The British Embassy is a globally recognized and prestigious institution committed to fostering inclusive growth and development worldwide. As part of the UK Government’s mission, it promotes equality, embraces diversity, and works tirelessly to address key challenges across the globe. The Embassy is particularly known for its collaborative and inclusive work culture, which prioritizes the well-being and growth of employees. They strive to build organizational capability by welcoming and encouraging applications from people of all backgrounds, ensuring that their team is as diverse as the communities they serve.
The British Office Sudan (BOS) and the Role of Senior Programme Manager
The British Office Sudan (BOS), which is located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, is seeking a capable and experienced Senior Programme Manager to join its Programme Hub. The position presents a fantastic opportunity to make a meaningful impact on development and humanitarian programs aimed at Sudanese communities. In this leadership role, the Senior Programme Manager will be responsible for driving the delivery of high-impact projects that address complex challenges while managing financial risks, maintaining compliance, and ensuring that the programs align with the core objectives of the British Government.
As a Senior Programme Manager, you will have a crucial role in ensuring that Sudanese people benefit from robust and sustainable development and humanitarian aid. Your primary responsibilities will include overseeing the program cycle, managing finances, and mitigating risks. You will work closely with implementing partners across various sectors, such as multilateral organizations, international and Sudanese NGOs, and private sector suppliers. Additionally, your role will involve providing guidance and support to a team of program managers and officers, ensuring that they meet the expectations of both the UK Government and the beneficiaries of the programs.
Key Responsibilities and Impact
In your role as Senior Programme Manager, you will lead a portfolio of high-value and complex programs, driving both day-to-day operations and long-term strategic goals. Your leadership will be pivotal in ensuring that the British Embassy’s development and humanitarian programs are delivered efficiently and effectively. You will help shape the direction of the programs from their design and mobilization through to their implementation, playing a significant role in managing relationships with implementing partners and ensuring that their performance meets the established standards.
One of your primary responsibilities will be to ensure strong financial management within your team. This includes overseeing the financial forecasting process, monitoring spending limits, and ensuring that financial reports are accurate and compliant with the UK Government’s requirements. You will be involved in managing and reviewing annual audited statements, ensuring value for money and timely payment of invoices. In addition to financial oversight, you will take proactive steps to manage risks, including fiduciary risks, working closely with partners and stakeholders to identify potential issues and mitigate them before they impact program outcomes.
Another significant aspect of your role will be capacity building. You will work with the Head of the Programme Hub to strengthen the program management capabilities of your team, sharing lessons learned, and helping improve processes. The Senior Programme Manager will also take a hands-on approach to mentoring and developing program managers and officers, ensuring that they have the skills and resources needed to succeed in their roles. This commitment to team development will enhance the overall effectiveness of the British Office Sudan and contribute to the continued success of its programs.
Required Skills, Qualifications, and Experience
The ideal candidate for this position will be a strong and credible leader with a proven track record of delivering complex programs in challenging environments. You should have extensive experience in program and project management, with a solid understanding of the best practices, procedures, and systems required to oversee both development and humanitarian programs. Proven financial management and risk mitigation expertise are essential for ensuring that programs are delivered on time and within budget.
To excel in this role, you should have the resilience and adaptability to manage multiple programs concurrently while also being able to take initiative and effectively manage your own workload. Your ability to work with a wide range of stakeholders, both internal and external, is critical, as you will frequently engage with implementing partners, government representatives, and other donors. Effective line management skills are also required, as you will be responsible for supporting the personal and professional development of team members and ensuring that the team meets its objectives.
While experience in the international development or humanitarian sector is highly desirable, particularly in fragile or conflict-affected contexts, it is not mandatory. However, prior experience working in or on Sudan, as well as familiarity with Arabic, would be considered a strong advantage. Formal qualifications in program management (such as PRINCE2, AGILE, or APM PMQ) are also beneficial.
Employment Conditions and Application Details
This full-time contract position will be based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with a competitive salary ranging from USD 1,603.08 to USD 2,404.67 per month. The role offers flexibility, including the potential for remote working, but candidates should note that part-time or job-share arrangements will not be considered for this critical role. Travel requirements for the position are expected to be limited due to the ongoing conflict in Sudan, but there may be some future travel opportunities depending on the situation.
The British Office Sudan is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. As such, they encourage applications from all qualified candidates regardless of gender, ethnicity, or background. Employees recruited locally are subject to terms and conditions in line with Ethiopian employment law. All candidates must be legally eligible to work and reside in Ethiopia, or they must demonstrate the eligibility to obtain the necessary permits and visas.
For more information about this exciting opportunity and to apply, please visit the British Embassy’s application portal here.
Don’t miss this chance to be part of a dynamic and impactful team working towards positive change in Sudan through development and humanitarian programs. Apply now before the December deadline and take your career to new heights with the British Embassy.