• Job Description

  Req#: 3155

  Overview

  Position Location: Somalia

  Background:

  Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 25 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.

  Project Summary:

  Creative Associates seeks a Director of Operations for an anticipated USAID-funded education project that seeks to build upon USAID/Somalia’s investment in non-formal education and increase access to education for out-of-school children and youth in Somalia. Additionally, this project aims to improve the overall quality of education by increasing teacher capacity and further developing Teaching and Learning Materials that are evidence-based. The activity will also explore sustainable pathways for linking students who complete accelerated basic education with opportunities to continue their formal education.

  Reporting & Supervision:

  The Director of Operations will report to the Deputy Chief of Party and will be based in Mogadishu. S/he will directly supervise project managers in operations, office management, administration, HR, and procurement.

  Responsibilities

  Primary Responsibilities:

  • Ensure streamlined operations systems and work closely with the finance team to ensure financial management procedures are in line with Creative and donor rules and regulations.
  • Ensure that the operational policies, including field operations management guide inventory, fleet management, and IT are in place, compliant with project and donor policies, and implemented effectively.
  • Oversee the procurement of goods and services for the office per Creative’s policy.
  • Ensure that the project meets all USAID contractual requirements and ensure compliance with USAID policies and regulations.
  • Provide financial oversight, including the maintenance and monitoring of the project budget.
  • Manage financial systems, files, and maintain Creative’s online accounting system.
  • Liaise between Creative Associates' field and headquarters offices regarding all program financial matters and all internal or external audit requests, as needed.
  • Participate in ongoing analysis, forecasting and review of project expenses.
  • Manages and oversees staff responsible for arranging travel and logistics for staff and oversees organization of workshops.
  • Oversee the management of project’s assets, safeguarding of inventory and IT equipment, transport and vehicle management and maintenance of office premises.
  • Prepare monthly field expense reports and report monthly expenses to HQ Offices.
  • Responsible for program compliance with USG rules and regulations, and Creative policies and procedures.
  • Provide operational and financial training and guidance to project staff, grantees, local partners, and beneficiaries, as needed.
  • Respond to requests from USAID and supervisors as needed.
  • Travel as needed to ensure smooth and harmonized operations and financial processes, providing management support as necessary.

  Qualifications

  Required Skills & Qualifications:

  • Bachelor’s degree in project management, business management, administration, accounting, financial management, or related field. Master’s degree preferred.
  • Minimum of 6 years of relevant work experience, including at least 4 years of supervisory experience.
  • Experience with USAID project finances and budgeting (preferred) or similar work for other donors/U.S. Government agencies.
  • Knowledge of operating procedures and security considerations in complex environments.
  • Previous experience working with USAID strongly desired, or similar work for other donors/U.S. Government agencies.
  • Experience managing teams.
  • Experience in complex, crisis contexts.
  • Ability to work under pressure and efficiently handle multiple tasks.
  • Professional proficiency and fluency in written and spoken English, Somali desired.

• About the company

  Creative is an international development organization dedicated to supporting people around the world to realize the positive change they seek.

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