Chief of Party (COP) - Location : Kabul, Afghanistan

Two positions with Roots of Peace

Chief of Party (COP)
Kabul, Afghanistan

Roots of Peace (www.rootsofpeace.org) has seven active programs with over $60 million in funding in Afghanistan focused primarily on agribusiness.  Roots of Peace (“ROP”) is seeking to hire an expatriate to serve as Chief of Party, overseeing the CHAMP Program with $35M in funding.  Individuals should have extensive experience interfacing with governmental officials and agencies, and serving as lead on implementation of multi-million dollar projects.  We are seeking professionals with excellent communication skills at all levels and with the ability to manage field implementation while also keeping the big picture in perspective.  Individual should be able to juggle multiple, complex activities simultaneously and while effectively managing each project to ensure they are on track, within budget and all necessary parties (i.e., donors, staff, third party partners) are consistently informed in a timely manner as mutually agreed upon in the contract.   Information on each of these programs is available upon request.

Responsibilities: 1. Assume overall responsibility for CHAMP Program: Manage Program, $35M, through January 2014; Team; Horticulture Program Director (expat); Deputy Horticulture Director (national); Marketing Program Director (national); 107 Professional staff (nationals); Horticulture extension, marketing, M&E, gender, admin; Finance Director (expat); 44 Support Staff (nationals).

2.   In coordination with Country Director, liaison with USAID, US Department of Defense (DOD) and Government of Islamic Republic of Afghanistan (GIRoA): Be responsible for all communications with USAID, DOD, GIRoA, Ministry of Agriculture, Irrigation and Livestock (MAIL), Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Economy, Department of NGOs, insuring that all reports and requests for information are delivered on time.  Insure that cordial, working relations are maintained with USAID, DOD and the GIRoA and that their appreciation and understanding of our work continues to strengthen.  When possible lead USAID, DOD and/or GIRoA officials to visit CHAMP implementation sites and explain the work.  Brief USAID and GIRoA at least on a monthly basis, on the progress and challenges of the program, in person.  Work proactively and directly with USAID and GIRoA on any issues impacting the program by presenting challenges and recommending solutions.

3. Administration of Program: Be able to continuously assess program implementation and make adjustments where necessary to keep program on track and/or enhance implementation.  Insure program deliverables are met.  Conduct field visits to verify quality work.  Oversee M&E system.  Manage any contract amendments or revisions if required.

4. Budget & Financial Management: Assume responsibility for the management of program budgets.  Work with ROP financial team to insure timely (within 30 days) invoicing for program activity.  Trouble shoot any invoicing problems with ROP financial team.  Anticipate purchasing needs and oversee procurements to maintain compliance with donor regulations.  Manage budget modification process as needed.

5. Human Resources: Work with ROP HR (Home Office & In Country) to manage all personnel issues.  Oversee all hiring, firing, position changes and salary changes for the teams.  6. Reporting: Assure that all USAID, DOD and GIRoA reports are submitted in a timely manner. Respond to USAID, DOD and GIRoA ad hoc information requests in a timely and professional manner.  Provide monthly updates and submit to Country Director and Executive Director.  Alert Country Director of any problems or issues immediately.  7.  Security: Monitor security in all program areas and make changes or improvements for ROP security plans, policies and procedures as required.

QUALIFICATIONS REQUIREMENTS: Experience: At least 10 years experience in international development and preferably experience working with USAID, experience in Agriculture or agribusiness is required; additional experience in business is a plus.  Communication: Excellent communication skills at every level (verbal and written), from donors, to government representatives to local Expat and national staff.  Management: Managed programs as a COP or team leader; minimum of 2 assignments. Geographic Experience: Multiple country experience required.  Funders: Minimum of 5+ years experience working with USAID.  Languages: Fluent in English.  Pashto or Dari a plus, but not required.  Education: College degree, graduate degree preferred.  Travel: Willing to travel into program areas that are considered safe for expatriates.  Compensation: Compensation is dependent upon experience.  ROP has a full benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, paid leave, tax deferred savings and paid holidays.

TO APPLY: send Cover letter and CV to resumes@rootsofpeace.org.  Closing date: 2/14/11.