Senior Programme Manager

FHI 360 is a global development organisation, with a rigorous, evidence-based approach to human development. Our team of professionals includes experts in education, health, nutrition, economic development, civil society, environment and research. FHI 360 operates from over 60 offices with more than 4,000 employees in Zambia, the United Kingdom, the United States and around the world. Our commitment to partnerships at all levels and our multi-disciplinary approach allows us to have a lasting impact on the people, communities and countries we serve by improving the lives of millions.

We are currently seeking qualified candidates for the position of Senior Programme Manager for the upcoming FCDO Effective State and Democracy in Zambia (ESDZ) Programme. This position will be based in Lusaka, Zambia. This position is contingent on funder award of the project to FHI 360 and funder approval of the selected applicant in the position.

Programme Description:

ESDZ is an upcoming, seven-year programme (2023 – 2031) funded by the FCDO, which will aim to: (1) Support the Government of Zambia to design, implement, and improve policies and programmes that deliver development, reduce poverty, and promote growth for all citizens; and (2) Support Zambian institutions to uphold democratic values, with strong social accountability and participation. ESDZ will aim to address both supply- and demand-side governance challenges in Zambia, working with the Government of Zambia, regional institutions, Parliament, media organisations, and CSOs to strengthen key institutions and promote active citizen participation and social accountability.

Position Description:

The Senior Programme Manager (SPM) will lead on programmatic aspects of ESDZ including management, compliance, and finance requirements, and management/ supervision of an operations, grants and finance team. They will be the primary point of contact with the FCDO on issues relating to programme management, financial management, risk management, asset management, delivery chain mapping, routine contract management, financial and progress reporting, governance, and compliance. They will maintain a broad yet working level knowledge of all aspects of the programme and engage with programme feedback and learning to continuously adapt processes to ensure effective programme implementation.

Job Summary/Responsibilities:

• Responsible for day-to-day programme management, reporting, compliance and finance and overall coordination of programme activities.
• Primary point of contact for FCDO on programme management matters and reporting.
• Manage the planning and implementation of programme activities, including operational plans and budgets.
•  Manage a team of project management, administrative and finance staff based in both Zambia and the UK.
• Work closely with the Team Leader and other programme staff to manage and mitigate programme risks, including fiduciary and safeguarding risks.
• Ensure suitable safeguarding procedures are in place and followed.
• Ensure programme compliance with relevant rules, regulations and policies of the UK Government and the Government of Zambia.
• Ensure efficient management and utilisation of resources in accordance with appliable FHI 360 and FCDO policies and procedures on Value for Money.
• Develop strong working relationships with partner organisations.
• Collaborate with FHI 360’s country, regional, and headquarters staff to ensure the project is implemented according to organisational and industry best practices, the ESDZ programme framework, and regulations.
• Ensure that monthly, quarterly, and other reporting commitments are met, including accurate and timely financial reporting and forecasting.
• Oversee the project HR function including recruitment, retention, and performance management of staff and consultants.

Required Experience:

• At least 10 years of experience in programme management of large and complex programmes, ideally with experience of working on FCDO-funded commercial contracts.
• Project management experience in Public Sector Governance Reform and/ or Empowerment and Accountability programming.
• Demonstrated Project Management skills, including project scoping, planning, adaptive management, risk management, and mitigation.
• Financial management experience, including budgeting, forecasting, tracking, and reporting.
• Demonstrated skills and experience in consultation, negotiation, and problem solving.
• Strong track record in project team line management and supervision.
• Demonstrated ability to build positive working relationships with consortium partners, local communities, government officials, and donor representatives.
• Track record of working in complex environments, across different cultures, and managing diverse teams to deliver impact within agreed timelines.
• Ability to manage tight deadlines and deliver high volume/high quality work with minimal supervision, including and with a strong track record of project reporting to donors.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office products including Excel, Word and PowerPoint and in the use of project management software.
• Outstanding attention to detail, professional communication and donor management skills, critical thinking and a results mindset and capability at an internationally competitive level.
• Authorisation to work in Zambia.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in business administration/ management, international development, or a related field
• Ability to work and communicate effectively in English

Preferred Qualifications:

• Project Management certification
• Master’s degree in a relevant field

This job description summarises the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.