefugeecommission.org/programs/youth/79-untapped-potent… .

Purpose
To identify the knowledge and skills Southern Sudanese young women and men (age 15-24) need to earn a safe, dignified living.

Objectives

1. To identify current and emerging labor market demand for youth in areas with a high concentration of conflict-affected and previously displaced young women and men;
2. To identify what occupations are most likely appropriate for young people’s situation, taking into account the unique experiences of young women and men of varying ages, backgrounds and experience; (ex-combatants, young mothers, youth with disabilities, etc);
3. To identify what limited number of transferable skills will most likely have the most beneficial impact for young people’s futures, building on young people’s existing coping strategies and skills;
4. To gather young people’s opinions and perceptions of what they think is working, what more is needed and what are some recommendations to meet their needs;
5. To document existing non-formal education and job training programs that appear to lead to the acquisition of basic literacy and numeracy and market-driven skills.
6. To propose strategies and interventions for addressing identified needs and how such services can be strengthened, replicated and/or brought to scale.

Data collection methods

Information gathered from young women and men (approximately 15-24 years old), and government officials, youth networks and groups, business community, donors and service providers (UN, international and local NGOs, government and private sector) working with youth through the following methods:

• Focus groups
• Semi-structured discussions
• In-depth interviews
• Observations
• Site visits
• Secondary data sources – program descriptions and reports, country reports, market surveys, etc.

Activities

• Meet with representatives and field staff of local and international NGOs, youth groups, government, donor and UN agencies and private sector implementing programs and projects targeting young women and men.
• Collect project descriptions from government, UN and international and local NGO staff, including evaluations, when available.
• Visit project implementation sites and document projects visited—size, number/groups of beneficiaries and impact.
• Visit markets and places of employment for previously displaced youth.
• Conduct focus groups and in-depth interviews with previously displaced and conflict-affected young women and men (both those who participate in programs and those who do not) to solicit their views on programs (strengths and weaknesses), reasons why they are or are not participating in programs, coping strategies, service needs and recommended solutions.
• Examine links between education and livelihood programs that promote continued learning and the transition from learner to earner. Identify current strategies in place and build and strengthen such links.
• Consult and review secondary data sources and include relevant findings.
• Collate and analyze all information collected into report on findings—current services, gaps and identified needs with recommendations for initiating solutions.

Deliverables and Outcomes

Deliverables:

• Trip report of current non-formal education and job training programs, gaps and identified needs with recommendations for initiating solutions. Report should include the following: documentation of current and emerging labor market demand for youth and skills required; existing programs that teach market-driven skills; gaps in programming; and good practices and models of youth programs and services that might be scaled up and/or replicated (approximately 10-15 pages)
• Detailed contact list of everyone met, including someone identified in each location to distribute findings back to the community
• 1 detailed individual young person’s story (1 page)
• Photographs

Outcomes:

• The specific educational and employment related needs of previously displaced young women and men in specific sites have been identified and analyzed, taking into account the unique experiences of young women and men of varying ages, backgrounds and experience;
• Innovative market-driven interventions and promising practices working with previously displaced young women and men in specific sites have been identified and documented.
• Market opportunities for previously displaced young women and men in specific sites have been identified;
• Analysis of participatory assessments conducted with young people have been conducted;
• Promising program components—learning, vocational and life skills—that can be replicated in other settings have been identified and documented;
• Learning and targeted recommendations within the humanitarian community has been shared and effective, comprehensive youth programs have been promoted;
• Data collected and lessons learned feed into a larger out-of-school youth resource that the Women’s Refugee Commission is developing as part of 3-year global applied research.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Excellent research, data collection, analysis and writing skills.
• Strong background in relief and international development, with knowledge of and interest in conflict-affected populations, youth, education and livelihood activities.
• Experience working with young people and/or in Southern Sudan a plus.
• Comfortable taking initiative and working with minimal supervision.

Schedule (TBC)

Field visit in Southern Sudan: approximately 2-3 weeks during mid-May or June 2010
Write report: approximately1 week before June 31, 2010.

Manages project:

January — mid-February 2010
Jenny Perlman Robinson
Senior Program Officer, Children and Youth
Women’s Refugee Commission
Email: jennyp@wrcommission.org

Mid-February—June 2010
Dale Buscher
Director, Protection Program
Women’s Refugee Commission
Email: daleb@wrcommission.org

To apply
Please submit a cover letter, CV/resume, 3 page writing sample and salary requirement (including fees for most recent consultancies) via email to:

Abigail Gacusana
Program Coordinator
Women’s Refugee Commission
Email: abigailg@wrcommission.org

Please indicate “Southern Sudan Consultancy” on the email subject.

No phone calls please.

The Women’s Refugee Commission considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, color, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status or disability. The Women’s Commission is an equal opportunity employer.

BACKGROUND:

The IRC Child and Youth Protection and Development (CYPD) Unit currently has programs in conflict and post conflict situations in over 20 countries around the globe. Our programming approach is one that promotes and supports the realization of the rights of children and young people. Programs include formal and non-formal education, life skills, vocational training and enterprise development for youth, as well as holistic support for children involved in the worst forms of child labor. All programs adopt an approach that is designed to promote the psychosocial well-being of conflict-affected children and young people and include expanding opportunities for participation.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Technical Advisor for Youth & Livelihoods will take a lead role in providing technical support, guidance, and training to a number of IRC country programs, particularly in the Middle East and Horn and East Africa, to improve and develop IRC’s work with children and youth in conflict affected populations, both in the immediate emergency phase through to our post-conflict work. He/she will be responsible for enhancing the scope, impact and quality of IRC’s programs involving technical and vocational education and training, youth micro-enterprise development, life skills and youth participation. Improved design, monitoring, publication of strategies and tools, staff training and capacity building are considered key components in achieving these objectives.

By working closely with the country teams, through regular field visits and communication, the Technical Advisor will support the development of new proposals and planning for program growth to effectively address the needs of this sector of the population. He/she will also play a role in liaising with and influencing donors, in terms of recognizing and funding activities to address the needs of children and youth.

The Technical Advisor will work with staff from other sectors such as health economic recovery etc, to improve access and relevance of all services for young people.

The Technical Advisor will report to the Senior Technical Advisor for Youth and Livelihoods. The location for this position is NewYork/ Washington DC.

ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS:

• PROVIDE ON-GOING DIRECT TECHNICAL SUPPORT TO YOUTH & LIVELIHOOD PROGRAMS
  • Be the primary provider of Technical Support and guidance for youth and livelihood programming in selected Field Programs (in 6-8 countries), in accordance with IRC’s Technical Support package, with a particular emphasis on design, monitoring and resource publications. This will be done through:
    • Regular communication with the field through phone and email;
    • Field visits, to monitor implementation, deliver technical support to field staff, conduct trainings, provide resources, make clear recommendations on ways to strengthen programs and share learning across programs.
    • Writing and publishing resources for field programs in relation to design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation.
  • Support HR in recruitment for positions in the field (international staff, interns and consultants): assist with developing job descriptions, conduct technical interviews and provide feedback.
• DEVELOP STRATEGIES AND TOOLS:
  • With the full participation of field programs, contribute to the development/ revision of best practice guides, manuals and other technical resources to improve the quality of IRC’s youth & livelihoods programs;
  • Solicit feedback from field staff about their resource needs, and research and identify relevant support materials for field staff and expand the resource library and promote improved access to this material for field staff;
  • Work with other technical units to support the development of guidance and resource materials, which ensure other sectors and cross cutting programs explicitly recognize children and youth and incorporate their participation.
• FUNDRAISING/ PROPOSAL DEVELOPMENT
  • Lead the development of the business development strategy for Y&L in the Middle East, and contribute to business development in the Horn and East Africa, including, conducting stakeholder analysis and identifying potential partnership opportunities; developing sound technical designs proposals; identifying research and evaluation priorities;
  • Supporting design of proposals and the development of good monitoring plans; directly engaging in the design and development of large RFAs, RFPs, IQCs and other proposals, and drafting, reviewing and edit other proposals on an on-going basis.
• REPRESENT IRC AT RELEVANT FORA
  • Identify priority networks and external fora on Youth and Livelihoods issues.
  • Represent IRC in selected internal IRC meetings and in selected interagency and donor meetings, workshops and conferences
  • Regularly provide briefings on CYPD programs, emerging issues and political developments in our areas of operation, to a range of audiences, including IRC staff, donors, the media, UN agencies, inter-agency networks, and new recruits.
• CYPD TECHNICAL UNIT SUPPORT/ DEVELOPMENT
  • Participate in CYPD TU strategic planning, special projects, meetings, communications material development, intra-net content development.
  • Respond to requests for information about CYPD programs from IRC colleagues from various departments and field programs;
  • Undertake special projects as requested.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Masters degree in Education, Economics, Social Work, Psychology, Anthropology, or another, related, social sciences field (International Affairs, etc.);
• 5 years related work experience;
• Proven technical expertise in delivering and managing youth and livelihoods programs, including some significant experience in implementing programs overseas, preferably in conflict or disaster affected environments;
• Proven technical expertise in one of more of the following areas: enterprise development, ICT, Technical and Vocational Education and Training, microfinance;
• Knowledge of youth development-focused work in both humanitarian and post-conflict settings;
• The ability to travel extensively to developing countries;

• Excellent writing and editing skills:
  • the ability to draft and edit proposals;
  • the ability to write and publish technical resources to support design and implementation of youth and livelihood programming;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills: the ability to successfully listen to, interact with, and communicate clearly with people from diverse nationalities and backgrounds;
• Solid organizational skills: the ability to work independently and productively in a fast-paced environment;
• Flexible work attitude: the ability to work productively in a team environment & independently;
• French and Arabic language skills are a plus, but not required;
• Excellent Computer skills: MS Word, Excel, Power Point, and database software.

To apply for this position please go online to http://www.theIRC.org, click “Jobs” and search for the position.

The Ford Foundation seeks a dynamic individual to implement, monitor and coordinate a grant making program which seeks to improve the livelihoods of poor rural and urban households in West Africa—focusing on Nigeria and sub-region initiatives.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION: The Program Officer will be responsible for developing, monitoring, and coordinating grant making activities to improve the livelihoods of poor rural and urban households. The goal of the livelihoods work is to reduce poverty in rural and urban areas by improving access to financial, business development, and organizational development services that promote the establishment and growth of micro and small enterprises, increase their productivity, and connect producers to markets for their goods and services.

Under the supervision of the Foundation’s Representative in West Africa based in Lagos, Nigeria and the Director of Financial Assets in New York, the new Program Officer will develop grant making and related activities to implement four strategies to achieve the goals of this work: research and development to enable the scaling of successful business development programs, improve business practices, and promote access to markets and financial services and products; building and strengthening livelihood support organizations; where appropriate, supporting public policy analysis and advocacy to improve the enabling environment for urban and rural economies; and building the capacity of networks that link this work globally. The new Program Officer will give particular attention to micro and small enterprise development, including community based enterprises, and strategies to link entrepreneurs to broader markets and value chains. She/he will be expected to keep abreast of the issues, institutions, and key individuals concerned with these issues, provide intellectual leadership in the field, and work closely with other Program Officers throughout the Foundation whose work relates to the central mission of the portfolio. In addition, the Program Officer is expected to contribute to the attainment of the office’s Field Office Program Strategy which includes work on governance and sexuality and reproductive health and rights.

Specifically, the Program Officer will review the current status of the field and the status of the grants in the Foundation’s existing portfolio; formulate plans to implement grant making in the new program strategies; solicit, review, and respond to grant proposals; prepare recommendations for foundation funding. S/he also is expected to collaborate broadly with scholars, practitioners, government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and other donors.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS: Significant professional experience working in the business and enterprise development field and a sound understanding of the impact of public and private sector policies on rural and urban markets, enterprise development and livelihoods. Demonstrated use of financial, business development, and organizational development services to improve rural and urban livelihoods. Understanding of program development and demonstrated ability to conceptualize programmatic ideas and strategies, carry out policy analysis and develop working relations with key stakeholders. Demonstrated capacity to interpret institutional, social and economic dynamics in the Nigerian and West African contexts. Excellent analytical, organizational, and facilitation skills, as well as strong oral and written communication skills in English and French. Demonstrated commitment to collaboration, evidence of effective accomplishment as part of a team and a graduate degree in a related field are required. Experience in West Africa is also desirable.

Location: Lagos, Nigeria

Salary is based on experience and on the Foundation’s commitment to internal equity. A generous benefits package is provided.

To apply for the position visit www.fordfound.org/employment. The application deadline is November 6, 2009.

Equal employment opportunity and having a diverse staff are fundamental principles at The Ford Foundation, where employment and promotional opportunities are based upon individual capabilities and qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, pregnancy, sexual orientation/affectional preference, age, national origin, marital status, citizenship, disability, veteran status or any other protected characteristic as established under law.

Global Health Fellows Program
Technical Advisor III: Senior Technical Advisor for Monitoring and Evaluation of Assistance for Vulnerable Children
Bureau for Global Health, United States Agency for International Development

Location: Washington, DC
Assignment: Two year fellowship
GHFP-09-131

The Global Health Fellows Program (GHFP) is a five year cooperative agreement implemented and managed by the Public Health Institute (PHI) in partnership with the Harvard School of Public Health, Management Systems International and Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine. GHFP is supported by the US Agency for International Development (USAID).

The goal of GHFP is to improve the effectiveness of USAID Population, Health and Nutrition programs by developing and increasing capacity of health professionals in Washington, DC and overseas. This is accomplished through the recruitment, placement and support of junior, mid and senior level health professionals; a diversity initiative focused on providing internship and mentoring opportunities in international public health to underrepresented communities; and professional and organizational development activities to bolster USAID’s ability to maximize results and strengthen its leadership role in global health.

INTRODUCTION:

PL 109-95, the Assistance for Orphans and Other Vulnerable Children in Developing Countries Act, was signed into law on November 8, 2005. The Vulnerable Children’s Act calls for the US Government (USG) response to the global orphans and vulnerable children crisis to be comprehensive, coordinated and effective. USAID is the lead USG agency under the Act. Within USAID, The Bureau for Global Health (GH) is the locus of PL 109-95 leadership and the home of the Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children, a position mandated by the Act.

Over the past three years there has been progress implementing the Act resulting from the collective efforts of six USG agencies and their partners to help children in need of assistance due to natural disasters, conflict, orphan hood, disease, abandonment, exploitation, abuse, or just simply poverty. But progress has been constrained by global economic developments which are making more children more vulnerable, the fragmented structure of US foreign aid which makes interagency coordination more challenging, and PL 109-95 itself, which is an unfunded mandate.

With increasing numbers of children in need and continued budget constraints it’s more important than ever to improve the coherence, efficiency and impact of the USG response to highly vulnerable children with the resources we have. Therefore, USAID is in the process of increasing attention to PL 109-95: a full-time Special Advisor was appointed and began work in mid-July 2008; a four-person PL 109-95 secretariat is being established; interagency coordination has been reactivated; links with key partners – old and new – are being strengthened; and a FY 2009 PL 109-95 strategy and work plan has been completed. The strategy acknowledges the vital importance of coordinating across USG programs which:

• provide humanitarian assistance to children in need of immediate help;
• ensure children survive the initial phase of their lives;
• prevent children from becoming orphans by keeping their parents alive,
• prevent children from abandonment by keeping their families intact;
• enable children to lessen their vulnerability through education; and
• build local capacity to provide sustainable services to children.

The work plan focuses on two interagency initiatives in FY 2009:

1. ensuring limited USG resources are targeted on the most vulnerable children; and
2. building child and family welfare capacity of partner countries.

For more information on the Vulnerable Children’s Act please see the first and second annual reports.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

The Senior Technical Advisor for Monitoring and Evaluation of Assistance for Vulnerable Children is a senior level position within the PL 109-95 secretariat. S/he will provide key leadership in developing and implementing an M&E system across all the USG agencies involved in PL 109-95 programming. The Senior Technical Advisor position is an excellent opportunity for an experienced M&E specialist, skilled in working across multiple constituencies, to lead an M&E approach on a critical issue that cuts across many development areas (health, economic growth, child welfare, democracy and governance, etc.).

The Senior Technical Advisor will:

• Provide technical leadership under PL 109-95 with respect to Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) and ensure that USAID, as the lead USG agency under PL 109-95, is in compliance with statutory PL 109-95 M&E requirements. The Act calls for USAID to “…develop methods to adequately track the overall number of orphans and other vulnerable children receiving assistance, the kinds of programs for such children by sector and location, and any other such related data and analysis.” In order to maximize the sustainable development impact of assistance authorized, the Act requires an M&E system that establishes performance goals for the assistance; establishes performance indicators to be used in measuring or assessing the achievement of the performance goals; and provides a basis for recommendations for adjustments to the assistance to enhance its impact.
• Under the oversight of the PL 109-95 interagency working group and in close collaboration with M&E/Strategic Information (SI) teams in partner USG agencies and departments, especially the M&E team of USAID’s Office of HIV/AIDS (OHA) and the SI team at the State Department’s Office of the Global AIDS Coordinator, refine and upgrade the existing PL 109-95 M&E system, maintain the system, and, most importantly, assist the interagency team to use the system to better address the needs of orphans and other vulnerable children in developing countries.
• Assist the USG agencies working collaboratively under PL 109-95 to target resources on children most in need. PL 109-95 calls for USAID “…to improve targeting and programming of resources” and establish “…priorities that promote the delivery of assistance to the most vulnerable populations of orphans and children …” Assist the interagency group to target collective resources judiciously and to continuously improve its ability to identify and respond to the most vulnerable children.
• In collaboration with the USAID/GH communication and knowledge management teams and similar teams at partner USG agencies, maintain a readily accessible, one-stop shop website/clearinghouse with information on highly vulnerable children, USG assistance to such children (who’s doing what, where); lessons learned and best practices; M&E information, volunteer opportunities, etc. The website must entail minimal incremental costs; be integrated with and linked to existing sites and information systems and use data currently collected and reported by USG agencies. Using this clearinghouse, respond to internal and external ad hoc requests for information; provide data for the annual report to Congress, briefing documents, sites visits and other documents.
• Assist USG agencies working collaboratively under PL 109-95 to continuously improve the evaluationof OVC programs. Coordinate periodic USG efforts to update evaluation and research agenda to address priority questions of common concern to the USG and partners; coordinate or provide support in the development and implementation of USG-supported surveys and studies related to orphans and vulnerable children.
  Support the interagency working group and OHA communication staff to prepare annual PL 109-95 reports. Ensure annual reports incorporate information generated by the PL 109-95 M&E system and ensure annual reports are used effectively and efficiently as the main means to disseminate best practice and lessons learned, and the main means to track progress against targets, analyze data sets and make recommendations for enhanced program planning, coordination and management of orphans and vulnerable children programs.
• Present the PL 109-95 USG interagency group’s work to development partners regarding various M&E task forces, technical working groups and committees to ensure PL 109-95 M&E activities are well coordinated with ongoing partner and country-level M&E efforts; are consistent with internationally-accepted definitions and best practices (e.g., UNICEF); use SI currently collected and reported by USG agencies; and are integrated/compatible with local M&E systems.
  Perform other duties as required that support the overall goal of monitoring and evaluating USG assistance for highly vulnerable children to improve the impact and effectiveness of such assistance.

REQUIRED SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE:

• Master’s or doctorate level degree in program evaluation, public health, public policy, epidemiology, demography, social or behavior science or related field required. Post graduate training in monitoring and evaluation highly preferred
• Minimum ten years’ experience implementing public health, child welfare or other social sector programs, of which at least three years should be in a developing country directly related to monitoring and evaluation of programs for orphans and other vulnerable children or public health programs.
  Sound knowledge of monitoring and evaluation methodology including frameworks, data quality assurance, analysis reporting and best practices in data dissemination and data use required
• Demonstrated knowledge of data management processes and tools including web-based database systems required
• Sound knowledge and experience in information management systems preferred
  Experience managing data, information and evaluations on large scale health, child/social welfare, education and or HIV/AIDS activities required
• Demonstrated ability to develop positive working relationships with donors, other partners and host country officials in a cross-cultural environment
• Strong interpersonal skills and proven ability to develop and maintain effective working relationships across teams and organizations and with external partners in a complex international and multi-cultural environment
• Strong managerial skills with the ability to plan, organize, coordinate and implement work inputs from several sources and partners, and manage the simultaneous delivery of multiple outputs required
  Ability to work independently with little supervision
  Demonstrated ability to analyze data and make presentations to an audience; either written or oral in a clear and concise manner
• Strong computer and writing skills with proven ability to produce concise well written reports and high quality presentations in word, Excel and Power Point with graphics
• US Citizenship or Permanent Residency required

SALARY AND BENEFITS:

Salary will be based on commensurate experience and earnings history. The Public Health Institute offers a comprehensive benefits package including professional development programs. More information is available here.

TO APPLY:

All applicants are required to apply for this position through GHFP’s online recruitment system at https://www.ghfp.net/recruitment/, which allows you to store your CV, profile and bio data form in our database. A separate cover letter describing your qualifications and experience, interest and familiarity with issues relating to this position, and how this position relates to your career goals is required for each application. All online applications must be submitted by September 8, 2009.

We are proud to be an affirmative action employer.

The SEEP Network is seeking a facilitator for the Innovations in Youth Financial Services PLP. The PLP engages microenterprise practitioners in a collaborative learning process that combines a small-grant program with an intensive small-group facilitated-learning process aimed at addressing learning at three levels: the individual organization, the PLP group, and the industry at large.

Term: 40-50 days per year over 3 years (August 2009-July 2012)

Innovations in Youth Financial Services
Practitioner Learning Program (PLP) Facilitator
Scope of Work

Summary:
The SEEP Network, founded in 1985 and headquartered in Washington, DC, is an association of international NGOs that support micro and small enterprise development programs around the world. SEEP’s mission is to connect microenterprise practitioners in a global learning community.

The Practitioner Learning Program (PLP) methodology was developed by SEEP as a key way to engage microenterprise practitioners in a collaborative learning process, and to document and share practical, innovative solutions to key challenges in the industry. The PLP combines a small-grant program with an intensive small-group facilitated-learning process, incorporating in-person workshops, email listservs and phone calls, peer exchanges, and distance learning. Practitioner Learning Programs focus on learning at three levels: the individual organization, the PLP group, and the industry at large.

The Practitioner Learning Program (PLP) Facilitator works closely with SEEP to design and implement the learning agenda and dissemination strategy for the PLP. The PLP Facilitator is the lead technical expert for the PLP and, together with the Senior Program Manager, designs and implements the PLP learning experience.

The planned PLP will explore innovations in the field of youth financial services. The expected result will be stronger microfinance institutions better able to respond to the growing demand worldwide for appropriate and accessible financial services for youth.

The PLP Facilitator monitors grantees’ progress, provides training, technical assistance, and mentoring to participants, and is responsible for drawing out and documenting lessons learned across participant programs. The PLP Facilitator works on a consistent, part-time basis and reports to the PLP Senior Program Manager.

Responsibilities:
Program Design

• With the Senior Program Manager, writes the PLP concept paper and Request for Applications for approval by MasterCard Foundation;
• Designs the specific learning questions for the PLP;
• Designs and facilitates a dissemination strategy that will include meetings, workshops, and documentation of lessons learned;

Learning Facilitation

• Moderates technical discussions on an email-based listserv for the thematic area;
• Monitors participant progress on a regular basis to ensure activities are on track and focused on the key learning questions;
• Designs and facilitates closing PLP workshop;
• Makes site visits to PLP participants as needed;
• Facilitates and collaborates with SEEP’s working groups and other strategic partners as needed;
• With the Senior Program Manager, identifies qualified resource persons and organizations to provide additional specialized knowledge, as needed;
• Provides training, technical assistance, and mentoring to PLP participants through meetings and workshops, the workspace, the listserv, telephone calls, and site visits;

Reporting and Dissemination

• Reports regularly to the Senior Program Manager on program activities and progress;
• Assists PLP participants to document their lessons learned in 3-5 practical, easy-to-use learning products (e.g. technical tools, progress notes, briefs, and case studies) to benefit the youth microenterprise field;
• Presents the lessons learned from the PLP at workshops and conferences, as necessary;
• Links key learning and results of PLP activities to other industry initiatives and audiences;
• Makes recommendations to SEEP on improving the PLP learning process.

  Level of Effort:
  The expected scope of work is approximately 40-50 days per year for 3 years, for a total of 120-150 days. The duration of this work is approximately August 2009 through July 2012. The relevant tasks are tentatively scheduled as follows (subject to change):
  

  Program design and participant selection:
  September – December 2009

  Kickoff workshop:
  April 2010

  Facilitated learning activities:
  April 2010 – February 2011

  Development of learning products: May 2010 – June 2011

  Closing workshop:
  May 2011

  Travel Requirements:
  The PLP Facilitator is required to travel to PLP-related events, including PLP meetings and workshops. The PLP Facilitator may be required to make site visits to individual participants to provide hands-on training, technical assistance, and mentoring as necessary. Also, the PLP Facilitator may be asked to represent the PLP at SEEP’s Annual Conference or at other key industry events.

  Qualifications:

  • Excellent facilitation and training skills in cross-cultural settings;
  • At least five years of experience related to youth financial services required;
  • Substantial experience in international development, including knowledge of current practice and trends in the youth microfinance/microenterprise field;
  • Strong oral and written communication skills and excellent organizational skills;
  • Fluency in English;
  • Proficiency in an additional language (Spanish, French, Arabic, etc) highly desirable;
  • Skilled in Web-based communications, with full-time, high-speed web access.

  Application Deadline:
  The deadline to send a letter of interest and CV is August 17, 2009.

  Contact:
  Please send applications and any questions to:
  Laura Meissner, Senior Program Manager, The SEEP Network
  meissner@seepnetwork.org or +1 202-534-1403

The Senior Protection Program Officer, Livelihoods will take the lead responsibility for the daily management of the Protection Program’s Livelihood initiative under the supervision of the Director, Protection Program. Responsibilities include: liaising with field-based pilot projects; designing and conducting livelihood trainings and workshops for field-based staff; coordinating and promoting global rollout of the Field Manual; mentoring and monitoring five country field operations; supervising 1 – 2 interns; and writing donor reports and funding proposals.

The Women’s Refugee Commission, based in New York, NY, works to improve the lives and defend the rights of refugee and internally displaced women, children and young people. As an advocacy organization, the Commission is dedicated to bringing about systemic changes that lead to greater respect for the rights of uprooted women, children and young people. The organization strives to effect policy change with broad, worldwide impact.

For further details, please see the position description.

The United States government (USG) is establishing a four-person secretariat within USAID to further improve the coordination and effectiveness of USG assistance to orphans and vulnerable children, and maximize the impact on children of USG resources. The following positions are currently open for US citizens to apply:

• Orphans and Vulnerable Children Program Analyst (closes March 20)
• Senior Technical Advisor for Monitoring and Evaluation of Assistance to Vulnerable Children (closes March 23)
• Deputy Special Advisor for Orphans and Vulnerable Children (closes March 27)

Save the Children, the leading independent organization creating real and lasting change for children in need in the U.S. and around the world, is seeking an experienced professional to support its work to strengthen the economic viability and food security of poor families in Africa. Based (preferably) in Ethiopia, the Advisor will play a major role in developing, implementing, and representing Save the Children’s Livelihoods strategy in Africa. He/she will lead the design and implementation of projects that contribute to the growth of income and assets at the household level; identify opportunities and develop winning proposals; and assist our Country Offices in further developing the capacity of local staff and communities to improve the livelihoods outcomes of vulnerable households with children.

The position requires at least 10 years of experience in the design and delivery of income generation and asset building programs, including collective and individual savings and credit services, enterprise development, and value chains. Experience with the Village Savings and Loans methodology, agriculture-based programming, and market assessments (using both quantitative and qualitative techniques) is necessary. Familiarity with programs of economic strengthening of HIV/AIDS-affected households is highly preferred. High level of familiarity with technical leadership in large multisectoral INGOs and USAID programs in the areas of microenterprise and microfinance is necessary.

The successful candidate will have several years of overseas experience, and hold a Masters or PhD in economics, finance, or other related field. She/he will contribute team leadership and training skills, and experience with program design, particularly with USAID. She/he will exhibit exceptional writing and communications skills in English, and preferably in one or two other languages (in particular French, Portuguese, or African languages). She/he will have the ability to work independently, with multi-cultural teams, in sometimes harsh environments, and under tight deadlines.

This position is located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with travel up to 30% of the time. Operation from Save the Children’s offices in Washington, DC or elsewhere in Africa is negotiable, but would require a higher commitment to travel.

Please visit our Career Website at http://www.savethechildren.org/careers/index.asp and apply online to position #3847. EOE M/F/D/V

We thought many of you may be interested in or know of good candidates for what looks like an exciting opening with one of our CYES partners, EDC.

EDC is seeking an International Project Director to manage Leader Award and help backstop Associate Award activities for the EQUIP3 Project. This is a multi-country, cross-sectoral U.S. government-funded project. It requires an international development professional with strong program leadership, research management, and advocacy skills. Previous work with USAID projects and background in education and/or youth development a plus. This position will report to the EDC Vice President and Officer-in-Charge of EQUIP3 Programs. The position will be based in Washington, D.C.

The full announcement is attached. Those interested should submit a resume and cover letter to Cornelia Janke (cjanke@edc.org) and Ron Israel (risrael@edc.org) at EDC.

Note: To learn about an EQUIP3/EDC project check out this Project Profile highlighting a youth-oriented economic strengthening activity in Haiti.