Head of Programs

Head of Programs – Nepal – Job Description

Status:                                Local National Employee

Reports to:                         Deputy Country Director

Location:                            Kathmandu, Nepal

Opening:                            1 Position

Organizational Description:

The International Foundation for Electoral Systems (IFES) is an international, nonprofit organization that supports the building of democratic societies. IFES promotes democratic stability by providing technical assistance and applying field-based research to the electoral cycle in countries around the world to enhance citizen participation and strengthen civil societies, governance and transparency. Founded in 1987 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, IFES has developed and implemented comprehensive, collaborative democracy solutions in more than 145 countries.

Primary Function/Purpose: 

The Head of Programs will provide general programmatic oversight of the IFES Nepal Country Office under the direction of the IFES Nepal Country Director/Deputy Country Director, the Head of Program’s job responsibilities will include:

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

•       Provide leadership on project implementation with the Election Commission of Nepal (ECN) and local partners at federal and sub-national levels.

•       Oversee the implementation, design, quality and synergy of all program activities.

•       Supervise and provide operational and technical direction to IFES’ program team.

•    Provide targeted expertise on governance and electoral inclusion to build the understanding and capacity of the ECN and other stakeholders and partners, and facilitate  trainings and follow-up support activities.  

•       Oversee results in line with approved objectives, effective monitoring, evaluation and learning of programmatic activities.

•       Coordinate with IFES HQ on project planning, communications and branding.

•       Support program design and development efforts.

•       Review and provide input into IFES reports, research papers and publications.

•       Conduct trainings and workshops; provide input into training curricula and other materials.

•       Represent IFES in various forums, including in meetings with donors, other international organizations, the ECN and other implementing partners.

•       Provide support to finance and admin team on budgeting, procurement, logistics and financial management as requested.

•       Other duties as assigned by the Country Director/Deputy Country Director.

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements:

•         A master’s degree in international relations, social or political science or a related field;

•          Minimum 8 years of professional work experience in the related field in international organizations is required;

•          Demonstrated experience in program management, including training and capacity building, community mobilization and engagement;

•          Experience supervising teams is highly desired;

•          Proven experience in planning and reporting of international donor funded projects required;

•          Demonstrated attention to detail, ability to follow procedures, meet deadlines and work independently and cooperatively with team members;

•          Strong knowledge of Nepal’s electoral system and processes;

•          Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office programs, Excel, Internet) are required;

•          Initiative, drive and strong organizational skills;

•          Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both English and Nepali is required.

This position is opened for Nepali nationals only and is based in Kathmandu with potential for some travel outside Kathmandu. 

Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications and requirements are requested to send their application letter along with an updated CV with two references to: ifesnepalvacancy@gmail.com mentioning the position title in the subject of the email. The application deadline is May 28, 2024. This position is contingent on project funding.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for selection processes. Women, people with disabilities, marginalized and disadvantaged communities are highly encouraged to apply.