National Programme Officer (Local Governance & Human Rights)

The Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) is Switzerland’s international cooperation agency within the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs. Through its SDC office in Islamabad, Switzerland has been engaged in development cooperation with Pakistan for the last 50 years.

To complete its team, the following job vacancy is announced.

Main Responsibilities:

The National Programme Officer (NPO) is the entry point for all topics relevant for local governance and human rights and contributes to the strategic development and implementation of the overall Pakistan Hindukush Programme. Among other duties she/he is responsible for the following tasks:

·          Lead development of the Local Governance and Human Rights portfolio in collaboration with relevant team members of the Humanitarian Aid e.g. Identify and develop project ideas and  assess potential partners,  prepare concept notes

·          Negotiate new phases/projects with partners, actively participate in the planning process

·          Draft project and programme related documents for submission to HQ as well as agreements and memorandums

·          Appraise yearly plan of operations, budget etc. and supervise the flow of funds, ensuring their economical and objective use

·          Steer and monitor projects in liaison with implementing partners

·          Review and analyse reports submitted by partners, give relevant feedback and discuss the results achieved with partners

·          Plan, undertake and document field visits

·          Promote exchange and dialogue with relevant authorities and stakeholders

·          Build and foster network of relevant actors, in particular authorities, Donors, Civil Society Organisations and national/international NGOs

·          Analyse ongoing developments and changes in the assigned domain and report to SDC Management accordingly, highlighting the relevance for and impact on the SDC programme

·          Represent SDC Pakistan in thematic and project related experts and development partner groups

·          Actively participate in SDC events, strategic key moments and thematic seminars and contribute to the elaboration of the pertinent documents such as Annual Report

Requirements:

·          Master degree or comparable training in political or social science, economy, international development or other relevant fields

·          Several years of experience in development work in a comparable position focusing on local governance and human rights; at least three years’ experience in Pakistan

·          Familiarity with the functioning of the Government of Pakistan and its line departments, in particular at the provincial level (KPK) and in FATA

·          Thorough understanding of the national and regional context (political, economic, social), including sound knowledge of policy frameworks and environment related to local governance in Pakistan; with special reference to changes brought about by the 18th amendment

·          Excellent communication skills with high level of written and oral faculty of expression in English

·          Practical experience in project cycle management

·          Sound knowledge of results-based planning, monitoring and evaluation methods

·          Awareness of conflict sensitive programme management and gender issues

·          Strong analytical and conceptual capabilities, vocalizes early support for change

·          Willingness to travel to KPK and FATA

·          Team player; experience of working in a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural team

·          Resilient to high workload and ability to work independently and under time pressure

·          Networking, negotiating and advisory skills are an essential requirement

·          Sensitivity to political, social, intercultural and security issues.

Important notice: the application has to contain (a) an up to date CV, (b) a covering/motivational letter which should include why you think you are suitable for this position; salary expectations and two references of people that are not related to you. Only complete submissions will be taken into consideration. No direct application to SDC will be accepted.

The closing date for applications is October 16, 2016. Kindly ensure that you meet all requirements before applying.

We encourage diversity in our workplace and support an inclusive work environment.

Women are especially encouraged to apply.

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. No direct application to SDC will be accepted. Phone calls will not be entertained.