Background:

Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic development and post-crisis stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 25 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.  

Position Summary:  

Creative Associates International, Inc. (Creative) is seeking a Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) for an anticipated USAID-funded program in Ethiopia. The DCOP is to be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and will be responsible for the technical leadership and in-country management of the program. The DCOP will support the Chief of Party (COP) and provide overall day-to-day management and coordination of project technical personnel and functions, including ensuring that reporting requirements are met. S/he should have appropriate levels of complementary expertise, professional and work experience to support the COP and coherent and effective program coordination, and possess the relevant management, communication, and interpersonal skills to fulfill this role.

Expected Outcomes:

• The program will contribute to the ability of Ethiopian sub-national government to meet citizen needs and to citizen engagement in governance;
• Project will meet deliverables on time and within budget
• The project will be in compliance with the project contract and USAID regulations.
• Coordination with other implementers, Government of Ethiopia institutions, and other key stakeholders improves synergies and increases the impact of the project.

Responsibilities:

• Oversees daily program management in partnership with the COP and other senior staff, supervising, designing, analyzing, and implementing all technical activities of the program.
• Collaborate with COP for design and implementation of overarching program goals and strategies, and implementation of tools or processes necessary in reaching determined goals and strategies;
• Serve as a thought leader for program implementation, supporting improved delivery, new activity development, stakeholder relationships and program strategy development;
• Supervise and provide program management support to the Activity Coordinators, Community Engagement Manager, Team Lead and other implementation staff to ensure effective and timely management of all activities and initiatives;
• Mentor, guide and supervise implementation staff; support and develop efforts for staff professional growth;
• Liaise with governments officials, maintaining professional relationships and forming new ones that support program implementation and a contextual understanding of the operational environment;
• In partnership with the COP and DCOP/Operations, ensure that all activities are in compliance with 2 CFR Part 200 regulations and Creative policy;
• Ensure the timeliness, cost and quality of all activities performed under the project;
• Contribute to program work plan, budget and other program management tools that identify key objectives, responsible staff, deliverables and potential roadblocks, etc.;
• Contribute to project deliverables such as, success stories, quarterly reports, annual reports and annual work plans;
• Provide input and analysis into routine program reports and other reporting;
• Explore and suggest additional opportunities for activities and grants;
• Suggest innovative approaches in program development both in terms of approach and delivery; and
• Perform other duties as assigned by the COP.

Job Requirement

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree or Bachelor’s degree from an accredited university in a relevant field is required;
• A minimum of ten (10) years of relevant experience with Master’s degree and twelve (12) years of experience with Bachelor’s degree working in governance programs, including experience with a contractor or international NGO with demonstrated supervisory experience;
• Demonstrated experience and knowledge establishing systems and overseeing start-up under limited time constraints as well as program close-out;
• Experience in the hiring and supervising of host country local personnel and ensuring, when need arises, that they secure necessary training required to meet program needs;
• Strong management and leadership skills, including the ability to mentor staff;
• Experience with activity design, development, and implementation;
• Past representational experience with host governments, other donors, and civil society and demonstrated success with inter-agency coordination and joint programming;
• Demonstrated experience managing significant small grants activities for an international development company or NGO;
• Experience advancing equity and inclusion of women, youth, and other marginalized groups;
• Familiarity with and experience in Ethiopia is preferred, but not required;
• Fluency in English required, proficiency in Amharic preferred;