The Resource Development Foundation (RDF) is deeply committed to advancing gender equity as a fundamental pillar of its mission. Recognising that the empowerment of women is pivotal in driving socio-economic progress, RDF actively integrates gender-focused initiatives across its diverse programmes. By providing women with access to education, technical skills, and micro-credit support, RDF seeks to dismantle barriers that have historically limited their opportunities. The foundation advocates for women's rights, aiming to amplify their voices and ensure their participation in decision-making processes that affect their communities. Through targeted efforts in resilience to climate change and economic empowerment, RDF envisions a more inclusive society where women and children not only contribute to but also share equally in the benefits of development. In fostering intersectional inclusivity, RDF's initiatives underscore the importance of addressing gender disparities to catalyse lasting change across both rural and urban settings.

The Resource Development Foundation (RDF) has formed a strong consortium to participate in the upcoming USAID-funded Communities for Gender Equality (CGE) Activity. This consortium aims to employ a locally-led, evidence-based strategy to advance gender equality within communities. Central to its mission is the enhancement of national NGOs' capacity, enabling these organisations to handle substantial funding more efficiently. By empowering local entities, the consortium seeks to build a sustainable infrastructure that supports gender equality initiatives at a grassroots level, ensuring these efforts are well-informed and applicable to the specific cultural and societal contexts they serve.

The Role

As a leader in this initiative, you will play a crucial role in bolstering local NGOs’ capabilities in securing and managing large-scale institutional funding. By providing training and support, you will help these organisations develop the skills needed to effectively administer such resources, fostering an environment where innovative gender equality projects can thrive. Your guidance will be instrumental in navigating the complex funding landscape, ensuring that local NGOs are well-positioned to contribute meaningfully to the overarching goals of the RDF consortium.

In your capacity as the Chief of Party (CoP) for the USAID Bangladesh-funded Communities for Gender Equality (CGE) Activity, you will be at the helm of a dedicated team endeavouring to implement a substantial $16 million project. This initiative is focused on strengthening community advocacy against violence and improving preventative measures for at-risk populations and survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). Your responsibilities will also include enhancing the capabilities of both public and private service institutions to protect and provide effective responses to GBV survivors and those most vulnerable to such violence. By overseeing these efforts, you will contribute significantly to fostering safer, more equitable communities that prioritise the well-being of all individuals.

You will be responsible for the exciting USAID Bangladesh-funded communities for Gender Equality (CGE) Activity. You will lead the team in implementing an anticipated $16M USAID-funded project to improve community advocacy against and prevention of violence for at-risk people and gender-based violence (GBV) survivors and increase the ability of public and private service institutions to protect and respond to GBV survivors as well as those most at-risk of GBV.

You will oversee all aspects of this project, leading strategic planning and decision-making, providing technical guidance, overseeing activities of the sub-recipients, and supervising staff. Serving as the key liaison with USAID, Ministries, implementing partners and other stakeholders, you will also establish and maintain an integrated vision among different actors while ensuring adherence to all project objectives, performance and reporting requirements, and donor regulations. You will oversee the coordination of field operations and ensure that activities meet USAID and RDF standards.

This position is contingent upon the award of the project by the donor.

Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a comprehensive project strategy: Align the CGE Activity with USAID's strategic objectives and the broader context of gender equality and GBV in Bangladesh.
• Lead strategic planning and decision-making: Ensure that project decisions are informed by evidence, best practices, and stakeholder input.
• Foster a culture of innovation: Encourage a team environment that is open to new ideas and approaches to addressing the challenges of GBV.

Team Management

• Build and lead a high-performing team: Recruit, develop, and motivate a diverse and skilled team capable of delivering project outcomes.
• Create a supportive and inclusive work environment: Promote a culture of respect, collaboration, and gender equality within the team.
• Delegate effectively and provide mentorship: Empower team members to take ownership of their work and develop their skills.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders: Develop trust and cooperation with government officials, civil society organizations, private sector partners, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Represent the CGE Activity at high-level meetings and conferences: Advocate for the project's goals and build partnerships with key actors in the field of gender equality and GBV.
• Facilitate effective coordination and collaboration: Ensure that project activities are aligned with the broader efforts of USAID and other partners in Bangladesh.

Technical Guidance

• Provide technical expertise on gender equality, social inclusion, and GBV: Stay up-to-date on the latest research and best practices in these areas.
• Ensure that project activities are evidence-based and aligned with best practices: Incorporate lessons learned from previous projects and adapt approaches as needed.
• Foster a culture of learning and innovation: Encourage continuous improvement and experimentation within the project team.

Financial Management

• Develop and manage a detailed project budget: Ensure that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to achieve project objectives.
• Monitor expenditures and ensure compliance with USAID regulations: Maintain accurate financial records and adhere to all donor reporting requirements.
• Advocate for adequate funding and resources: Work with USAID and other stakeholders to secure the necessary funding for project implementation.

Performance Monitoring and Evaluation

• Develop and implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework: Track project progress and assess the impact of project activities on the lives of women and girls.
• Collect and analyze data to inform decision-making: Use data to identify areas for improvement and adjust project strategies as needed.
• Prepare and submit high-quality reports to USAID and other stakeholders: Communicate project progress and achievements effectively.

Quality Assurance

• Establish and implement quality assurance standards: Ensure that project activities meet the highest standards of quality and effectiveness.
• Conduct regular reviews and audits: Identify areas for improvement and take corrective action as needed.
• Promote a culture of continuous improvement: Encourage team members to identify and implement innovative solutions to challenges.

Qualifications

• Education: Minimum Master's degree in gender studies, international relations, human rights, political science, sociology, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • 8-12 years of experience in large-scale project cycle management.
  • 6-8 years of experience in senior management or leadership positions in international development organizations.
  • Experience in USAID-funded project management, particularly in gender programming, GBV prevention, and women's empowerment.
• Skills:
  • Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, expenditure tracking, and reporting.
  • Proven ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
  • Strong understanding of gender equality and GBV issues.
  • Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including local NGOs, government officials, and donor representatives.

Additional Requirements

• Commitment to gender equality: A strong commitment to promoting gender equality and addressing gender-based violence.
• Cultural sensitivity: Understanding and appreciation of different cultures and perspectives.
• Fluency in English: Excellent written and spoken English.
• Flexibility and adaptability: Ability to work in a dynamic and challenging environment.

Job contract: The contract would be for 5 years.

Salary: An attractive salary will be offered to the qualified candidate as per the practice of the international expatriate salary structure.

What we’re looking for

Experienced Value-Based Leader: Candidates should possess 8 to 12 years of professional experience in a relevant field, ideally with a minimum of 6-8 years in a senior leadership role such as Chief of Party, Deputy Chief of Party, or an equivalent position. The role demands a profound understanding of leadership within international development organisations. Special consideration will be given to applicants with direct experience in leading USAID projects. This position requires a strategic thinker who can drive projects forward while effectively managing teams and resources in a diverse and challenging environment.

Technical expertise: Proven experience in gender equality, social inclusion, or countering trafficking programs, GBV prevention and/or response programs

Inclusivity Champion: Commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace and practising feminist principles in leadership.

Financial Acumen: Minimum 5 years of experience in managing GBV and/or human rights programs between 8-15 million USD in developing countries and preferably in the South Asia region.

Collaborative Partner: Ability to work effectively with internal and external partners, and consortium partners and build strong networks for program success.

Only short-listed candidates shall be contacted.

A range of pre-employment checks will be undertaken in conformity with RDF’s Safeguarding Policy. RDF will request information from applicants’ previous employers about any findings of sexual exploitation, sexual abuse and/or sexual harassment during employment, or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By applying, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

Please note that RDF will never ask for any fees through mobile banking or send unsolicited emails requesting payment from candidates.

We offer competitive salaries and foster a female-friendly workplace, where you will find outstanding colleagues who are respectful, professional, unbiased, and easy to collaborate with. Our commitment to equal opportunity ensures that everyone has equal access to promotions, leadership roles, and incentive programmes.

RDF adheres to an equal opportunity policy and actively advocates for diversity. We warmly welcome applications from all individuals, particularly women and people living with disabilities. We maintain flexibility in our experience and skill requirements to accommodate people from gender-diverse communities.

How to apply:

For further details, please refer to the attached JD. The deadline for online applications is 31 October 2024. Please send your detailed CV with a cover letter to grants@rdfbd.org. The Resource Development Foundation (RDF) is dedicated to ending gender inequality and achieving a gender-balanced workforce. Equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to our core values.