World Learning – Chief of Party (CoP) - Higher Education Program - Lebanon

World Learning is a leading international non-profit organization advancing education, systems strengthening, and inclusive development through programming around the world. We are seeking an experienced Chief of Party (CoP) for an anticipated USAID-funded Higher Education program in Lebanon focused on strengthening the capacity of higher education institutions (HEIs) to improve the quality of their programs and build relationships with the private sector to ensure that their graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce.

The Chief of Party will be responsible for technical leadership and provide administrative oversight of the implementation of all components under this program. S/he will serve as World Learning’s principal liaison to the donor. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of strong leadership, organizational management, exemplary communication skills; be politically savvy with the ability to solve problems quickly while ensuring program quality and integrity; be a dynamic individual and seasoned director who is experienced in managing project implementation partnerships, coordinating with government entities, partner organizations, and program stakeholders; and able to work effectively and respectfully with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Strong track record of effective management in Lebanon or the Middle East region strongly desired.

Recruitment is contingent upon successful award of the project. Base of designation is expected to be Beirut, Lebanon.
Responsibilities
• Provide overall leadership, management, and strategic direction for the program;
• In conjunction with USAID and World Learning HQ, determine annual priorities, develop work plans, and ensure program responds to changing conditions and operating environments;
• Oversee program administration, implementation, and fiscal management to ensure financial activity aligns with budget allocations, internal policies, and USAID regulations;
• Oversee and monitor quality of all program activities, and ensure reports, work plans, and other program deliverables are timely and of high quality;
• Serve as overall communications/liaison with the donor, implementing partners, and key stakeholders including government representatives of Lebanon;
• Report regularly to World Learning HQ, providing timely updates of all situational, security, and program developments;
• Manage and supervise team of local and international staff and consultants;
• Represent World Learning at conferences, working groups, and meetings;
• Other responsibilities as assigned.

Requirements
• Master’s degree in a relevant field required, with a PhD strongly preferred;
• Experience in managing USAID projects with budgets in $10 million - $25 million range; with experience as a Chief of Party, Country Director, or Deputy for a project of similar scope and complexity, preferably in Lebanon or the region;
• A minimum of 10 years of professional experience in management of donor-funded projects related to
capacity development, higher education systems strengthening, and/or youth workforce development and employment; experience managing projects with small grants preferred;
• Demonstrated knowledge and application of relevant USAID policies and strategies, including USAID’s Education Policy; Private Sector Engagement Policy; Gender Equality and Female Empowerment Policy; Positive Youth Development; Youth Policy; and Collaborating, Learning, and Adapting Framework;
• Knowledge of political, social, economic, and development context of Lebanon required;
• Demonstrated knowledge of USAID rules, regulations, and reporting requirements; demonstrated knowledge establishing systems and leading project start-up under limited time constraints;
• Excellent communication and diplomatic skills with track record of collaborative and responsive management;
• Professional level of verbal and written fluency in English and Arabic required and French preferred;
• Strong leadership and personnel management skills;
• Commitment to inclusive development programming that brings to bear the talents of women, youth, minorities, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ persons.

World Learning is an equal employment opportunity/affirmative action/veterans/ADA employer, committed to increasing the diversity of its workforce.