Program Manager
Position Overview
Reports to: Matrix reporting, solid line to Program Manager at HQ / dotted line to Country Operations Director.
Location: Accra, Ghana.
Key Responsibilities
Program Management and Implementation:
- Oversee the planning, execution, and evaluation of all programs in Ghana across key sectors, including health, education, governance, and economic development.
- Create concept notes and proposals for new programs.
- Ensure the delivery of high-quality projects aligned with Africa Relief’s values and objectives.
- Manage day-to-day activities, including addressing project challenges, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, and meeting project timelines.
Leadership and Staff Management:
- Provide leadership, mentorship, and development opportunities for program staff, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed.
- Foster a positive, collaborative work environment that promotes growth and teamwork.
Financial and Compliance Oversight:
- Ensure that project expenditures are in line with approved budgets and provide regular forecasts to headquarters.
- Monitor subawards, review partner budgets, and ensure timely financial reporting and adherence to technical and quality standards.
Risk Management and Monitoring:
- Identify and mitigate potential risks related to project performance, financial issues, and compliance with local and international regulations.
- Lead the development of risk management strategies and ensure program activities remain on track.
- Implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems to track program performance and ensure impact targets are met.
Stakeholder Engagement and Representation:
- Represent Africa Relief in Ghana, liaising with government authorities, donors, local NGOs, and other key stakeholders.
- Build and foster relationships with international NGOs and other organizations to form strategic partnerships.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with community leaders, ensuring Africa Relief’s programs meet the needs of local populations.
- Engage in external networking opportunities to promote Africa Relief’s mission and explore opportunities for new partnerships and funding.
New Business Development:
- Stay informed about emerging trends and needs in Ghana that may present new program opportunities for Africa Relief and create need assessment data.
- Submit grant requests to international organizations, including UN stakeholders, to secure funding for programs.
Reporting and Communication:
- Provide regular updates and reports to the Program Director at headquarters on program progress, challenges, financials, and impacts, and keep the country operations director cc’d at all times.
- Ensure clear and transparent communication with all stakeholders, including staff, donors, and partners, to facilitate project success.
Technical Leadership:
- Engage with technical practices and share information on best practices within the region to enhance program performance and innovation.
- Attend relevant external events, conferences, and forums to represent Africa Relief and stay updated on regional developments in international aid.
Travel and Site Visits:
- Conduct regular field visits to project sites to monitor implementation and provide direct support to field teams.
- Ensure that programs are being executed as planned and address any challenges that may arise.
Qualifications:
Education:
- Bachelor’s degree in international development, Business Administration, Nonprofit Management, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
Experience:
- Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in program management, with at least 3 years in a leadership role managing complex programs or regional offices in international development.
Skills:
- Strong leadership and people management skills, including experience mentoring and developing staff.
- Proven expertise in financial management, including budget tracking, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations.
- Strong knowledge of project management, M&E, risk management, and compliance with donor requirements.
- Ability to represent the organization at high-level meetings with donors, government officials, and other stakeholders.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to report effectively to senior leadership.
- Fluency in English required; proficiency in local languages or French is an advantage.
Travel:
- Willingness to travel within the region and to international headquarters as necessary.
Application Process:
Interested candidates should submit their resume, cover letter, and references to Jobs@africa-relief.org with the subject line: Program Manager/Ghana - [your last name].