About Millennium Challenge Account-Malawi II
The Government of Malawi signed a five-year agreement (“Compact”) with the Millennium Challenge Corporation (“MCC”) to fund specific programs targeted at reducing poverty and stimulating economic growth. MCC is a U.S. government agency focused on assisting countries dedicated to good governance, economic freedom, and investing in people. An Accountable Entity called the Millennium Challenge Account-Malawi II (“MCA-Malawi II”) has been created and designated by the Government of Malawi to implement the Compact.

Malawi Compact
The Compact consists of three projects, namely:

1. The Accelerated Growth Corridors Project (AGC) will focus on reducing transport costs in targeted rural
   areas. Under the AGC Project, the Road Corridor Improvement (RCI) Activity will target investment in
   physical upgrades and improvements across different classes of roads within four selected Accelerated
   Growth Corridors (AGCs) to improve rural access by addressing road conditions and reducing transport
   costs. The Policy and Institutional Reform and Capacity Building (PIR) Activity will focus on assisting the Government to address policy, legislative, institutional, and funding issues to ensure that road transport in AGC areas is well-maintained and managed.
2. The Increased Land Productivity Project will focus on improving land services, strengthening conditions for
   increased investment in land and better-functioning land markets through two main activities: the Land
   Administration Resourcing and Institutions Activity – which will support development, adoption, and
   implementation of reforms to expand national land-based revenues and address institutional change – and
   the City Council Land-Based Revenue Modernization Activity, which will expand coverage and collection
   of land-based revenues, to increase resources for key services and increase investment in land and finally.
3. The American Catalyst Facility for Development Project will focus on facilitating U.S. International Development Finance Corporation (DFC) investment in Malawi to catalyse increased private investment consistent with Compact objectives and increase the scale and impact of the Compact.

1. Communications Specialist

Position Objective
Reporting to the Communications Director, the Specialist will help develop and implement broad-based strategic communications strategies to effectively promote and publicize MCA-Malawi Il projects and activities along managing and tracking regular and as-needed stakeholder engagement across the projects. The Specialist will help develop a strong relationship with the media, serves as the official spokesperson for MCA-Malawi Il and will also develop media opportunities for MCA-Malawi II and MCC officials.

Duties and Responsibilities

I. Strategic Communications and External Relations

• Support the development and execution of comprehensive communications efforts, including managing events, media and stakeholder outreach, and public information campaigns.
• Assist in crafting and executing a detailed communications strategy aimed at engaging national_
  and community-based media, government officials, stakeholders, and other key audiences to ensure the success of projects throughout the compact’s duration.

• Assist in crafting a wide range of communication materials, such as press releases, media advisories, news briefs, fact sheets, video scripts, stories of impact, blogs, opinion pieces and others for public outreach strategies.
• Prepare drafts of speeches and talking points for the MCA-Malawi II CEO and senior staff for various public engagements.
• Work in close coordination with the MCC
  Resident Country Mission, MCC Headquarters, and the US Embassy on communications strategies, plans, and addressing any high-profile issues.

II. Media Engagement and Partnerships

• Foster and maintain strong relationships with media outlets, assisting the official spokesperson for MCA-Malawi Il in media relations.
• Monitor media coverage and liaise with media representatives to ensure the dissemination of accurate program information to the public.
• Engage in stakeholder relations efforts, helping to build, maintain, and utilize a network of contacts to support and promote the program effectively.
• Participate in the development and implementation of strategic plans for engaging stakeholders in the planning, monitoring, and evaluation phases of the program, in collaboration with the M&E Director.
• Collaborate with the M&E Director and project directors to produce and distribute timely updates (e.g., blogs, reports, newsletters) to stakeholders and target groups, providing essential program information.
• In collaboration with the MCA Malawi II M&E
  Director, assist in communicating program progress and achievements according to the M&E plan.
• Support the MCA-Malawi II CEO and relevant directors in creating and executing outreach strategies that highlight private sector involvement and successes within the compact, along with publicizing opportunities for engagement.

• Assist in organizing and conducting public consultation sessions and stakeholder engagement activities, ensuring alignment with International Finance Corporation (IFC)
• Performance Standards and the MCA-Malawi II Environmental and Social Management System (ESMS).
• Facilitate public access to information regarding Malawi and compact activities, including MCC-funded procurement opportunities.
• Contribute to the planning and execution of market outreach activities for procurements as needed.

III. Digital Communications, Social Media, and Branding

• Help enforce MCC branding guidelines across all program materials and communications.
• Aid in the management and updating of the MCA-Malawi Il website, ensuring it remains a vital source of information.
• Support the planning and management of social media content and activities across various
  platforms (Facebook, X, YouTube, LinkedIn, WhatsApp, Signal, etc.) maintaining a cohesive and strategic online presence.
• Assist in creating cutting-edge digital multimedia assets, including videos, photo stories, graphic design for diverse posters, infographics, PowerPoint presentation templates, e-newsletters, banner designs and others.

IV. Internal Communications and Capacity Building

• Support the implementation of the internal communication strategy to allow for an uninterrupted flow of information while reinforcing MCA-Malawi Il’s high-performance culture, teamwork, and values.
• Assist in efficiently managing communication initiatives, preparing work plans, monitoring communication results, and continuously managing the risk mitigation matrix.
• Assist in conducting orientation sessions and offering advice to MCA-Malawi II staff and consultants regarding both internal and external communications guidelines.
• Participate in the organization and management of events, both small and large scale, to showcase compact activities.

Education

• A Degree in Communications, Journalism, Community Development, Business Administration, or related field (advanced degree preferred).

Experience

• Approximately five (5) or more years of relevant working experience in strategic communications and community and public outreach.
• Experience working with national and community-based media; with previous on-the-record experience.
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in managing public information campaigns.
• Demonstrated knowledge and expertise in crafting and delivering messages to diverse stakeholders.
• Strong computer proficiency (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint) and willingness to learn additional applications (and accessible technology) as necessary.
• Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing, plus the ability to develop, maintain, and engage a broad range of contacts in the public and private sectors of  Malawi.
• Experience working with international organizations or donors a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Chichewa.

2. Manager, Financial Audit

Position Objective
The Manager, Financial Audit, under the supervision of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), is responsible for establishing a plan for auditing the operation and program activities of MCA-Malawi II that focuses on the identification and control of risk, improvements in the efficiency and effectiveness of operations and programs, and compliance with external laws and regulations and internal policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in MCA-Malawi II Board of Director’s audit committee and prepare committee review of key operational issues with a focus audit risk.
• Administratively assist the Director of Administration & Finance in preparing audit plans for annual funds accountability statement audit.
• Conduct audits based on the plan approved by the audit committee.
• Communicate audit results to the Board of Directors and appropriate program managers.
• Follow up on audit recommendations to ensure corrective actions are implemented.
• Evaluate internal control systems, especially those relating to financial management, and make recommendations for improvements needed to safeguard assets and ensure the integrity of financial transactions and financial reporting.
• Ensure the recommendations of the external auditor are implemented, as appropriate.
• Oversee and monitor the implementation of a Program Compliance Policy for the use of funds at the MCA-Malawi II
• Disseminate written policies and procedures related to compliance activities.
• Identify compliance issues that require follow-up or investigation.
• Report to the CEO and Board of Directors on a regular basis to review progress on program implementation and assist with establishing improvement plans.

Education

• University Degree in Accounting, Finance or Business Administration (graduate degree preferred).
• Certified Public Accountant (or equivalent), Certified Internal Auditor, or Certified Fraud Examiner preferred.

Experience

• Approximately ten (10) or more years of relevant experience in an international development organization, NGO, or similar. Familiarity with operations, accounting, finance, internal audit, quality assurance, and human resource procedures and regulations is a must.
• Demonstrated knowledge of and experience in applying the principles, techniques, practices and procedures of an internal audit or quality assurance function; developing sound internal controls for
  financial and operational programs; developing remediation programs where controls have been found deficient; developing risk assessment instruments and communicating to program managers how to assess risk in their respective areas.
• Experience in writing internal policies and procedures, evaluating processes, and documenting findings.
• Strong analytical, written/verbal communication, interpersonal, and relationship building skills.
• Ability to evaluate automated financial management systems and to develop methods for testing system controls.
• Good computer skills (MS Office, internet, familiarity with project management software).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

3. Procurement Specialist

Position Objective
The Procurement Specialist, under the supervision of the Director, Procurement, ensures that all procurement
transactions are implemented in accordance with the MCC Program Procurement Guidelines (PPG), consolidates and oversees all procurement activities, and reports on the progress of these activities. The Procurement Specialist also assists the Procurement Director in liaising with the Procurement Agent, MCC and outside entities from a variety of specialized sectors on all procurement activities and facilitates the smooth interplay between and among all elements of the procurement process. A key aspect of this responsibility involves synchronizing the substance and process elements of procurement activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Oversee delivery of various procurement services (across the organization, ensuring that the quality of services rendered meet organization needs and are consistent with MCC/MCA-Malawi II’s procurement standards.
• Advise on MCA-Malawi II’s and implementing entities’ procurement systems and determine their compliance with MCC standards, identifies issues and risks, to support internal and external audit exercises.
• Monitor and coordinate with the Procurement Agent to closely manage the progress of procurements against the Procurement Implementation Plans.
• Coordinate with MCA-Malawi II management and staff to ensure everyone understands their respective roles and responsibilities in the execution of procurement, appreciates the critical nature of their responsibilities and are aware of the serious consequences of missed deadlines and unacceptable inputs.
• Assess technical procurement requests and ensure that they are aligned to procurement plans.
• Coordinate with the Procurement Agent in the planning and implementation of technical procurement and tendering processes to ensure transparency, compliance with MCC/MCA-Malawi II procurement standards, quality of goods and suppliers, and documentation.
• Advise management on overall issues regarding procurement operations and provide recommendations to improve service delivery and efficiency.
• Monitor procurement flow to determine core issues affecting procurement delivery, efficiency, and timeliness.
• Anticipate organization-wide procurement needs according to purchasing trends and projections to sustain smooth delivery of expected services rendered.
• Assist MCA-Malawi II management team, particularly the MCA-Malawi II Project Directors and MCA-Malawi II Legal team, in interpreting and applying various contractual provisions with respect to the contractors’ performance and compliance with contractual obligations generally, and specifically with respect to claims from contractors for time extensions or extra payments.
• Oversee the contract administration and amendment/modification process in coordination with MCA-Malawi II management, including MCA-Malawi II Project Directors.
• Develop and applies fraud and corruption awareness and anti-fraud and corruption measures, with emphasis on the procurement and contract execution processes in collaboration with the MCA-Malawi II Procurement staff, Procurement Agent(s), MCA-Malawi II Project Directors and other managers, the MCA-Malawi II financial and legal teams, and MCC.
• Review reports submitted by the Procurement Agent and ensures that the Procurement Agent keeps records of all procurement activity.
• Oversee quality delivery by examining procurement requests, quality of goods, and other relevant documentation to ensure compliance to established work plans, as well as MCC/MCA Malawi II standards.
• Performs additional tasks and responsibilities assigned by the MCA-Malawi II Procurement Director or CEO.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree or relative equivalent required. (Major course of study in business administration,
  acquisition management, law, contracting, engineering, or procurement preferred.)
• Post-secondary education/training in public procurement subjects and/or an internationally recognized procurement qualification or certification (e.g., NIGP-CPP, CPPO from UCCPP, MCIPS, CPSM, and CPSD) would be an added advantage.
• Membership of the Malawi Institute of Procurement and Supplies.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of specialized or varied experience in service management related to establishing policies in the areas of procurement services, etc.
• Experience in the development and/or review of procurement documents (bidding documents, evaluation reports, contracts, etc.) for all categories of procurement (goods, works, services).
• Strong computer skills with proficiency in the use of common Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, and PowerPoint) and familiarity with Procurement Management Information Systems (SAP).
• Previous working experience with international donors or development agencies is a plus.
• Experience in procurement management systems and processes.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

4. Engineer (Two Positions)

Position Objective
The Engineer at the MCA-Malawi II plays a vital role in the successful implementation of various engineering projects under the multimillion-dollar compact addressing development challenges in Malawi. The position involves close collaboration with the government of Malawi, the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the United States, and project partners to ensure that engineering solutions are designed and executed effectively, efficiently, and in compliance with relevant standards and regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in the planning, design, and execution of engineering projects under the MCA-Malawi II compact, ensuring alignment with overall program objectives and compliance with the MCC’s policies
  and procedures.
• Conduct technical analyses, assessments, and feasibility studies to inform project design and decision-making, while considering environmental, social, and economic factors.
• Develop, review, and update technical specifications, drawings, and other engineering documents, ensuring that they meet the required standards and guidelines.
• Collaborate with the procurement team in the preparation and evaluation of tender documents, technical proposals, and contractor selection, ensuring that all engineering requirements are clearly defined and met.
• Monitor and supervise construction activities, ensuring that contractors adhere to the project scope, quality standards, timelines, and safety requirements.
• Coordinate with other MCA-Malawi II divisions, government agencies, and project stakeholders to ensure effective communication and collaboration during project implementation.
• Provide technical support and guidance to the MCA-Malawi II team, government counterparts, and project partners on engineering-related matters.
• Prepare and contribute to progress reports, presentations, and other materials related to engineering projects for internal and external audiences, as needed.
• Continuously stay abreast of emerging trends, best practices, and innovations in the field of engineering and contribute to the knowledge sharing within the MCA-Malawi II team.
• Perform additional duties and tasks as assigned by the AGC Director, the Chief Operating Officer and or the CEO.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering, preferably in Civil or Construction, Engineering, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years of relevant experience in the planning, design, and implementation of engineering projects, preferably in the context of large-scale development programs or infrastructure projects.
• Demonstrated experience in working with government, bilateral, or multilateral agencies/organizations in the implementation of engineering projects, preferably in the roads sector.
• Demonstrated experience in working with government, local councils, bilateral, or multilateral agencies/organizations in the implementation of reforms, preferably in the roads sector.
• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken, and fluency in the local language(s) is required.

5. GIS Specialist

Position Objective
The GIS Specialist at MCA-Malawi II plays a crucial role in enhancing the organization’s planning and development efforts through geospatial analysis and mapping. This position is responsible for developing, maintaining, and implementing geographic information systems (GIS) related to work planning and project development. The GIS Specialist will collaborate with various departments to support data-driven decision-making and project implementation. This role ensures that spatial data enhances decision-making and project outcomes, aligning with the strategic objectives of the compact projects.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Develop and maintain GIS databases and systems, ensuring their seamless integration with project planning and monitoring tools.
• Conduct detailed spatial analyses to inform project site selection, design, and impact assessments, leveraging GIS technology.
• Collaborate closely with project teams to embed GIS insights into all phases of work planning and execution, enhancing project outcomes.
• Design and facilitate GIS training programs for MCA-Malawi II staff to build internal capabilities in
  geospatial analysis and application.
• Engage with external stakeholders, including government agencies, community groups, and development partners, to collect and integrate spatial data relevant to project objectives.
• Lead the monitoring and evaluation of GIS-related activities, ensuring adherence to MCA-Malawi II and MCC guidelines and standards.
• Provide expert advice and technical support on GIS matters to project teams, management, and external partners as required.
• Innovate and recommend new GIS technologies and methodologies to improve project planning, monitoring, and impact evaluation.
• Ensure the accuracy and reliability of GIS data through rigorous quality control and validation processes.
• Coordinate with environmental and social teams to ensure GIS analyses consider environmental and social impacts and compliance.
• Develop and implement GIS-based tools and dashboards for real-time project monitoring and reporting to enhance decision-making.
• Participate in strategic planning sessions to align GIS activities with the overall objectives of Malawi II compact.
• Manage GIS data sharing and dissemination policies, ensuring ethical and secure handling of sensitive geographical information.
• Conduct field visits as necessary to verify GIS data accuracy, engage with community stakeholders, and provide on-ground support to project teams.

Education

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Geography, Geospatial Sciences, Land Survey, Environmental Sciences, or a related field.

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in GIS, including data management, spatial analysis, and application of GIS in project planning and implementation and reporting preferably in areas related to land, urban governance, public revenue, or public finance, within government at the local or national level and funded by government, bilateral, or multilateral organizations.
• Proficiency in GIS software (e.g., ArcGIS, QGIS), strong analytical skills, and experience with database management.
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities are essential.
• Familiarity with various bidding and procurement processes, including the preparation of tender documents, evaluation of bids, contract negotiation, and monitoring of contract compliance, within the context of public sector or development projects.
• Experience in developing and delivering GIS training programs or workshops to build internal capacity, including creating user-friendly guides and tutorials for non-GIS experts.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, contributing geospatial insights that enhance project outcomes, and experience in liaising with government, non-government, and community stakeholders to gather and integrate spatial data into planning processes.

6. Health and Safety Specialist

Position Objective
The Health and Safety Specialist is tasked with supporting the implementation and oversight of health and safety protocols for MCA-Malawi II projects. This role involves ensuring compliance with local and international health and safety standards, promoting a safe work environment, and facilitating training and awareness programs to minimize risks associated with the compact’s activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Assist in the development and execution of health and safety policies, plans, method statements procedures and programs in alignment with MCA-Malawi II objectives and legal requirements.
• Support the monitoring and evaluation of workplace environments to ensure health and safety compliance across all project sites.
• Contribute to the development and delivery of health and safety training and education programs for employees and contractors.
• Coordinate with project teams to identify health and safety risks and implement preventative measures.
• Assist in incident investigations, reporting, and documentation to ensure accurate record-keeping and compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Work closely with the ESP Manager to develop emergency response plans and procedures.
• Facilitate audits and inspections to ensure adherence to health and safety standards and regulations.
• Support the communication of health and safety protocols to all stakeholders, including employees, contractors, and local communities.
• Assist in the management of health and safety documentation and records for easy access and review.
• Collaborate with other departments to integrate health and safety considerations into project planning and execution.

Education

• Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Health and Safety, Environmental Science, Public Health, or related fields.

Experience

• Minimum of three (3) years of experience in health and safety management, preferably within construction, engineering, or related sectors.
• Knowledge of local and international health and safety regulations and standards.
• Experience in conducting risk assessments, audits, and inspections.
• Strong communication skills, both written and oral, and the ability to conduct training sessions.
• Proficiency in using Microsoft Office Suite and health and safety management software.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Certification in health and safety management (e.g., OSHA, NEBOSH) is preferred.
• Experience working with international organizations or donors a plus.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.

How to apply
Applications for these positions should be sent to: recruitment@mca-malawi2.gov.mw

Applications should be accompanied by the following  documents:

1. Curriculum Vitae containing detailed work experience.
2. Cover letter confirming interest and availability.
3. Soft copies of education and professional certificates (if available).

The closing date for receiving applications is 11th March 2024. Please note that only applications received through recruitment@mca-malawi2.gov.mw will be considered.

Any applications received through other channels will not be considered. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews. Interested applicants should indicate the position title in the subject line of the email.