Various Positions

Vacancy Announcement

Ref: SP/004/2081/82

30th August 2024

For Internal and External Releases

Sano Paila is a nonprofit, community-based, nongovernmental organization in Nepal that has been working since 2006 to empower disadvantaged communities and promote social justice. For the past 17 years, Sano Paila has been committed to creating and executing impactful programs across a wide range of thematic areas. Our efforts have led to significant achievements in youth development, substance abuse treatment, crime prevention, child protection, literacy, health services, food security, environmental sustainability, peacebuilding, social enterprises, and crisis response.

Sano Paila is currently implementing the “Empower, Educate, Minimize: Ending Witchcraft Allegations Against Women in Madhesh,” funded by the USAID Civil Society and Media (USAID CSM) program with The Asia Foundation as the lead implementer. The goal is to sensitize communities against harmful practices of witchcraft and to help women and girls from Dalit and marginalized communities speak up against the harmful practice of witchcraft. This includes giving them opportunities to participate in public discussions, where they can raise awareness and challenge the beliefs and practices related to witchcraft. By supporting them with the right resources and knowledge, they can become strong voices for change, working to end the discrimination and violence caused by witchcraft accusations and building a fairer society.

Sano Paila is seeking applications from suitable and qualified Nepali candidates for the following full-time positions:

1.     Position: Program Coordinator - 1 No.

Duration: 15 months

Location: Head Office, Birgunj

Reports to: Head of RM and Grants Management

Grade: D1 Max Manager/Chief

Travel Requirement: 70% Field and 30% Office.

 Job Summary:

The Program Coordinator (PC) is responsible for coordinating all aspects of project activities to ensure the efficient and effective achievement of program goals. The PC will develop concept notes, manage timelines, oversee team management, and maintain strong relationships with external stakeholders, including donors, the board, and community stakeholders. The role involves supervising the Admin and Finance Officer and Municipality Coordinators, ensuring compliance with program guidelines, and managing day-to-day operations.

 Key Responsibilities:

Program Coordination and Management:

●       Plan, coordinate, and implement project activities according to objectives, timelines, and budgets.

●       Oversee and monitor the team's performance to ensure effective delivery of program goals.

●       Develop and manage project plans, ensuring alignment with organizational and donor requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement:

●       Serve as the primary liaison between the organization and external stakeholders, including donors, the board, and funding agencies.

●       Maintain regular communication with stakeholders to provide updates and reports and address any issues or concerns.

 Supervision and Team Management:

●       Supervise and support the Admin and Finance Officer and Municipality Coordinators to ensure organizational policies and procedures compliance.

●       Provide guidance, mentorship, and performance feedback to the team.

 Monitoring and Reporting:

●       Monitor day-to-day project activities and ensure alignment with the overall program strategy.

●       Prepare, review, and finalize event/project reports, concept notes, and plans to be submitted to donors and other stakeholders.

●       Analyze program data and provide insights for continuous improvement.

 Compliance and Quality Assurance:

         ●       Ensure all project activities comply with organizational policies, donor guidelines, and legal requirements.

●       Develop and implement quality assurance mechanisms to maintain high program delivery standards.

 Event and Activity Coordination:

●       Plan and coordinate program-related events, workshops, and meetings as per project requirements.

●       Ensure effective communication and collaboration between all parties involved in the program.

 Qualifications:

●       Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Development Studies, Project Management, or a related field.

●       At least 3 years of experience in program coordination, project management, or a similar role, preferably in the development sector.

●       Strong understanding of program management principles and best practices.

●       Excellent concept note development and report writing skills.

●       Excellent communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.

●       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools.

●       Strong organizational and problem-solving skills with attention to detail.

Skills and Competencies:

●       Effective leadership and team management skills.

●       Strong analytical and decision-making abilities.

●       Ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines.

●       Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with stakeholders.

●       Familiarity with donor reporting requirements and procedures.

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2.     Position: Municipality Coordinator- 2 Nos. (1 for Parsa district and 1 for Bara district)

Duration: 15 months

Location: Parsa (5 municipalities) and Bara (5 municipalities)

Grade: C2 Minimum Senior Officer

Reports to: Program Coordinator

Travel Requirement: 90% Field and 10% Office.

Job Summary:

The Municipality Coordinator is responsible for implementing the program’s activities at the municipal level and ensuring the effective engagement of local communities and stakeholders. This role is significant in conveying the program's message against witchcraft practices, fostering local support, addressing misconceptions, and promoting a safer and more informed environment. The Municipality Coordinator will work closely with the Program Coordinator and other team members to ensure the program's success within the designated municipality.

Key Responsibilities:

Program Implementation:

●       Plan and execute program activities within the assigned municipality, ensuring the overall program objectives are aligned.

●       Engage community leaders, local government officials, and other stakeholders to promote awareness and understanding of the program's goals, particularly in combating witchcraft practices.

●       Organize and facilitate workshops, awareness campaigns, and community meetings to disseminate information and foster community support.

Community Engagement:

●       Build and maintain strong relationships with local communities, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to encourage active participation in program activities.

●       Address community misconceptions and provide accurate information to create an informed and supportive environment against harmful practices.

Monitoring and Reporting:

●       Monitor the progress of program activities within the municipality and provide regular updates to the Program Coordinator.

●       Collect data and feedback from the community to assess the effectiveness of program interventions and suggest improvements.

●       Prepare and submit monthly activity reports on activities, achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

Capacity Building and Support:

●       Train and mentor local volunteers and community groups to strengthen their capacity to advocate against witchcraft practices and promote a safer community environment.

●       Provide technical support and guidance to community stakeholders to enhance the impact of program activities.

Collaboration and Coordination:

●       Collaborate with the Program Coordinator, Admin, and Finance Officer to ensure smooth operations and organizational and donor guidelines/compliance.

●       Coordinate with other municipality coordinators to share best practices, resources, and lessons learned to improve program outcomes across all municipalities.

Advocacy and Representation:

●       Represent the program at local forums, meetings, and events to advocate for program goals and build a network of supporters.

●       Ensure that the community's voices are heard and considered in the planning and implementation of program activities.

Qualifications:

●       Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Community Development, Public Administration, or a related field.

●       At least a year of experience in community engagement, program implementation, or a similar role, preferably in the development sector.

●       Strong understanding of local cultural contexts, particularly regarding harmful traditional practices.

●       Excellent communication, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.

●       Ability to build trust and work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government officials, and civil society organizations.

●       Proficiency in local languages and dialects is highly desirable.

Skills and Competencies:

●       Strong community mobilization and advocacy skills.

●       Proven ability to work independently and as part of a team.

●       Effective problem-solving and decision-making abilities.

●       Sensitivity to local contexts and cultural nuances.

●       Commitment to promoting social justice and human rights.

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3.     Position: Admin and Finance Officer (AFO)

Duration: 15 months

Location: Head Office, Birgunj

Grade: C2 Maximum Senior Officer

Reports to: Program Coordinator

Travel Requirement: 60% Field and 40% Office.

Job Summary:

The Admin and Finance Officer (AFO) is responsible for ensuring robust administrative and financial management to support the effective implementation of the program. The AFO will manage all financial transactions, budget monitoring, and reporting, ensuring strict compliance with funding guidelines. In addition, the AFO will oversee key administrative tasks, including record-keeping, procurement, and logistics support, to ensure the smooth operation of program activities.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Management:

●       Handle all financial transactions, including payments, receipts, and reconciliations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with organizational and donor guidelines.

●       Prepare and maintain accurate financial records, including ledgers, invoices, and receipts, in line with standard accounting practices.

●       Monitor and manage project budgets, ensuring expenditures are within the approved limits and aligned with program objectives.

Budget Monitoring and Reporting:

●       Prepare and submit timely financial reports to the Program Coordinator, funding agency, and other relevant stakeholders as required.

●       Conduct regular financial analysis and provide forecasts for decision-making and program planning.

●       Ensure compliance with all financial reporting requirements outlined by the funding agency and organizational policies.

Administrative Management:

●       Oversee administrative functions, including maintaining records, files, and documentation related to program activities.

●       Manage procurement processes, including sourcing suppliers, obtaining quotations, and ensuring value-for-money purchasing.

●       Coordinate logistics support for program activities, including travel, accommodation, and event management.

Compliance and Auditing:

●       Ensure adherence to all financial and administrative policies, procedures, and donor guidelines.

●       Facilitate internal and external audits by providing all necessary financial documents, explanations, and support.

Coordination and Communication:

●       Communicate regularly with the funding agency and other external stakeholders regarding financial matters, reporting, and compliance.

●       Work closely with the Program Coordinator and Municipality Coordinators to ensure seamless integration of financial and administrative functions into program activities.

Support to Program Implementation:

●       Provide logistical and administrative support to the team for smooth program implementation, including organizing meetings, workshops, and other events.

●       Assist in developing financial aspects of project proposals, plans, and budgets as needed.

Qualifications:

●       Bachelor’s degree in finance, Accounting, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master's degree or relevant professional certification is preferred.

●       At least 3-5 years of experience in financial and administrative management, procurement, and logistic management, preferably in the development or nonprofit sector.

●       Strong knowledge of financial management principles, budgeting, and accounting practices.

●       Excellent proficiency in accounting software (e.g., AccMan ) and Microsoft Office Suite.

●       Familiarity with USAID-funded projects and understanding of donor compliance requirements.

Skills and Competencies:

●       Strong organizational and multitasking skills with attention to detail.

●       Effective communication and interpersonal skills.

●       Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

●       High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.

●       Demonstrated problem-solving and analytical abilities.

Priority is given to females, Dalit, Janjati, Madheshi, unreached or marginalized youths, and local members.

Safeguarding:

Sano Paila highly values its Safeguarding Policy, including the Child Safeguarding and Global Anti-Harassment Policy, and commits to rigorous procedures to ensure all personnel and programs are safe for children. All candidates will be subject to strict background checks. Sano Paila is committed to keeping children safe, and the selection process reflects this commitment to protecting children from abuse.

Sano Paila is an equal opportunity employer committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. It embraces diversity, gender equality, and inclusion in all programs. This commitment extends to our staff, board, and general assembly, ensuring a rich tapestry of voices and experiences that guide our work.

Interested candidates must send their CV/Resume, a cover letter, and 2 references indicating the position applied for in the subject line within 10 days to sanopaila@gmail.com. Early submissions are strongly encouraged.

Join us in building communities to build the Nation! Are you passionate about making a difference? If so, become part of the Sano Paila family. Apply Now!