Program Area Manager
Position:
Organization: VIS - Volontariato Internazionale per lo Sviluppo
Not Specified
VOLONTARIATO INTERNAZIONALE PER LO SVILUPPO has been operating in Ethiopia for more than 20 years. In 2005, it was officially recognized by the Ethiopian Ministry of Justice as a qualified organization to operate in the fields of education and water and sanitation. On 10 October 2019, VIS obtained its re-registration certificate from the Charities and Societies Authority in accordance with the Charities and Societies Proclamation No. 1113/2019.
VIS and its partners have been actively engaged in humanitarian and development interventions in the areas of WASH, livelihoods, education, and technical and vocational training across the Tigray Region—particularly in Mekelle, Wukro, Adigrat, Adwa, and Shire.
VIS Ethiopia is seeking a qualified candidate for the position of Program Area Manager – Tigray, based in Mekelle. The Program Area Manager will provide overall strategic, operational, and managerial oversight of VIS programs implemented across the Tigray Region, ensuring quality implementation, compliance with donor requirements, effective coordination, and strong engagement with partners and stakeholders.
Required number: 1
Location: Tigray
Duration: 12 months (renewable, subject to funding and performance)
Salary scale: Basic salary between EUR 1,000 and EUR 1,200, based on experience.
Duties and Responsibilities:
Main responsibilities and specific tasks include, but are not limited to, the following:
Program and Project Management
Ensure that all projects are implemented in accordance with donor agreements, VIS internal procedures, and approved work plans and budgets;
Coordinate the strategic and operational management of multiple ongoing projects in the Tigray Region;
Provide direct supervision, guidance, and support to project teams operating in different locations, fostering teamwork, knowledge sharing, and alignment with common objectives;
Coordinate planning, implementation, and monitoring of project activities, ensuring timely delivery, budget compliance, and achievement of expected results;
Conduct regular monitoring visits in line with VIS standards and donor requirements.
Support capacity building and provide training to local staff to strengthen skills, knowledge sharing, and long-term sustainability of program implementation
Coordination, Partnerships, and Representation
Establish and maintain effective working relationships with local authorities, partners, donors, NGOs (local and international), private sector actors, and relevant government institutions;
Maintain specific professional relationships with companies and key stakeholders operating in the Tigray Region;
Participate in coordination meetings, clusters, and technical forums as required;
Facilitate effective communication between VIS regional offices, the main office, partners, and stakeholders.
Engage in advocacy and maintain networking with international stakeholders to enhance VIS visibility and strategic partnerships in the region.
Reporting and Information Management
Prepare and/or oversee monthly and quarterly narrative and financial reports, in line with donor guidelines and government NGO reporting requirements, in collaboration with the finance department;
Collect regular, detailed progress reports and monitoring updates from project staff and submit them in a timely manner;
Contribute to the revision and updating of program data to ensure accuracy and reliability.
Financial and Administrative Oversight
Manage and monitor project budgets, ensuring expenditures remain within available resources and comply with donor and VIS regulations, in coordination with the Finance Area Manager and the admin department;
Follow up on activity implementation, budget application processes, and coordination with partners;
Verify purchase requests and submit them to the administrative department for approval;
Provide support and advice to partners on project implementation, financial management and procurement processes, in collaboration with the Program Department;
Support logistics and administrative management of the programs.
Security and Team Management
Act as focal point for operational security in the Tigray Region, contributing to the development and regular updating of local security plans;
Organize regular team meetings and follow up on action plans;
Promote a positive working environment, team spirit, and adherence to VIS values and principles.
Contribute to emergency management, contingency planning, and business continuity to ensure program resilience in volatile contexts.
Additional Tasks
Perform any other position-related tasks assigned by the country representative or the program department.
Job Requirements
Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Development Studies, International Cooperation, Social Sciences, Economics, Project Management, or a related field of study
Experience: 5 years of relevant work experience in humanitarian and/or development programs, including both program/area management and field experience in complex or conflict-affected contexts;
Context Experience: Prior experience working in the Tigray Region is a strong asset;
Technical Skills: Strong experience in program coordination, donor compliance, reporting, budgeting, and partnership management; Proficiency in project management and donor reporting software/tools is required
Languages: Fluency in spoken and written English, Tigrigna and Amharic is required;
Other: Previous experience with INGOs and institutional donors (e.g., AICS, EU, UN) is considered an asset; strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills are essential. A proven track record in liaising with donors, government authorities, and other key stakeholders in conflict-affected areas is highly desirable.
How to Apply:
APPLY USING THIS LINK
Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Job Requirements Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Development Studies, International Cooperation, Social Sciences, Economics, Project Management, or a related field of study with relevant work experience in humanitarian and/or development programs, including both program/area management and field experience in complex or conflict-affected contexts; How to Apply Apply using the link provied belowDeadline: Feb 14, 2026, 12:00 AM
Location: , Mekelle, with frequent travel within Tigray Region and possibly Addis Ababa
Amount: 1
