Chief of Party (COP) - USAID Roshan Shuroaat/Foundational Learning Activity

Chief of Party (COP) – USAID Roshan Shuroaat/Foundational Learning Activity

Asad Hameed

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Topics we cover!
1 Key Responsibilities
2 Qualifications
3 Benefits
4 Applying Guide
5 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Adam Smith International is currently seeking a Chief of Party (COP) for the anticipated five-year USAID-funded project, Roshan Shuroaat/Foundational Learning Activity in Pakistan. This project aims to improve student learning outcomes in key areas such as reading and math, while also preventing school dropouts. The COP will lead the implementation of this transformative education initiative, focusing on enhancing the capacity of local teachers, headteachers, and education administrators to drive better educational results.

As the COP, you will be responsible for the strategic leadership and overall management of this project. You will ensure that the project meets its objectives, delivers high-quality outcomes, and complies with USAID regulations. This position is contingent upon the award of the project, and it is a full-time, on-site role for a five-year duration in Islamabad, Pakistan.

Key Responsibilities

As the Chief of Party (COP), your role will involve the following key responsibilities:

  • Leadership and Strategic Direction: Provide overarching leadership and guidance to the project, ensuring its successful execution. You will align project activities with USAID’s objectives and the project’s goals.
  • Project Implementation: Manage the day-to-day activities of the project, ensuring effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all activities. Oversee technical areas, focusing on foundational learning, improving student outcomes, and preventing school dropouts.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: Develop and maintain strong relationships with USAID, local government partners, private sector stakeholders, and other key players involved in the education sector. Represent the project at key meetings, conferences, and events, acting as the project’s spokesperson.
  • Financial Oversight: Ensure the project adheres to USAID’s financial guidelines. This includes budgeting, forecasting, financial reporting, and ensuring compliance with USAID’s financial regulations.
  • Team Leadership: Manage a diverse team of project staff and consultants. Foster a collaborative, positive work environment that encourages high performance and professional growth.
  • Monitoring & Evaluation: Oversee the project’s monitoring and evaluation (M&E) processes to track progress and impact. Use data-driven insights to guide project adjustments and ensure continued alignment with project goals.
  • Reporting: Prepare and submit comprehensive reports on the project’s progress to USAID and other stakeholders. Ensure that reports are accurate, timely, and reflect the project’s impact and achievements.
  • Risk Management: Identify potential risks to the project’s success and take steps to mitigate those risks. Develop contingency plans where necessary to ensure project continuity and success.

Qualifications

To be considered for the Chief of Party (COP) role, you should possess the following qualifications:

  • Educational Background: A Master’s degree in Education, International Development, Public Policy, or a related field is preferred. A strong academic background is essential for this high-level leadership position.
  • Experience: A minimum of 10 years of experience in managing large, complex development projects, especially in the field of education. Experience with USAID-funded projects is highly desirable.
  • Leadership Skills: Proven ability to lead teams, manage diverse groups of professionals, and engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels, including government agencies, donors, and implementing partners.
  • Technical Expertise: Strong understanding of education systems, especially in foundational learning, student outcomes, and dropout prevention strategies. Knowledge of M&E processes and how to apply data for improved project results is also essential.
  • Financial Management: Solid experience in managing project budgets, financial planning, and reporting, with the ability to adhere to donor regulations and financial standards.
  • Cultural Sensitivity and Adaptability: Experience working in Pakistan or similar development settings is beneficial, with an ability to adapt to local contexts and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.

Benefits

Working as the Chief of Party (COP) for the Roshan Shuroaat/Foundational Learning Activity offers numerous benefits:

  • Leadership Role: Lead a significant, high-impact project that will transform education outcomes for students in Pakistan.
  • Career Growth: Gain international experience in a leadership position within a globally recognized organization, working with USAID and key stakeholders in the education sector.
  • Competitive Compensation: A competitive salary will be offered based on your experience and qualifications.
  • Professional Development: Opportunity to lead and mentor a diverse team of education professionals, while benefiting from ongoing capacity-building opportunities and international networking.
  • Positive Impact: Contribute to the betterment of Pakistan’s education system, improving learning outcomes and reducing dropout rates for students across the country.

Applying Guide

To apply for the Chief of Party (COP) position at Adam Smith International, please follow these steps:

  1. Review the Job Description: Make sure your qualifications and experience align with the position requirements.
  2. Prepare Your Documents: Submit an updated CV and a compelling cover letter outlining why you are an ideal candidate for the role.
  3. Online Application: Visit the Adam Smith International career portal or the relevant job listing platform to submit your application.
  4. Interview Process: If shortlisted, you will be contacted for an interview where you will be asked to demonstrate your leadership capabilities, understanding of educational development, and strategic thinking.
  5. References and Background Checks: Be prepared to provide references and undergo a background check as part of the selection process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. What is the duration of the contract for this position?
    • This position is a five-year contract contingent upon the award of the project.
  2. Is this position based in Islamabad?
    • Yes, this role is on-site in Islamabad, Pakistan.
  3. What kind of leadership experience is required?
    • The ideal candidate should have 10+ years of leadership experience in managing large-scale projects, particularly in the education or development sectors.
  4. Are there opportunities for professional development?
    • Yes, the role offers opportunities for growth through training, mentoring, and exposure to international best practices in project management.
  5. What is the application deadline?
    • As of now, the position is accepting applications until further notice. Ensure your application is submitted as soon as possible.
Asad Hameed
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