PROGRAM OFFICER

 

About Spark 

Spark Microgrants believes in a world where everyone lives with dignity and determines their positive future. Spark has pioneered a poverty alleviation model in East Africa that draws on the evidence from ultra-poor graduation and Community-Driven Development approaches, known as the facilitated collective action process (FCAP). The FCAP combines a cash grant plus facilitated community meetings and training to catalyze improved livelihoods, stronger social cohesion, and greater gender equity. Spark is partnering with NGO and Government partners to scale adoption and impacts for rural communities – on their terms. Read more about our Approach,Impact, and Values on our website.

About the role

We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Program Officer to join our team and support the implementation of the Malawi program and the Design team on the Program Implementation initiative. The Program Officer will play a crucial role in working directly with communities, enhance strategic collaborations, oversee program implementation and monitoring, and contribute to design responsibilities. This pivotal role involves ensuring the seamless, efficient, and cost-effective execution and expansion of all Spark Microgrants projects and activities, ultimately driving the achievement of the organization’s objectives and KPIs.

Responsibilities 

Programs: 80%

• Capacity Building and Training:

• Facilitate capacity-building sessions for partner-trainers, stakeholders, and organizational staff to enhance their skills and competencies and promote knowledge-sharing.
• Collaborate with relevant officers to develop and implement effective training programs aligned with organizational objectives.

• Stakeholder Engagement and Networking:

• Coordinate Spark and the partner relationship with consistent information sharing and reporting including MOU follow up & implementation.
• Share program updates and progress with stakeholders through District Councils, Technical Working Groups, and other relevant platforms to maintain transparency and accountability.
• Collaborate with District Community Development Assistants (DAs) to advance Spark Microgrants’ Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) in selected communities, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Coordinate and lead field visits with partners, program leads, donors, and other stakeholders to provide insights into program activities and foster collaboration.

• Reporting and Documentation:

• Compile comprehensive reports under the programming section and submit them to the Program Manager, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery.
• Contribute to the development of country annual budgets through developing program activity budgets and ensuring budget compliance during implementation.

Design Responsibilities (20% of Role):

• Module and Tool Co-Design:

• Support the process of co-designing modules and tools with partner organizations or government entities in Malawi to ensure relevance and effectiveness.

• FCAP Model Development:

• Contribute to the adaptation and development of the FCAP model, guides, and tools to meet the needs of villages, users, and partners, including coordinating translations when necessary.
• Collect learnings from FCAP implementation in Malawian communities and participate in discussions to integrate new insights into the FCAP model effectively.
• Suggest and test new ideas for the FCAP model, collaborating with the wider Design Team to refine and implement innovative approaches.

• Team Management:

• Manage the Malawi Design Fellow, providing guidance and support to ensure their contributions align with organizational objectives and priorities.
• Managea team of trainers to ensure quality program implementation
• Lead the onboarding process of new trainers and provide on job coaching and mentorship
• Lead bi annual & annual performance reviews for trainers & program liaison  officer
• Ensure effective weekly team meeting are conducted

The PO will:  

• Report to the Program Manager, and will have weekly check-ins related to projects, performance, and professional development.
• Participate in weekly team meetings and monthly team training.
• Participate in Human-Centered Design practices and training.
• Participate in planning and budgeting.

Requirements and other considerations

• Bachelor’s degree in a related field plus 2+ years experience in Social Development, Project Management, Community Development, Agribusiness, Agriculture, Management, Education, Business Administration, and Economics roles in a reputable organization.
• Experience in working in Malawi is required.
• Experience in designing and implementing program curricula is preferred.
• Excellent English and Chichewa written and oral communication.
• Experience in Human-Centered Design, gender equality, economic development, and community engagement.

OTHER INFORMATION

Job Location: The selected candidate is expected to be based in Lilongwe, Malawi, to ensure proximity to the Spark Offices and partners.

Contract Duration: This is a two-year contract .

Start date: As soon as possible

Application deadline: On a rolling basis, we reserve the right to close this recruitment process at any time.

TO APPLY Follow the Link to apply: https://sparkmicrogrants.bamboohr.com/careers/99

Application Details:

• Attach your resume and a cover letter that explains why your experience and background make you the ideal candidate for this position. The resume should be at most two pages.
• Please also include a sample of a curriculum you designed or participated in designing to this position’s responsibilities.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

WHAT WE OFFER

• A competitive salary, depending on experience.
• Talented and welcoming colleagues, 90% of whom are based in the countries where we work.
• A supportive environment with plenty of professional development opportunities.
• A chance to help shape the future of international development.

Safeguarding

Our safeguarding follows a do no harm principle. All Spark staff are to respect and uphold the safeguarding procedures and principles to minimize harm to stakeholders, program participants, and the environment, in compliance with the World Bank Environmental and Social Framework and Rwandan Legislation.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Spark Microgrants provides equal employment and advancement opportunities to all individuals. Employment decisions at Spark are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. Spark does not discriminate in employment opportunities or practices based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, gender identity, age, disability, marital status, or any other characteristic protected by the law. Spark will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities unless doing so would result in undue hardship to daily operations.