Deputy Director - Programs

Company Description

Our client in the NGO sector is looking to hire a Deputy Director, Programs. The Deputy Director-Programs will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the programs of our client, ensuring they align with the organization's mission of driving sustainable urban development. This senior role involves designing long-term strategies, supervising program teams, managing partnerships, influencing policy advocacy, and ensuring operational excellence to achieve impactful outcomes

Job Description

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership and Planning

• Lead the development and implementation of multi-year program strategies, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and evolving urban development challenges.
• Collaborate with the Executive Director and senior management to establish priorities and influence policy directions.
• Foster innovation and integrate emerging trends into program design and delivery.

Program Management and Oversight

• Supervise and guide program leads to ensure timely and impactful delivery of projects.
• Oversee the planning, implementation, and monitoring of programs, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.
• Ensure programs are equipped with robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) frameworks to track performance, impact, and sustainability.

Stakeholder Engagement and Advocacy

• Serve as a strategic liaison with donors, government agencies, international organizations, and community-based groups.
• Represent the organization at national and global platforms, advocating for urban poverty reduction and sustainable development.
• Cultivate partnerships and mobilize resources to support program initiatives.

Team Leadership and Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop program teams, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and support team members in setting and achieving professional development goals.
• Promote cross-departmental collaboration to enhance program integration and impact.

Financial Oversight and Resource Mobilization

• Oversee program budgets and ensure the optimal allocation of resources.
• Monitor expenditures, address variances, and ensure financial accountability.
• Secure and manage large-scale funding from donors, ensuring compliance with their requirements.

Risk Management and Compliance

• Anticipate and mitigate risks related to program implementation and resource utilization.
• Ensure adherence to organizational policies, legal standards, and regulatory frameworks.
• Conduct periodic audits to uphold program integrity and compliance.

Operational Oversight

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of program activities, ensuring alignment with organizational standards and objectives.
• Establish effective communication channels within the program team and across departments to enhance coordination.

Qualifications

Qualifications and Experience

• Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Development Studies, Project Management, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8–10 years of senior leadership experience in program management, preferably in non-profit or urban development contexts.
• Proven expertise in community mobilization, urban poverty reduction, and sustainable development.
• Strong experience in financial management, budgeting, and donor compliance.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing MEAL frameworks.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional leadership and project management skills, with the ability to oversee multiple complex projects simultaneously.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with keen attention to detail.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in MS Office and project management tools (e.g., MS Project, Asana).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.