The Program Officer is responsible for overseeing World Vision’s grant development within a selected donor portfolio of multi/bi-lateral donors and private non-sponsors (from WVI Support Offices and private entities, such as foundations) in Sri Lanka. Under the overall guidance of the Associate Director – Grants Acquisition and Management, the Program Officer will be responsible for proactively overseeing three key areas within their donor portfolio:
- Ensuring high-quality Project Cycle Management (PCM) and donor relations (70%). The Program Officer is the organizational focal point for coordinating PCM processes; as such, s/he will be responsible for deepening and strengthening an impactful grant-funding base targeting the donor(s) within their set portfolio. S/he maintains a healthy acquisition pipeline of grant proposals; provide tailored advice to guide effective operationalization/implementation, and monitors performance through log frame, budget, and closely liaising with program teams.
- Supporting WVL develop new business streams (20%). The Program Officer will frequently research online databases to identify new business ventures, including funding opportunities and emerging program models aligned to WV’s objectives. S/he will proactively take action to ensure WVL follows through on new opportunities.
- Develop internal processes and systems for improved business effectiveness(10%).The Program Officer provides periodic input into developing work flows, tools and processes for improving the effectiveness of GAM.
In order to be successful in this role, the ideal candidate would have demonstrated experience leading PCM processes. The position follows the overall fund acquisition strategy of the Grant Acquisition Unit and is embedded in the World Vision Lanka strategy. The Program Officer is expected to confidently communicate and represent the WVL grants strategy and may be required to take on additional tasks to ensure the smooth functioning of the Department.
- Facilitate the development of high quality concept papers and project proposals (including logical frameworks, budgets, and monitoring & evaluation plans) within a stipulated portfolio of institutional & private donors aligned to WVL’s mission
- Work with all stakeholders including field staff/technical advisors and other departments/partners & donor representatives to coordinate cross-functional information streams for effective & integrated programing ensuring maximized impact and sustainability of projects/programs
- Facilitate an effective Grant management process - monitor project implementation, resource/fund utilization rates & program quality & donor compliance, ensuring WVL programs meet defined objectives in line with the WV policies procedures & Donor agreements
- Research potential funding opportunities and source and develop strategies for accessing new funding to support WVL programs/projects & develop/maintain key relationships with other INGO’s, local NGO’s , Govt & donors to promote fund acquisition & program collaboration
- Work in close coordination with the donors/partners & Project Managers/ADP Managers in ensuring timely submission of high quality reports in line with the grant agreements.
- Support the development and improvement of internal business processes for effective grant acquisition & management & contribute to knowledge management to promote learning within WVL.
- 2-4 years’ experience in donor relations and/or coordinating grants acquisition and management for institutional donors
- Technical training in Grant Management, Project management cycle, Proposal Pro & related expertise preferred.
- Excellent English communication skills (oral and written). Working knowledge of Tamil and/or Sinhalese will be an asset.
- Demonstrable prior successes in Project Cycle Management (PCM) and overseeing grant processes through log frame, budget, progress monitoring
- Experience working with government/institutional donors managing complex Govt/Institutionally funded programs will be desirable
- Project planning and project team leadership
- Experience living and working within a developing-country context and/or working with partners in developing countries.
- Understanding of programme design process and monitoring/evaluation frameworks
- Strong understanding of community-led development work, preferably with one year experience
- Willing to travel & flexibility to travel domestically & internationally up to 30% of time