Save the Children is seeking a Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) for an anticipated 5-year USAID-funded integrated health project in Mali. The project will support the Ministry of Health in scaling up high impact maternal, newborn, and child health and nutrition services in an effort to improve health and nutrition outcomes for women of reproductive age and children under 5. The DCOP reports directly to the Chief of Party and ensures technical implementation of high impact, proven interventions that meet stated goals and reporting requirements. This position will assume the responsibilities of the COP in their absence. The DCOP coordinates with USAID, key stakeholders, implementing partners and government representatives. This position manages the implementation of key project activities throughout target districts, oversees the work of project managers, and ensures efficient operational support for the project team. The DCOP will be based in Bamako with frequent (up to 25%) travel to the field.
- In collaboration with the COP, ensure that the project is delivered according to the contractual requirement with USAID (i.e. that all activities and deliverables are completed within the agreed timescale and budget, reports are submitted as per agreed schedules and any other requirements or criteria are fulfilled).
- Design and regularly update detailed annual work plans and ensure these are used by the team appropriately to monitor progress towards completion and achievement of project objectives.
- Ensure that programmatic and financial reports for USAID, the Government of Mali and Save the Children are prepared as required, ensuring these are of the highest quality and submitted in a timely manner to the donor. Be fully aware of USAID’s and Save the Children’s grant compliance regulations and processes.
- Assist with the preparation and revision of a realistic budget, authorizing and monitoring expenditure in line with the budget, donor guidelines and Save the Children’s grant management and financial regulations.
- Manage and motivate direct reports to achieve their work plan objectives, and to contribute to the achievement of the overall project goals.
- Maintain good working relationships with officials, government ministry counterparts, USAID implementing partners and the international and local NGO community.
- Work with project staff, Save the Children Technical Advisors and consortium partners to identify the technical support needs of the project and ensure this support is provided.
- Monitor country-level activities, identify challenges and develop appropriate reporting mechanisms, including progress and annual reports.
- Coordinate closely with the SC offices in administrative and HR matters, especially regarding operations and financial matters as they relate to the project;
- Attend and actively participate in periodic project meetings and ensure a summary of progress and challenges are prepared and presented with follow-up actions as required.
- Minimum of seven years of professional experience in managing and implementing complex technical projects of similar size and scope in a development context, with a minimum of five years’ experience in the region, ideally in Mali.
- At least three years of demonstrated experience in managing and supervising a technical team and in project design.
- Demonstrated ability to work effectively with government representatives, private sector entities, local community organizations, donors and other stakeholders, particularly at the sub-national level.
- In-depth knowledge of USAID approaches and regulations.
- Strengths in inspiring and enabling others through teamwork, training, and capacity building to realize organizational objectives.
- Excellent oral and written communication skills in English and French.
- Familiarity with the political, social, and cultural context of Mali is preferred.