COOPI is looking for a Programme/Area Coordinator in Sudan

COOPI responds to the needs of the most vulnerable populations in Sudan since 2004, including refugees, Internally Displaced People (IDPs), Returnees and vulnerable communities through an integrated WASH, Food Security and Livelihoods and Shelter approach. Key target groups include women and children, especially female- and child-headed households and unaccompanied minors, as well as the elderly and people living with disabilities. As part of its programmatic approach, COOPI mainstreams Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), Climate Action, Gender and Protection, and focuses both on life-saving interventions as well as building long-term resilience through community-based programming. Since 15 April 2023, COOPI, based in Port Sudan, has been providing support to war-affected populations in the states of Gedaref, Khartoum and North Darfur. COOPI is currently implementing projects funded by AICS, the European Union and UN agencies.

Description of the role

The Programme/Area Coordinator is responsible for the overall management, strategic direction, quality, and implementation of COOPI programmes in the country, including the definition and oversight of programme activities as well as the implementation, monitoring and evaluation system, in compliance with the organisation’s policies and standards. The Programme/Area Coordinator supports the Head of Mission in the relations with donors and partners and ensures effective representation of the Organisation with a wide range of stakeholders. The role also guarantees fair, accountable, and transparent management of programmes, financial resources, and human resources, while promoting a learning environment for staff and the organisation. In addition, the Programme/Area Coordinator ensures compliance with Standard Operating Procedures related to safety, security, and general operations.

Main responsibilities

INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS, LIASON AND NETWORKING

• In coordination with the Country Coordinator, meet regularly with donors and partners consolidating COOPI's position in the country, and manage their project visits in agreement with the Project Managers;
• Engage new potential donors and partners, working closely with the Head of Mission;
• Ensure participation in sectoral clusters directly or through delegated figures;
• Coordinate liaison activities with the Government, including registration procedures, preparation of agreements, and preparation of the documentation required for permits.

DEVELOPMENT

• Examine the priorities and strategies of the main institutional donors and draft project proposals based on COOPI's expertise and geographical presence;
• Coordinate the definition and implementation of the country programme strategy, with the support of the Head of Mission and of sectoral experts;
• Provide guidance on COOPI's position across the various sectors in accordance with HQ guidelines and coordinating with the Head of Mission;
• Capitalise on the sectoral experience gained in its geographical area of competence and develop standard approaches and practices to be implemented within the projects, respecting HQ guidelines.

MANAGEMENT

Project Management

• Proactively contribute in seeking funding opportunities to scale up and/or expand activities;
• Develop and draft new project proposals (ECHO, EU, AICS, UN) in cooperation with the country's logistics and administrative function;
• Ensure the final review of all project reports (interim, quarterly and final);
• Ensure the timely submission of reports according to internal and external deadlines;
• Ensure the effective monitoring, evaluation and documentation of all activities and processes through regular field visits and inform of activity changes to improve programme quality;
• Support the review and approval of MEAL plans for all projects;
• Leverage MEAL data to innovate and engage new donors and partners;
• Engage strategically with all technical sectors as needed and provide management and strategic input/oversight.

Coordination of field operations

• Participate directly to the work of supervised staff to provide hands-on training and support, inclusive of assistance in handling difficult situations;
• Provide support to Project Managers in order to solve programs’ implementation problems.

Human Resources Management

• Identify human resources needs in the framework of existing and/or new programmes;
• Participate in the staff selection process at the request of the Head of Mission and of the HQ for expatriate and national staff;
• Train Project Managers and other programme staff on the monitoring and quality aspects of activities, in coordination with the Head of Mission, the Region or the HQ;
• Evaluate staff for their part of the competence, according to COOPI procedures.

Communication management

• Support the production and distribution of COOPI's communication and visibility tools;
• Collect the necessary data and information, in collaboration with field teams, to deliver communication products.

Requirements

ESSENTIAL

• University master's degree in relevant subject (post graduate degree required);
• At least 3 years of work experience in formulating, implementing and coordinating projects with International NGOs;
• Experience working with different Donors (ECHO, EU, AICS and UN Agencies);
• Good knowledge of humanitarian standards and principles;
• Excellent reporting and proposal writing skills in English;
• Proactive aptitude in planning and coordination with different agencies, institutions and focal points;
• Results orientation and problem-solving skills;
• Strong management skills;
• Good leadership skills, aimed at team management and motivation;
• Ability to handle stressful and complex situations with a positive attitude;
• Diplomatic skills and confidentiality;
• Advanced computer skills;
• Sharing COOPI's vision and mission.

DESIRED

• Previous work experience in the region
• Knowledge of the Italian language
• Familiarity with logistics, procurement and security procedures

We reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the application closing date, once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please note that only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

COOPI Cooperazione Internazionale is an Italian secular and independent humanitarian organisation fighting against all forms of poverty to improve the world. Founded in 1965, today COOPI is present in 33 countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and the Middle East, with both emergency and development projects carried out by expatriate staff – an average of over 240 people per year – and national staff. The main institutional funders are the European Union – ECHO and INTPA – USAID, UN agencies, the Italian Government, local authorities and other European Governments.