Ghana: Director of Programs
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Programs will play a critical role in developing and implementing the vision and direction of AWDF's fundraising and grantmaking strategies and initiatives. She will work in close collaboration with the ED, Board of Directors, Advisors and Program team, and will promote the visibility of AWDF and develop strategic alliances with peers in international philanthropy. She will supervise and manage a nine-person program staff and participate in fundraising and communications activities.
BACKGROUND
The African Women's Development Fund (AWDF) an Africa-wide fundraising and grant making Africa organisation based in Accra, Ghana requires the services of a Director of Programs to support the implementing of organisational programmes and policies that will bring about systemic change to actualize gender equality and women's rights in the context of poverty, violence, conflict and HIV/AIDS.
JOB SUMMARY
Reporting to the Executive Director, the Director of Programs will play a critical role in developing and implementing the vision and direction of AWDF's fundraising and grantmaking strategies and initiatives. She will work in close collaboration with the ED, Board of Directors, Advisors and Program team, and will promote the visibility of AWDF and develop strategic alliances with peers in international philanthropy. She will supervise and manage a nine-person program staff and participate in fundraising and communications activities.
SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
Provide oversight, strategy, direction and continuity for current fundraising activities, while at the same time assessing and responding to AWDF's growth and changing needs by expanding current activities and programs and creating new ones, as appropriate; Manage and oversee all
program initiatives and an annual grantmaking budget Support the Executive Director by providing strategic leadership and oversight for the fundraising and grantmaking programs. Work with other Senior Managers to develop program budgets; approve and monitor program expenses; initiate planning processes and facilitate grants decision-making. Conduct annual performance evaluations and actively guide staff professional development, providing opportunities for professional development as needed. Maintain an overview of team composition and dynamics; lead team-building and integration process. Stay well abreast of the international development/women's rights field to ensure that AWDF's programs are responsive to current challenges facing women worldwide and that its fundraising and grantmaking is effective, and timely; Collaborate with senior management team of the African Women's
Development Fund to: ensure the well-being of the organization as a whole; model effective leadership to all AWDF staff; set the tone for organization's inner workings; listen and provide guidance to staff; interpret AWDF vision, values, and strategies; Work closely with the Senior Management Team to ensure flow of relevant information and encourage effective coordination between teams, and to develop and plan special/new initiatives or programs as needed.
COMPETENCIES
Strong analytical and management skills
Ability to manage complex problems proactively/effectively
Ability to write good reports
Personal initiative and ability to work under pressure
Knowledge of current development theory, policies and practice
Ability to express oneself clearly and effectively both orally and in writing;
Ability to organize work and collaborate effectively with a wide range of stakeholders - including individuals of different national and cultural backgrounds, including networking across professional, thematic and organizational boundaries.
QUALIFICATIONS
An advanced degree in international relations, political science, gender studies, sociology, humanities or related field; A minimum of eight years professional experience working in the field of women's rights or relevant professional experience in social justice or human rights broadly, international work experience is preferred; A proven fundraising track record Proven managerial, operations, financial, problem solving, networking, and organizational development experience; A history of communicating effectively in writing and orally; including excellent public speaking skills for both formal and extemporaneous presentations; ability to represent AWDF to a diverse public. Proven ability to lead and engage in strategic planning processes; able to think critically, objectively, analytically, and strategically and to set priorities; History of collaborating successfully with a broad and diverse range of communities and individuals. Willingness and ability to travel 20% of time, including international and domestic travel. Working knowledge of French will be an advantage.
Qualified candidates should send typewritten applications (1 page) and a CV
of not more than 10 pages to the:
Senior Finance & Administration Manager, The African Women's Development Fund (AWDF), 25, Yiyiwa Street, Abelenkpe, Accra P.M.B.CT 89, Cantonments
Accra Ghana.
Copies of applications should be sent by email to
[email][email protected] indicating 'Director of Programs'. Applications should reach WDF not later than Arpil 28th 2006. Only shortlisted candidates will be
contacted for additional information and interviews.