Programme Director Job in Busia Kenya - Ministry of Planning, National Development and Vision 2030

The Government of Kenya is set to implement a new project, the Programme for Agriculture and Livelihoods in Western Communities (PALWECO) in collaboration with the Government of Finland. PALWECO is a Multi-Sectoral Rural Development Programme with focus on poverty reduction covering seven districts (Busia, Bunyala, Butula, Samia, Nambale, Teso South and Teso North) of Western Province.

It is in this context, the Ministry of State for Planning, National Development and Vision 2030 (MoPND) is seeking to recruit the Project Director who will be based in Busia, Kenya.

Candidates should have a clear understanding of the national long and short term development policies and how to cascade these policies into a regional context.

The requirement and terms of service for the Programme Director are as follows:

Key responsibilities:

    * Overall execution and management of the Programme, including planning, implementation and monitoring;
    * Providing leadership and guidance to Programme staff, long-term technical assistance and short-term consultants;
    * Leading and facilitating participatory processes for the preparation of annual work plans and budgets as well as progress and expenditure reports for approval by the Steering Committee and the Supervisory Board;
    * Contracting and supervising partnerships under the Programme; and preparing terms of reference for short term technical assistance;
    * Identifying implementation constraints, finding timely solutions together with partner organisations and the Programme’s technical assistance, and pro-actively proposing modifications to the programme’s strategy and work plans when required and justified;
    * Working closely with the Steering Committee and the Supervisory Board and liaising with the Embassy of Finland on Programme’s operations;
    * Administering, reporting on and being accountable to the Steering Committee for cost-efficient and transparent use of programme funds;
    * Coordinating and collaborating with national, devolved level government agencies, non-governmental organisations, civil society, the donor community and others; and,
    * Ensuring that the cross-cutting themes of gender equality, HIV/AIDS and environment are mainstreamed throughout the programme.

Qualifications and experience requested:

    * Masters degree in Economics with exposure in project planning and management, development studies, strategic management or relevant social sciences.
    * At least 10 years of relevant work experience with at least 5 years in a leadership position in programme management
    * Solid experience from internationally supported development projects; experience in project cycle management and logical framework approach;
    * Experience of working with public authorities, private sector and small-scale rural producers;
    * Proven track record in designing and implementing capacity building and learning- training interventions;
    * Professional of high standing with strong leadership and team building skills and excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment;
    * Proven ability to write reports clearly and concisely.
    * Knowledge of a regional language
      of Western Kenya would be an advantage;

Female candidates are encouraged to apply.

Duty station: Busia

Reporting to: MoPND&V2030 and the Supervisory Board of PALWECO

Duration: Minimum of 2 years but renewable for a maximum period of up to 5 years subject to satisfactory performance.

How to apply:

Send a cover letter, your CV and the names and contact details of 3 referees in a sealed envelope to the following address:

The Permanent Secretary
Ministry of Planning, National Development and Vision 2030
P. O. Box 30005-00100
Nairobi

Or hand delivered to Treasury Building, Harambee Avenue, 3rd floor Room No.303

Closing date: 17th December 2010

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.