About Mercy Corps
Mercy Corps has been at the forefront of humanitarian and development efforts in Ethiopia since 2004. With a mission to build resilience and transform lives, the organization collaborates with government entities, private sector players, and civil society to address the country’s most pressing challenges. Mercy Corps combines innovative strategies with a deep understanding of local contexts, focusing on empowering communities to thrive amidst climate and conflict-related adversities.
The organization’s programs emphasize sustainable solutions across various sectors. By improving livelihoods, increasing food security, fostering social cohesion, and ensuring access to clean water and sanitation, Mercy Corps creates long-term positive impacts. With operations spanning multiple regions, including Oromia, Somali, Tigray, and more, its efforts are supported by renowned global donors such as USAID, the European Union, and the Hilton Foundation.
At the heart of Mercy Corps’ strategy is a commitment to inclusivity and local empowerment. By integrating market systems, promoting effective governance, and responding to urgent humanitarian needs, the organization ensures that its initiatives are both impactful and sustainable. Mercy Corps stands as a beacon of hope for communities striving to overcome adversity and build brighter futures.
West Hararge Zonal Program Coordinator
Role Overview
The Zonal Program Coordinator will play a pivotal role in overseeing the Highland Resilience Activity (HRA) in the West Hararge Zone, Oromia Region. This USAID-funded program seeks to empower vulnerable households under the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP) to achieve self-sufficiency and resilience against shocks. Through a blend of market-based approaches and community-led interventions, the program targets 120,000 households for graduation from social safety net dependence.
Based in Chiro, the coordinator will lead program planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation at the zonal level. Working closely with woreda coordinators, government stakeholders, and private sector partners, the role ensures that interventions are tailored to the local context. The coordinator will also manage partnerships and ensure that the program adheres to Mercy Corps’ high standards of accountability, sustainability, and responsiveness.
Responsibilities
The Zonal Program Coordinator will provide technical leadership to ensure that the program’s “push” interventions are effectively designed and implemented. This involves conducting assessments, tailoring activities to the PSNP households, and aligning efforts with the program’s overarching goals. Additionally, the coordinator will oversee the sequencing, layering, and integration of activities at the zonal, woreda, and kebele levels.
Program management responsibilities include preparing work plans, monitoring progress, and ensuring timely delivery of reports to stakeholders. The coordinator will maintain close collaboration with regional teams and technical advisors, ensuring that the program remains adaptive to evolving local contexts. Regular field visits to monitor implementation quality and engage with beneficiaries are essential to this role.
In addition to program management, the coordinator will facilitate partnerships with government agencies, private sector actors, and other implementing organizations. This involves representing Mercy Corps in zonal coordination meetings and fostering collaboration to enhance program impact. The coordinator will also lead efforts to document lessons learned and adapt program strategies based on findings.
Qualifications
Applicants should hold a BA/BSc in a relevant field, with at least four years of experience in a middle management role. Familiarity with PSNP programs and USAID-funded initiatives is essential. Candidates must have a solid understanding of market-based livelihoods and proven experience in integrating diverse program activities. Strong organizational, planning, and communication skills are crucial for success in this role.
Proficiency in computer applications such as MS Office is required, alongside flexibility and the ability to work effectively within a multi-sectoral team. A willingness to travel to areas with challenging security conditions is also necessary.
Why Join Mercy Corps?
Joining Mercy Corps provides an opportunity to contribute to transformative change in Ethiopia’s most vulnerable communities. The organization values diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a workplace where employees are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. Mercy Corps also invests in ongoing learning, empowering team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development.
Mercy Corps is committed to upholding the highest ethical standards. Team members are expected to act with integrity and respect local customs, laws, and organizational policies. By joining Mercy Corps, you become part of a global team that prioritizes innovation, collaboration, and measurable impact.
How to Apply
Qualified candidates are encouraged to submit their applications, including a CV and three references, through the Mercy Corps application portal. The deadline for applications is December 31, 2024, at 4:00 PM.
Mercy Corps is an equal-opportunity employer, and applications from women and youth are strongly encouraged. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. For concerns about recruitment practices, please contact Mercy Corps through the provided application link.
Join Mercy Corps and be a part of a transformative journey to empower Ethiopian communities for a more resilient and prosperous future. Submit your application today!