National Project Manager WERP

January 17, 2024
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Job Description

About Aga Khan Foundation:

Aga Khan Foundation, Afghanistan (AKF (Afg)) is a key agency within the Aga Khan Development Network (AKDN), an international, non-denominational group of development agencies dedicated to enhancing living conditions and opportunities in impoverished regions. AKF’s mission, established in 1967, focuses on creating innovative solutions to social development challenges, primarily in Asia and East Africa. In Afghanistan, AKF collaborates with rural communities to address issues related to natural resource management, market development, governance, education, and health.

Job Description:

Position Objective:

The Project Manager for the Water Emergency Response Project (WERP) will lead, coordinate, and manage the successful implementation of the project in eight central and northern provinces of Afghanistan. This role involves overseeing relationships with Implementing Partners, the Project Implementation Unit (PIU), donors, and stakeholders. The Project Manager will ensure compliance with standards, provide oversight, and represent the Aga Khan Foundation in various forums.

Job Duties and Responsibilities:

Leadership and Team Management:

Lead the project team, fostering collaboration and motivation.

Organize regular team meetings to align efforts and address challenges.

Provide guidance for timely implementation of project activities within scope and budget.

Project Documentation and Compliance:

Develop, review, and maintain project documents, tools, and guidelines.

Ensure adherence to World Bank and AKF regulations and procedures.

Implement compliance measures to ensure transparency and mitigate risks.

Planning and Reporting:

Lead the preparation of the project inception phase.

Develop comprehensive project implementation plans, budgets, and reports.

Maintain clear communication with stakeholders regarding project progress.

Capacity Building and Process Improvement:

Provide internal capacity building to enhance AKF staff’s understanding of donor requirements.

Define and document project management processes aligned with compliance standards.

Continuously improve project management strategies based on lessons learned.

Technical Coordination and Quality Assurance:

Collaborate with the engineering team to align with project plans and procedures.

Oversee the survey, design, and implementation of water projects to ensure compliance.

Emphasize quality in all aspects of water project execution.

Procurement and Financial Oversight:

Oversee project procurement processes for fairness and transparency.

Collaborate with the finance team to monitor the project’s financial performance.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Research, and Learning (MERL):

Coordinate with the MERL team to develop an accurate project monitoring plan.

Use monitoring data to inform decision-making and adjust project strategies as needed.

Stakeholder Engagement and Coordination:

Coordinate with governmental stakeholders at national and regional levels.

Facilitate reporting of achievements and coordinate field visits with stakeholders.

Communication and Outreach:

Develop communication materials for external audiences.

Highlight project achievements, impacts, and lessons learned.

Maintain regular communication with PIU and donors.

Occasional Significant Duties and Responsibilities:

Represent the project at government and donor meetings, participate in strategic discussions, and provide necessary information to AKF units, donor/PIU, and administration.

Decision-Making & Authority:

To be discussed.

Job Requirements:

Job Specification:

  • Advanced degree in Engineering, Development, Project Management, or related field, with a minimum of 5 years’ project management experience.
  • Experience in coordinating/managing multi-sector and water projects is an advantage.
  • Strong report writing and computer skills (MS Office).
  • Good understanding of financial and donor standards and compliances.
  • Extensive experience in implementing complex projects in challenging environments.
  • Experience in program/project planning, monitoring, and design is an asset.

Required Core Competencies:

  • Strong analytical, communication, facilitation, and presentation skills.
  • Sensitivity to religious, cultural, and gender issues in the Afghan context.
  • Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
  • Ability to respond effectively to expectations from various parties.
  • Good team player with the ability to build and maintain collaborative relationships.
Submission Guidelines:

Interested applicants should submit their CV along with a cover letter to Jobs.afghanistan@akdn.org no later than 30th January 2024.

Important Notes:

  • Please quote the Vacancy Number as the Subject of the e-mail.
  • No supporting documents are required at this stage.
  • Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for further assessment.
  • Salary scale: Grade B based on NTA Salary scale.
  • Aga Khan Foundation Afghanistan adheres to equal opportunity and child safeguarding policies.
  • Female candidates are highly encouraged to apply.

Submission Email:

Jobs.afghanistan@akdn.org

Join Aga Khan Foundation Afghanistan in making a significant impact on water emergency response projects. Apply now and be a part of our commitment to equal opportunity and community development.

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