Project Manager

Background and Context

The USAID-funded Trade and Investment Facilitation (TIF) project’s purpose is to facilitate the export of Lebanese goods and services to generate foreign exchange through investments that simultaneously promote job creation, income generation, and improved livelihoods throughout the country.

TIF has three objectives:

1) increased exports of Lebanese goods and services,

2) investment facilitation leading to increased domestic investment, and

3) improved business and investment enabling environment.

TIF is looking to hire a project manager for Short Term Technical Assistance (STTA) to support in the co-creation and implementation of strategic development plans.

Tasks

The tasks for this assignment involve engaging a short-term business development expert to serve as a project manager. This role includes supporting the TIF team in several key areas: co-creating and validating development proposals, conducting in-depth analyses of development plans and creating a detailed, well-organized milestone schedule. Additionally, the project manager will be responsible for following up on the implementation of the milestone schedule to ensure alignment with project goals and objectives.

Co-creation and validation activities 

Estimated time: 15 - 20 days/Development Plan, to be adjusted based on the support required (20 days in total).

The technical experts will be required to:

• - Offer technical assistance in the development and validation of proposed Development Plans as requested by TIF. Ensure precise alignment with project goals and standards, while incorporating strong verification processes to meet the criteria expected in the designated sector.
• - Deliver technical guidance and support on the implementation and sequencing of the Development Plan during the co-creation phase. Adhere to the methodology devised by the TIF team, aligning with TIF's objectives, and ensuring a seamless transition between phases to maintain continuity and integrity of the project scope.
• - Facilitate the identification and engagement of key stakeholders and influential players to enhance capacity and promote expansion locally, regionally, and internationally.
• - Actively attend and contribute to meetings and workshops related to project development activities. Provide insights and expertise that drive project success, influence strategic decision-making, and ensure that all participants are aligned with the project's vision and objectives.
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• Implementation Activities

Estimated work: up to 5 days per month for a period of 12 months:

The technical expert will be required to:

• - Initiate and oversee the implementation process of the Development Plans, starting with the detailed scheduling and resource allocation as outlined by TIF.
• - Ensure that each phase of the implementation is launched according to the strategic timelines and adheres to defined standards.
• - Coordinate with the TIF team to monitor progress and make necessary adjustments to the implementation milestone document.
• - Strengthen relationships with key stakeholders throughout the implementation phase to secure ongoing support and resources. Engage influential players to leverage their expertise and influence, enhancing the project's reach and impact both locally and internationally.
• - Facilitate regular update meetings and workshops with all relevant parties, including TIF team members and stakeholders. In these sessions, discuss progress, address challenges, and refine strategies to enhance the effectiveness of the project implementation, ensuring alignment with overall objectives.
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• Field visits and verification

Estimated work: up to 5 days per month for a period of 12 months.

The technical expert will be required to:

• - Conduct field visits to project sites to perform regular check-ups, ensuring that all activities align with the project specifications and quality standards outlined in the development plans.
• - Organize follow-up meetings with partners to discuss project progress, address any concerns, and adjust strategies as necessary to meet the evolving needs of the project and stakeholders.
• - Verify that project activities are implemented according to the milestone schedule. Check for adherence to timelines and the accuracy of the work against the planned objectives and outcomes.
• - Ensure the proper delivery and installation of machinery and other critical resources. Inspect and confirm that all equipment meets the project's specifications and operational requirements before full-scale implementation.
• - Monitor the ongoing progress of work on the ground, assessing the effectiveness of the strategies employed and making necessary interventions to keep the project on track towards its goals.

Location of Assignment: The location of this assignment is across Lebanon.

Level of Effort and Period of Performance

Estimated 10 days per month for one year period. Duration can be adjusted based on the need

Reporting and Supervision

The consultant will take direction from the TIF Trade lead.

Deliverables:

Task 1: Co-creation activities: A well-developed proposal plan including milestone report, budget and key KPI’s

Task 2: Implementation Activities: A report showing the progress of the implementation activities and suggested actions to be taken

Task 3: Field visits and verification: Field visit report with supporting documents submitted to TIF team

Qualifications:

- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration required; Master’s degree preferred. Additional studies in business and financial management are advantageous.

- Specialized experience in business development, particularly in roles on USAID-funded projects. Proven expertise in co-creating and executing project proposals, managing stakeholder engagement, and successfully driving project deliverables.

• - Demonstrate a capability in planning and implementing business models and strategies tailored to meet the requirements of TIF projects.
• Experience in conducting business analysis, feasibility studies, and resource assessments for Industry Labs projects is a plus.
• - Experience working with top tier universities is an asset.
• - Strong ability to strategize and demonstrate business acumen.
• - Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to liaise with diverse stakeholder groups. 
• - Solid connections with key players, including technical consultants in the pharmaceutical industry, to enhance project feasibility and resource mobilization.
• - Strong communication skills in both written and oral English and Arabic.