Deputy Program Manager

Terms of Reference (ToR) for Deputy Program Manager

Position Title: Deputy Program Manager

Location: Lebanon - Tripoli with frequent visit to Beirut

Reports to: Programs Manager

Organization: COOPI Lebanon

Contract Type: Full Time

Duration: Till 31 December 2025

1. Background

COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale is an Italian humanitarian organization committed to fighting poverty and promoting sustainable development. COOPI Lebanon implements programs focused on protection, education, livelihoods, and basic assistance, supporting vulnerable populations across the country. The Deputy Program Manager will play a critical role in ensuring the effective implementation of COOPI Lebanon's projects and maintaining high program quality.

2. Purpose of the Position

The Deputy Program Manager will support the Programs Manager in the overall coordination, implementation, and monitoring of programs. The role requires an individual with extensive experience in project management, who can oversee multiple projects, ensure program quality, and lead teams effectively. The Deputy Program Manager will also be responsible for stakeholder engagement, reporting, and ensuring that projects are implemented in line with donor requirements and COOPI’s policies.

3. Key Responsibilities

Program Management and Coordination:

• Assist in the strategic planning, implementation, and monitoring of COOPI Lebanon’s programs.
• Ensure that program activities are implemented within scope, budget, and timeline.
• Develop and oversee work plans, ensuring alignment with COOPI’s and donor requirements.
• Identify and mitigate program risks and challenges in coordination with the Programs Manager.

Project Oversight and Quality Assurance:

• Ensure that all project deliverables meet high-quality standards and are in line with donor and COOPI Lebanon’s expectations.
• Monitor and evaluate program impact, ensuring lessons learned are documented and applied to improve future programming.
• Support the design and development of new projects, proposals, and funding applications.

Team Leadership and Capacity Building:

• Supervise and mentor project teams, providing guidance and technical support as needed.
• Build the capacity of project staff through training, coaching, and continuous learning opportunities.
• Promote a collaborative and inclusive work environment.

Financial and Compliance Oversight:

• Work closely with finance and logistics teams to ensure proper budget utilization and compliance with COOPI’s financial policies.
• Ensure that donor and organizational policies, procedures, and reporting requirements are followed.
• Support in budget monitoring and financial tracking for ongoing projects.

Stakeholder Engagement and Representation:

• Establish and maintain strong relationships with donors, government entities, local authorities, and partner organizations.
• Represent COOPI Lebanon in external meetings, clusters, and coordination platforms.
• Advocate for program priorities and ensure alignment with sectoral and national strategies.

Reporting and Documentation:

• Prepare high-quality program reports, briefs, and success stories for internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation of program activities, achievements, and challenges.
• Contribute to internal learning and knowledge-sharing processes within COOPI Lebanon.

4. Qualifications and Experience

Essential:

• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in program and project management within the humanitarian or development sector.
• Proven experience in managing multi-sectoral projects, including budget management and donor compliance.
• Strong knowledge of project cycle management, monitoring and evaluation (M&E), and reporting.
• Experience in working with international donors, NGOs, and governmental agencies.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proficiency in English and Arabic (French is an asset).
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.

Desirable:

• Experience working in Lebanon or the Middle East region.
• Familiarity with COOPI’s thematic areas such as protection, education, and livelihoods.
• Experience in proposal development and fundraising.

5. Competencies

• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Adaptability and flexibility in dynamic work environments.
• Commitment to humanitarian principles and COOPI’s mission.