Deputy Country Director

Role & Responsibilities

The Deputy Country Director manages the development and oversees the implementation and development of the programme functions to facilitate the implementation of the country strategy.  Providing leadership, strategic direction, management and evaluation of all aspects of the programme, the Deputy Country Director also plays a key role in external representation, legal compliance, grant management, programme coordination and team leadership.

Project Overview

Madagascar is counted as the country with the second or third highest chronic malnutrition rate worldwide and Southern Madagascar is experiencing the worst drought and food security crisis recorded since 1981. Also, Madagascar is one of the most prone countries to Cyclones, hence, working on disaster preparedness is critical. Medair has been present in Madagascar since 2002 and currently runs WASH, Nutrition, DRR and ERT projects in different parts of the country.  

Workplace & Conditions

Field based position in Antananarivo, but with trips to remote field sites where living and working conditions will be more basic.

Key Activity Areas

Programme Design & Management

• Contribute to the development of the country programme strategy, in coordination with sub-offices and other key leads for strategy.

• Lead the design and development of new projects in collaboration with the country team.

• Manage a comprehensive activity plan for the programme, including resource needs analysis, covering the time frames of the project proposals.

• Prepare and implement policies, procedures and guidelines, as appropriate and with the relevant field managers and GSO staff, so as to enhance the smooth running of the programmes through standardised procedures and improved support.

• In collaboration with the CD/HCP ensure the timely submission of high-quality concept papers and proposals.

• Support Project Coordinators and the MEAL manager as needed to ensure effective implementation of Medair’s projects in Madagascar.

• Ensure accurate and timely reporting of activities to Country Director, GSO, Clusters and donors.

• Prepare and implement procedures and guidelines, as appropriate and with the relevant Sector Advisors, field project coordinators and GSO staff, so as to enhance the smooth running of the programmes.

• Represent Medair at relevant national and local meetings with coordination bodies, government officials, other NGOs, etc., reporting back as applicable to Country Director (or GSO in CDs absence).

• Support in-country focal points for cash programming, AAP, conflict sensitive programming, and gender/ protection mainstreaming.

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Staff Management

• Line manage designated staff, including delegation of tasks, setting objectives and follow up with staff.  

• Reflect the vision and live the values of Medair at all times, and especially when interacting with team members, beneficiaries, and external contacts.  

• Develop direct reports to improve their knowledge, competence and performance.

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Security Management

• Assist the Country Director in managing security incidents, as required.

• Lead the Security Management Team in the Country Directors’ absence.

• Assist the County Director in enforcing and updating local security guidelines and manuals.

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Communication

• Develop and maintain a transparent, honest and supportive communication structure with colleagues to ensure they are kept informed of programme related activities and requirements.

• Develop and maintain positive relationships with programme stakeholders, representing Medair and ensuring good co-operation and partnerships.

• In consultation with the Project Coordinators, develop monthly sitrep templates for each project and ensure that these are being submitted monthly and shared with the CD.

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Quality Management

• During field visits assess and provide feedback and recommendations on the quality of the assigned programme activities and interventions.

• Support the MEAL manager and team so that frequent and appropriate monitoring and evaluation of programme activities and outputs is taking place and considers specifically change-perceptions of beneficiaries, stakeholders and partners as recommended by CHS standards.  

• In collaboration with the Finance Manager, HR Manager and Logs Manager, review, develop and implement (as applicable) systems to improve transparency and to detect and ultimately prevent loss or fraud.

• Ensure country programmes are implemented in line with donor proposals and requirements and in accordance with Medair, donor, country and international standards e.g. Sphere and CHS standards, WHO recommendations, etc.

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Team Spiritual Life

• Reflect the values of Medair with team members, local staff, beneficiaries, and external contacts.

• Work, live, and pray together in our Christian faith- based team settings. Fully contribute to the rich spiritual life of your team, including team devotions, prayer, and words of encouragement.

• Encouraged to join and contribute to Medair’s international prayer network.

Qualifications

• University degree in a relevant subject such as Management/Development Studies/Business Administration or in a relevant technical subject – preferably public health related.

• Excellent French and English (spoken and written).

Experience / Competencies

• 2-3 years’ overseas work experience, preferably with a relief and rehabilitation NGO.

• 1-2 years of experience in a senior leadership position.

• Experience in the implementation of aid projects.

• A solid comprehension of MEAL approaches and processes.

• Proven record of successful proposals and experience in donor reporting.

• Coaching and training experience.

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