Job: Nairobi-based Programme Manager for IMS/Fojo Somalia Media Support Programme

Vacancy announcement

Nairobi-based Programme Manager for
IMS/Fojo Somalia Media Support Programme

 

We are seeking a motivated and experienced colleague for our work with media development in Somalia.

International Media Support (IMS) and Fojo Media Institute (Fojo) are jointly implementing a four-year media development programme that aims to improve the possibilities for peace, reconciliation and democratic participation in Somalia.

The programme, which is funded by the government of Sweden, addresses the challenges of the Somali media sector by addressing three focus areas: media freedom, media independence, and journalistic quality. The three focus areas are interlinked, and synergy will be required in order to increase the programme’s impact. The programme is carried out in close cooperation with Somali partners, building on and strengthening their knowledge and expertise.

International Media Support (IMS) is a non-profit organisation working to support journalists and media in countries affected by armed conflict, human insecurity and political transition. Fojo Media Institute is part of Linnaeus University and strengthens free, independent and professional journalism in Sweden and internationally.

2. Role

The role of the Programme Manager is to implement and manage the IMS/Fojo media development programme in Somalia.

He/she will report to the Management Committee (including representatives of IMS and Fojo) who will supervise and provide strategic guidance to the Programme Manager on programme design and implementation.

The Programme Manager will be based in Nairobi, with frequent travel to Somalia.

3. Responsibilities

The Programme Manager is responsible for overall project cycle management and implementation and will be required to follow IMS and Fojo standards and procedures.

Responsibilities include:

Programme strategy and design

• Chair the regular meetings of the Management Committee and ensure a continuing flow of communication with IMS and Fojo to ensure the strategic direction and acceptable implementation of the programme;

• Initiate specific assessments and studies which can contribute to the design of programme strategies;
• Identify and develop relations with Somali, regional and international partners;
• Develop and implement mechanisms to support the project partners;
• Contribute to the composition of relevant teams and the recruitment of local and international advisors and consultants;
• Undertake resource mobilisation and fundraising activities.

Programme implementation

• Monitor the socio-political situation in Somalia closely and ensure that managers in Fojo and IMS are aware of important developments;
• Work with staff in Nairobi and Mogadishu to maintain an overview of programme finances and to ensure that the programme is implemented according to financial guidelines;
• Devise and implement processes to ensure that the programme keeps track of and meets deadlines for delivering activities, reporting progress, reporting finances, planning extensions, and renewing or ending individual and partner contracts;
• Prepare project-related documents (contracts, MoU’s, etc.) for processing at IMS and Fojo HQs;
• Maintain close contact with Somali, regional and international partners and ensure that activities are properly coordinated;
• Maintain, in close coordination with IMS and Fojo, regular communication and dialogue with programme donors;
• Plan and undertake regular missions to Somalia (South-Central, Somaliland and Puntland) when required in connection with programme design, implementation and/or monitoring and evaluation.

Monitoring and evaluation

• Ensure that the results-based framework is duly monitored according to the M&E system, including assessing impact, monitoring processes, and recording lessons learned so that implementation is continually improved;
• Initiate and undertake evaluations of partner projects and of specific output areas when needed;
• Assist in the organisation and implementation of overall programme reviews and evaluations.

Managing and supporting staff

• Lead the Somalia country programme team (Assistant Programme Manager in Nairobi and Programme Manager and Assistant Programme Manager in Mogadishu, and support staff) as well as advisors and consultants, in line with Fojo and IMS staff policies;
• Initiate production of and draft terms of reference, contracts and time allocation for team staff, advisors and consultants;
• Ensure that safety and security protocols are implemented and adhered to;
• Work in close collaboration with the Assistant Programme Manager in Nairobi on all of the above tasks where appropriate and distribute the workloads accordingly.

Representation and coordination

• Represent the programme at meetings and other events related to the programme;
• Ensure that the relevant authorities are continuously updated about the programme.

Communication

• Work with the IMS and Fojo communications units to develop and implement communication and visibility strategies for the programme’s target groups;
• Create content for programme impact overviews for donor and decision makers, for the programme websites and other communication platforms and encourage local partners and consultants to do the same.

4. Qualifications

Essential

• A relevant education, preferably at a higher degree level
• At least ten years’ relevant professional experience in programme management and working in politically sensitive environments, including at least 5 years managing an international, donor-funded project in a development country.
• Experience with and understanding of media and media development
• Demonstrable ability to work independently and solution-oriented while following guidelines
• Fluency in spoken and written English
• Experience in managing and supporting the development of staff
• Ability to communicate effectively to a wide range of stakeholders
• Resilience
• Cultural sensitivity

Desirable

• Experience living or working in a conflict zone
• Working experience in East Africa
• Knowledge of Somali language

5. Terms

The position is offered as a fixed term contract for the duration of two to three years with the possibility of an extension.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive salary commensurate with their skills and experience.

6. How to apply

Please note this is not a junior position. Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced candidates.

Please send a detailed CV (résumé) with a cover letter to [email protected] outlining your motivation for applying and how your skills and experience meet the needs of the position by Monday, 19 September 2016. Queries about the position can also be sent to this email address.

Everyone with the required qualifications and skills is encouraged to apply, regardless of sex, sexual orientation or gender identity.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to attend an interview during the first week of October. Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

The aim is for the successful candidate to take up the position from beginning of December 2016.

For more about International Media Support, visit: www.mediasupport.org or www.fojo.se.

 

 

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