Start-up Hub, Project Manager

Start-up Hub, Project Manager

Position: Start-up Hub, Programme Manager

Location: Preferably Istanbul – Turkey / Other countries can be discussed

Application Deadline: 15 December 2022

Duration: 12 months (with possibility of extension)

Start Date: January 2023

Are you an experienced programme manager who has worked in conflict affected states, who seeks a leading role in starting operations in new countries at an international NGO? We are looking for an entrepreneur and resilience spirited person with a very strong cultural sensitive and political antenna. You see opportunities in otherwise difficult environments and mobilise stakeholders behind initiatives.

SPARK is looking for a Programme Manager to set up and manage the overall implementation of the inception phase of programmes in new countries. (S)he represents SPARK towards local authorities and other stakeholders during programme inception and reports to SPARK CEO.

SPARK has recently embraced on an ambitious 2030 Strategy. The Start-up track of this Strategy will be led by you. This includes set up operations in the new countries within first 100 days period.

We are looking for an experienced professional with a can-do attitude. A pro-active leader who takes initiative and resolves challenges with flair. Who can guide, coach and mentor colleagues within and outside functions. Somebody who enjoys working in a multi-cultural team and knows what it takes to work in a decentral organisation.

Main Tasks and Responsibilities

The responsibilities and tasks include, but are not limited to:

• Set up operations and start-up programmes in new selected countries such as Ukraine, Afghanistan, Yemen;
• Responsible for the quality control and timely implementation, coordination of SPARK projects for the first 100 days of activities as per donor requirements and partner agreements.;
• Relationship management with relevant stakeholders
• Serve as the representative for SPARK vis-a-vis federal Government authorities in and ensure that all administrative requirements are fulfilled as per local laws and regulations in the inception period of new programme countries
• Responsible for the team management and people manager for SPARK staff in the country
• Promote SPARK values
• Work in compliance with SPARK policies and procedures
• Other tasks when required.

Requirements and Skills

• Minimum 8 years’ experience with multi-donor programme implementation and team management in fragile countries
• Good understanding of political environment and operational space in fragile countries
• Experience in managing teams with members of diverse backgrounds.
• Full professional proficiency in English
• Minimum of at least 5 years of proven experience with entrepreneurship SME development, jobs creation or livelihoods development is an asset

SPARK Offers

• A challenging and exciting position in an international environment;
• Remuneration based on experience and full-time contract (40h/per week)
• A dynamic working environment and great team

How to apply?

If you have any questions regarding SPARK or the position, please visit our website www.spark-online.org.

Please apply through SPARK’s online application platform at https://vacancy.spark-online.org/Tab1/LoadProfileFromVacancy/484 The deadline for application is 15 Dec 2022. Reference: Start-up Hub – Programme Manager

All applications will be assessed on rolling basis; interviews can therefore take place before the application deadline. However, due to the large volume of applications we receive, we cannot respond to every applicant individually. There may be a delay between the deadline and the moment we contact selected applicants.

If you have not received a reply we regret to inform that we have continued with other candidates.

About SPARK

SPARK offers access to higher (vocational) education and supports entrepreneurship development in fragile and conflict affected states so that young, ambitious people can lead their societies into stability and prosperity. Over the last 24 years, SPARK has built a strong record of accomplishment in over 25 states in the Middle East, Africa and Europe. In doing so, SPARK contributes to laying a foundation to rebuild conflict-affected regions, once the conflict is over. For example, SPARK is the largest university- and higher vocational scholarship provider for Syrian refugees and one of the largest providers of coaching, training and access to finance for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMES) in the MENA region.

By collaborating with local organisations, SPARK builds local capacity to enable sustainability of its programmes. SPARK is a dynamic and growing, international not-for-profit development organisation with 100+ staff members, in more than 12 offices.

We believe that sustainable, economic growth is essential for the alleviation of poverty. By offering private-sector development services to young people in conflict-affected regions, we believe that the potential for further conflict is significantly reduced.

In terms of business development in fragile states, we are a full-service organisation. We offer a range of options that enable local partner organisations to provide existing SME’s and new entrepreneurs with all the tools they need to flourish. In the past decade, SPARK has set up around ten Business Support Centres in the EU and Africa. Business plan competitions are also often organised, and winners of these competitions receive business skills trainings. Another of the tools we offer is value chain development and access to finance. Finally, we work closely with various governments in fragile states to improve conditions for entrepreneurs and job creators