Program Manager Job Vacancy in Nairobi, Kenya

Position Title: Program Manager

The Health Support Organisation (THESO) is a South Sudanese-based 501 (C) (3) registered non-profit organisation dedicated to saving lives and relieving suffering through evidenced value-based humanitarian and developmental programs.

For over 15 years, THESO has been a beacon of hope, transforming lives in developing countries through evidence-based, sustainable humanitarian and development programs. We offer a strategic platform for donors to invest in impactful initiatives across health, education, WASH, nutrition, and livelihoods because we see the strength and resilience of our beneficiaries. We believe in their potential and strive to create a world where they can access the essentials for a dignified and prosperous life. Partnering with THESO means collaborating with a trusted, results-oriented organisation that delivers lasting change for millions through our diverse programs in health, education, WASH, and more, we empower beneficiaries with the tools and opportunities they need to build a brighter future for them. Our comprehensive expertise in health, education, WASH, and more, combined with our deep understanding of local contexts, creates fertile ground for innovative partnerships that deliver transformative impact.

THESO stands as a committed partner in achieving national development goals as we stand beside governments and communities on their journey towards self-sufficiency and dignity. We align our programs with government priorities, providing evidence-based, culturally sensitive interventions that complement and strengthen existing systems. Our expertise in key areas like health, education, WASH, and food security empowers communities and contributes to sustainable economic growth.

At THESO, you're not just an employee, you're a changemaker. You're part of a dedicated team driven by a shared passion: to alleviate suffering and empower communities. We offer a dynamic and fulfilling work environment where your expertise and talent make a tangible difference in the lives of millions.

Make a difference by volunteering your time and skills with THESO and experience the transformational power of hands-on service. Whether you're a medical professional, educator, engineer, or simply someone with a generous heart, your contribution counts. We offer diverse volunteer opportunities across various sectors, allowing you to connect with communities, share your knowledge, and be a catalyst for positive change. Let's work together to build a brighter future by co-creating a future where no community is left behind, and where health, education, and dignity are fundamental rights for all.

The Health Support Organisation (THESO) is seeking a Program Manager based in Nairobi - Kenya. This exciting and challenging position will be for 1 year to start, with an extension possibility depending on your performance.

What we are looking for

A strategic thinker with strong knowledge expertise and experience in both humanitarian and developmental programming. Proven expertise in setting up new core competencies is desired as well as a good understanding of post-conflict settings context.

The ideal candidate will have strong implementation oversight experience and an enthusiastic and proactive approach to building a program portfolio.

Team empowerment and capacity strengthening background with strong communication and presentation skills are required. Experience in coordination and managing various stakeholders locally, regionally, and globally is also necessary for this position.

What you will do

The role of the Program Manager (PM) position is to be responsible for technical supervision, strategic direction, implementation, and quality assurance as well as monitoring of THESO program activities in Kenya and South Sudan, as well as relevant staff mentoring and capacity development under the leadership of the program Director.

The PM is expected to follow THESO’s standards, procedures, and guidelines for project governance applicable to the projects. S/he is also responsible for the overall planning and coordination of all interventions, directly as an integrated approach across THESO areas of focus. S/he will lead the efforts to scale up THESO’s operations effectively address the immediate needs arising and ensure timely and quality provision of required support.

In this role, you will:

  • Develop program, technical SOPs / Guidelines, and Macro Logframes.
  • Develop the Core Competency, including by identifying trends, technical standards, and donor priorities, as well as by leading and/or co-leading donor, diplomatic, developmental, and humanitarian stakeholders field visits and meetings.
  • Lead the development of sound and evidence-based program project proposals and budgets for new projects/extensions of projects in conjunction with the relevant teams.
  • Responsible for providing technical and implementation support and guidance to field-based program staff in implementing THESO project(s)
  • Overall management of project staff, providing systematic training build capacity of technical staff and transfer key skills.
  • Coordinate and manage program project/s implementation (activities, budget, and project documentation) in line with proposals, strategies, and donor requirements.
  • Closely coordinate with all contractual commitments and cross-thematic areas (including digital approach and environmental considerations) to maximize integrated responses.
  • Ensure that key learnings are extracted from contractual commitments implementation and incorporate them in all thematic areas of contractual commitments and staff development processes.
  • Contribute to fundraising, develop and revise funding proposals, budgets, and donor reports.
  • Ensure compliance with contractual commitments across the program contractual commitments, THESO policies, program tools, handbooks, guidelines, and procedures to achieve high technical quality and synergies in project implementation.
  • Liaise and collaborate with relevant local and national authorities, stakeholders, and donors and represent THESO in relevant forums/clusters/working groups.
  • Contribute to the implementation of Safe and Inclusive Programming Minimum Standards across your area of work while promoting the rights of IDPs/returnees in line with the advocacy strategy.

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What you will bring

  • Minimum 10 years of experience within a humanitarian/recovery context.
  • Minimum 7 years of program expertise (as Specialist/Technical Adviser and/or Program/Project Manager).
  • Specific experience, knowledge, and expertise in:
    • market analysis, cash-based interventions, and market-based programs.
    • working in complex political contexts.
    • program start-up and expansion experience and experience leading needs assessment, project monitoring and evaluation activities, and program development.
    • working in remote management contexts is desirable.
    • knowledge of the Middle East Region and Palestine context specifically.
    • key technical standards (SPHERE, HAP, IASC, safe and inclusive programming, gender mainstreaming, IHL, humanitarian principles, etc.) with the ability to rate into programming.
    • Advanced computer skills, especially in MS Office; Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook.
  • Understanding of and commitment to:
    • working collaboratively with technical and operational colleagues within a matrix structure, including capacity strengthening.
    • integrated programming and/or coordinating multiple sectors/CCs.
  • Master’s degree in public health or related fields of study (would be advantageous).

Fluency in English, both written and verbal. Knowledge of Arabic is desirable.

  • Valid driver’s license.

How to apply

Interested applicants should send her/his CV with a cover letter and supporting documents addressed to the Operations Director, The Health Support Organisation (THESO). Email: hr@theso.org copying info@theso.org
THESO is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women candidates are strongly encouraged to apply

NB: Only shortlisted applicants shall be contacted for interviews.