Chief of Party- Malawi Higher Education Project

World Learning is a leading international non-profit organization focusing on education and workforce development. We are seeking an experienced Chief of Party (CoP) for an anticipated USAID-funded higher education program in Malawi, focused on improving higher education access and transition rates of Malawian youth, particularly young women, as well as promoting linkages to employment and livelihoods.

The Chief of Party will be responsible for technical leadership and provide administrative oversight of the implementation of all components under this program. S/he will serve as World Learning’s principal liaison to the donor. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic individual and seasoned director, experienced in managing project implementation partnerships, and coordinating with government entities, partner organizations, and program stakeholders, and able to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds.

Responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership, management, and strategic direction for the program;

• In conjunction with USAID and World Learning HQ, determine annual priorities, develop work plans, and ensure program responds to changing conditions and operating environments;

• Oversee program administration, implementation, and fiscal management to ensure financial activity aligns with budget allocations, internal policies, and USAID regulations;

• Oversee and monitor quality of all program activities, and ensure reports, work plans, and other program deliverables are timely and of high quality;

• Serve as overall communications/liaison with the donor, implementing partners, and key stakeholders including government representatives of Malawi;

• Report regularly to World Learning HQ, providing timely updates of all situational, security, and program developments;

• Manage and supervise team of local and international staff and consultants;

• Represent World Learning at conferences, working groups, and meetings;

• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in a relevant field required, with a PhD strongly preferred;

• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in the successful implementation of donor-funded education or workforce development programming; with a minimum of 5 years of experience as a Chief of Party, Country Director, or Deputy for a donor-funded development project of similar size and scope, preferably in Malawi or the region;

• Technical expertise in higher education, technical and vocational education, workforce development, employment and entrepreneurship promotion, distance learning, and/or institutional capacity building is desirable;

• Previous resident work experience in Malawi or Southern Africa strongly preferred;

• Demonstrated knowledge of USAID rules, regulations, and reporting requirements;

• Excellent communication and diplomatic skills, with a professional level of verbal and written fluency in English;

• Commitment to inclusive programming that encourages full participation of individuals regardless of gender, disability status, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or other marginalized status.

World Learning is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action/veterans/ADA employer, committed to increasing the diversity of its workforce.

Recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project. Interested candidates should submit their CV or resume and cover letter (in English) to: malawirecruitment@worldlearning.org Please include the post title on the subject line as well as a note explaining your qualifications for the position. Only finalist candidates will be contacted. No telephone enquiries please. Interviews will be conducted on a rolling basis and qualified candidates should apply as soon as possible.