Chief of Party – USAID Nepal e-Governance Activity

ECODIT is an international development firm working with governments, businesses, and local communities to advance environmentally and socially responsible development around the world. We provide technical assistance services ranging from quick-turnaround assessments and evaluations to design and implementation of long-term multi-million-dollar projects. Since its founding in 1993, ECODIT has provided professional services through more than 250 projects/contracts to diverse clients in more than 60 countries. Building on our track record of success, we have continuously expanded the depth and breadth of our expertise in the water, energy, environment, and governance sectors.

Responsibilities:

ECODIT is seeking a qualified Chief of Party (COP) for the anticipated four-year USAID Nepal e-Governance Activity.  The purpose of the Activity is to provide services to assist the Government of Nepal (GoN) and the private sector in the development and rollout of an effective and efficient e-governance capability that is safe and accessible for citizens. The Activity has following three objectives:

1.      Objective 1: Develop and implement eService(s) integrating data across ministries and levels of government;

2.      Objective 2: Skill building to all three levels of government to operate data platforms and eServices;

3.      Objective 3: Enhance accessibility of eServices in targeted locations.

The COP will be based in Kathmandu, Nepal and will bear primary responsibility for the strategic direction, overall coordination, and management of the Activity, including oversight of financial and contract management. S/he will be responsible for ensuring compliance with USG rules and regulations. The COP will serve as the primary interlocutor with USAID and key stakeholders in Nepal. S/he will ensure the program meets stated objectives and reporting requirements in a timely manner. The COP will assume the leadership role in coordination among various partners and subcontractors. The COP will also work closely with the ECODIT Home Office Project Manager (HOPM) and other Home Office (HO) support staff and will serve as an important link between USAID and the ECODIT HO. Specifically, the COP will:

        Lead the technical and operational aspects of the Activity including planning and implementation, ensuring clarity over plans and priorities, and encouraging effective teamwork and adaptive management.

        Provide ongoing capacity building support to local partners and project beneficiaries.

        Ensure compliance with USAID requirements, U.S. Government regulations, and ECODIT policies and procedures.

        Lead preparation of deliverables, including annual work-plans, budgets and project activity updates, and other project-related communication and reporting materials in accordance with USAID deadlines.

        Provide overall financial oversight of the budget over the life of the Activity (e.g., budget, ensuring cost effective management, financial projections and systems to ensure proper use of funds).

        Collaborate with ECODIT’s contracts management team to ensure continuous compliance with contract rules and regulations.

        Ensure continuous communication with ECODIT’s HO and work with the HO to coordinate technical and editorial review of project deliverables prior to submission to USAID.

        Liaise with USAID and other stakeholders in the country to coordinate activities and facilitate monitoring and reporting of project objectives and achievements.

        Liaise with USG partners and other donors and implementing agencies as needed to ensure coordination and synergy.

Required Qualifications

  A Master’s degree, JD, or PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, International Relations, Public or Business Administration).

  At least 12 years of demonstrated professional experience in working with senior government officials and local actors.

  At least 10 years of leadership experience implementing development programs and managing teams, preferably for USAID.

  Experience managing complex contracts with similar size, complexity and scope, including in a COP or Deputy COP role.

  Strong technical expertise in program design, capacity-strengthening, CLA, locally led development, and/or systems thinking.

  Strong management skills and ability to work with a range of technical staff and develop professional relationships with grantees, subcontractors, and other donors.

  Demonstrated strong operations, budgetary, compliance, and decision-making skills, and subcontracts and grants skills.

  Exceptional oral and written communication skills in English.

Additional/Desired Qualifications

v  A strong understanding of Nepal’s Digital Nepal Framework and e-Governance services.

  Experience living and/or working in Nepal.

v  Demonstrable experience integrating gender equity and social inclusion into development projects.

v  Highly developed interpersonal, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

v  Professional level fluency in Nepali.

To apply, please send a cover letter and updated resume/CV in English through the “Our Jobs” section of the ECODIT website by no later than November 15, 2024. Please note that the position is contingent upon contract award. Applications will be received and reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants who fail to meet the application criteria may be disqualified. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. No phone calls please.