Position Description

• The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) will serve as the principal point of contact in Nigeria in the absence of the Chief of Party.
• The DCOP must have the requisite experience to effectively manage and/or collaborate with long and short-term specialists; ensure coordination and implementation of project activities; and manage monitoring and reporting systems.

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:

• Provide technical direction and leadership, including overall planning and management of activities and higher-level administrative oversight.
• Serve as the point of contact to USAID/Nigeria in the absence of the Chief of Party.
• Lead, oversee, and manage project staff (direct reports) and select consultants in achieving project results.
• Ensure activities are aligned with the project’s theory of change, objectives, and goals, and approved annual work plans.
• Coordinate annual work planning and technical direction of activities with the Chief of Party.
• Oversee management of staff and consultants for the coordination of technical deliverables.
• Provide timely and accurate reporting to USAID on all project areas.
• Develop and maintain relationships with key institutions and stakeholders across sectors and stakeholders.
• Oversee implementation of project’s monitoring and evaluation activities to ensure results are met.

Qualifications

• Graduate degree (master’s or higher) in economics, agriculture, business administration, or related field.
• Five (5) or more years of relevant technical experience in agriculture, market systems development, private sector development/engagement, value chain development, or related areas.
• Deputy Chief of Party experience, managing agriculture and value chains development projects in Africa; Nigeria a plus.
• Experience working in the West Africa region required, preferably in Nigeria.
• Demonstrated experience in grants management.
• Demonstrated managerial and supervisory experience, including supervising, and managing direct reports.
• Strong interpersonal skills to effectively manage a diverse consortium of stakeholders, such as government officials from various levels, private sector entities, other activities, and local NGOs/civil society entities.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English required.
• Ability to work in complex environments and across cultures.