Regional Programme Officer – West Africa

About the role

The Commonwealth Local Government Forum (CLGF) is hiring a programme officer to support the delivery of its West Africa programme, based with NALAG in Ghana and working in Ghana, Sierra Leone, Nigeria and Cameroon. The officer works closely with local and central government partners to plan, manage, monitor and implement the programme, and acts as the main CLGF point of contact in the region.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate the planning, implementation and monitoring of CLGF's DFID-funded regional programme in West Africa, within parameters set by the Deputy Secretary-General.
• Develop and maintain relationships with Board members, local partners, DFID and other development partners, and identify opportunities to leverage additional funding.
• Oversee projects according to the agreed workplan, develop the budget with the Finance Manager, oversee day-to-day finances and provide quarterly financial reports and a six-monthly progress report to DFID.
• Liaise with local DFID offices and partners, support proposal development and negotiation, and maintain a work programme that fits the agreed strategy.
• Develop and support a technical advisory committee, keep Board members informed and involved, and share case studies and research needs with regional managers and HQ.
• Monitor political developments in the region and advise on advocacy strategy, while ensuring adherence to the CLGF-NALAG MOU.
• Support policy events and meetings, represent CLGF at events across West Africa, and contribute to advocacy and knowledge management.

Required profile

• University or equivalent qualification and preferably a post-graduate qualification.
• At least 6 years of professional experience, preferably in project management within local government, international development or the voluntary sector.
• Experience identifying funding opportunities, building donor relationships and preparing applications.
• Knowledge of, or relevant experience in, West Africa; preferably a Commonwealth national with the right to live and work in Ghana.

Required skills

• Good project and programme management, with experience of monitoring and evaluation and project management tools.
• Financial management experience, preferably in an international context.
• Excellent written and oral communication, analytical skills and understanding of the Commonwealth and international institutions.
• Ability to work independently, remotely from head office, in a multi-cultural and politically sensitive environment, and willingness to travel within the region and overseas.

Applications are made through the online application form, with a closing date of 4 April 2014.