Project Manager

TERMS OF REFERENCE (TOR)

Position Title: Project Manager

Project:   SWLA Project in Partnership with ISF

Duty Station: Hargeisa with frequently travelling to the Togdheer Region (Buro)

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Duration: Four Years  

Reports To: SWLA Program Manager / Executive Director (ED)

1. Background

The SWLA Project, implemented in partnership with ISF, aims to promote gender equality, strengthen women's rights, and advance gender-responsive laws and policies. The Project Manager will lead the planning, implementation of project activities and ensure effective coordination with partners, stakeholders, and beneficiaries throughout the project cycle.

2. Purpose of the Position

The Project Manager is responsible for the overall management and implementation of the SWLA Project, including planning, execution, monitoring, reporting, and project phase-out. The position requires close collaboration with partners, regular travel to project sites, and active participation in coordination meetings and working groups

The Project Manager shall be employed and accountable to SWLA and will report directly to the SWLA Program Manager/Executive Director (ED). The position will work closely with ISF as the key project partner, ensuring effective coordination, communication, and collaboration throughout the project cycle. The Project Manager shall facilitate timely sharing of project information, participate in regular coordination meetings with ISF, and ensure that project activities implemented in accordance with the partnership agreement, donor requirements, and approved work plans.

3. Key Responsibilities Project Planning and Implementation

•       Lead the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all project activities.

•       Develop annual work plans, budgets, and implementation schedules.

•       Ensure project activities will be implement according to approved plans, donor requirements, and organizational policies.

•       Coordinate project phase-out activities and ensure sustainability of project outcomes.

Monitoring, Reporting, and Documentation

•       Prepare periodic narrative and financial reports for SWLA management and ISF.

•       Monitor project progress against targets and indicators.

•       Document lessons learned, best practices, and success stories.

•       Ensure timely and accurate reporting on project achievements and challenges.

Coordination and Partnership Management

Ø  Maintain effective relationships with project partners, government institutions, civil society organizations, and community stakeholders.

Ø  Participate actively in coordination meetings, technical working groups, and relevant forums.

Ø  Facilitate communication and collaboration among project stakeholders.

Ø  Represent SWLA in meetings and external engagements related to the project.

Advocacy and Policy Development

v  Develop and implement advocacy strategies aimed at promoting gender-responsive laws and policies.

v  Support initiatives that advance women's rights and gender equality.

v  Engage with policymakers and relevant institutions to influence legal and policy reforms.

v  Produce advocacy materials and policy briefs as required.

Field Visits and Supervision

•       Conduct regular travel to project sites to monitor activities and provide technical support.

•       Supervise project staff and consultants as assigned.

•       Ensure quality assurance and compliance with project standards during implementation.

4. Qualifications and Experience

Ø  Master's degree in Project Management, Gender Studies, Law, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field.

Ø  At least 5 years of progressively responsible experience in project management, preferably in gender, women's rights, or governance programs.

Ø  Demonstrated experience in advocacy, policy engagement, and stakeholder coordination.

Ø  Strong knowledge of project cycle management, monitoring and evaluation, and donor reporting requirements.

Ø  Excellent communication, report writing, and interpersonal skills.

Ø  Ability to travel frequently to project sites.

5. Required Competencies

ü  Leadership and team management skills.

ü  Strategic planning and organizational abilities.

ü  Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

ü  Ability to work independently and under pressure.

ü  Excellent negotiation and relationship management skills.

ü  Commitment to gender equality, human rights, and women's empowerment.

6. Duration and Conditions

The position is a full-time permanent position with a duration of four (4) years, subject to organizational policies and satisfactory performance.

A three-month probation period shall apply from the commencement date of employment. During this period, the employee's performance, leadership ability, technical competencies, and overall suitability to effectively manage and lead the project will be assess Confirmation of employment beyond the probation period shall be subject to satisfactory performance and approval by SWLA management.

7. Duty Station

The Project Manager will be based at the SWLA Head office Hargeisa and will undertake frequent travel to project sites and partner locations as required.