Program Manager, Ukraine & Belarus

Every employee of IRI is responsible for carrying out the Mission of IRI and demonstrating the Core Values in their day-to-day operations. The Core Values, which are IRI’s foundational building blocks include:

Excellence– We believe in quality results delivered by investing in people. Freedom– We believe in exploration and experimentation to be agile and responsive. Respect- We believe in trust, empathy and empowering people. Teamwork- We believe in diversity, inclusion and the power of global collaboration. Transparency– We believe in open communication and clear decision-making. Accountability- We believe in personal responsibility as the foundation of success.

The Program Manager (PM) is responsible for the overall oversight and management of programs in Ukraine and Belarus and management of the relevant Program teams. The PM leads a team and contributes to the design of new programs.

Position Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in political science, international relations or related field. Graduate degree preferred.
• Five to Seven years professional experience in democratic governance and politics, preferably working directly with political parties, civil society organizations/NGOs and/or legislative bodies and officials. Experience working with local government officials and work elections and managing elections observation highly desirable.
• Working knowledge of the politics, economics, history and culture of the region and familiarity with the political context.
• Strong written and oral communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to manage, delegate and oversee multiple tasks.
• Attention to detail.
• Demonstrated management experience including ability to motivate and manage staff.
• Extensive experience working with USG funded projects and familiarity with USG regulations and processes.
• Demonstrated financial management experience in developing and administering program budgets.
• Ability to prepare, present and negotiate complex and sensitive agreements and/or project proposals with bilateral/multi-lateral agencies and other funder communities.
• Ability to communicate skills and experience to others as a trainer, advisor or technical consultant; sensitivity to working in advisory role with local organizations.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to coordinate and lead the efforts of other professionals to effectively meet program goals.
• Willingness to travel within the countries of assignment a significant amount throughout the year.
• Ability to analyze and report on quantitative and qualitative public opinion research.

Primary Functions & Responsibilities:

• Monitors, analyzes and reports on political and related developments in designated countries.
• Contributes to the development of a comprehensive country strategy and program objectives.
• Monitors various project objectives and ensures that staff, consultants and partners are kept on track to achieve results.
• Anticipates potential problems and trouble shoots project problems and offers solutions and actively takes part to lead resolution of them with creative and immediate solutions.
• Supervises staff assigned to the portfolio, including participating in the hiring, professional development and evaluation process for these staff. Sets specific goals and provides ongoing performance feedback.
• Serves as a resource for program staff, including addressing implementation strategies and challenges, developing innovative program ideas, and leading business development efforts for her/his assigned portfolio.
• Establishes, maintains, and develops productive working relationship with relevant stakeholders, consultants, field and DC staff.
• Maintains an understanding of Funder and IRI policies and procedures related to grant compliance and oversight.
• Understands a grant’s substantive, financial and compliance requirements.
• Leads kick-off and close-out processes.
• Ensures compliance with all procurement policies in the implementation of the grant including all contract paperwork.
• Monitors program team’s grant budgets, spending (budget trackers), and offers guidance and assistance when needed, with Program Services support.
• Supports IRI’s external relations efforts.
• Travels as needed for program oversight and implementation; if an immediate need arises deploys on short-to long-term service in a program in the field to maintain continuity of the program.
• Performs other duties as assigned.