Academy for Educational Development

Chief of Party – Afghan Secure Futures Program

AED is currently recruiting for a Chief of Party (expatriate or third country national) for the three-year, USAID-funded Afghan Secure Futures (ASF) Program. ASF will improve skills training and working conditions for vulnerable Afghan youth. While most poor Afghan youth learn vocational skills through informal apprenticeships in micro and small enterprises (MSEs), the skills building process is hampered by low business volume, insufficient diversity of work, outdated equipment, a lack of safety equipment or techniques, and a lack of flexible working hours. ASF will employ a market development approach to build the business volume of MSEs in the construction sector, improve the learning experience for youth apprentices, and increase youth income in the short term and future employability in the longer term. Program activities will focus on: (i) building the capacity of MSEs in the construction sector by facilitating horizontal linkages between MSEs, encouraging vertical linkages between mid-sized construction firms and MSEs, improving access to business development services and finance, and ensuring that emerging standards for safety and quality are met by targeted MSEs; and (ii) improving MSE working conditions to improve safety and provide youth with increased access to learning opportunities.

The Kabul-based Chief of Party (COP) will serve as the overall project manager and as the primary liaison with USAID’s Mission and AED’s Washington, DC, headquarters. The COP will lead a streamlined team of staff, short-term technical assistants, and partner organizations and will provide technical expertise related to growing the business volume of construction-related MSEs through value chain strengthening initiatives, strengthening MSEs’ capacity to provide youth with positive learning environments, and to improving access to business development services and financing. The COP will oversee all in-country ASF activities and finances; ensure the overall effectiveness of the program and its various components; coordinate program components through strategic consultations with local, national and international partners and key stakeholders; and ensure the thorough and timely monitoring and evaluation of project activities. The expatriate COP position will be one year in duration, with the local Deputy Chief of Party assuming the position for years 2 and 3.

Requirements:

• Minimum 8-10 years experience managing overseas development programs focusing on enterprise development and value chain/market development;
• Technical and managerial experience in value chain strengthening and market driven MSE strengthening programs as well as practical knowledge of monitoring and evaluation methodologies;
• Strong knowledge of USAID regulations and policies;
• Advanced degree in Business Administration, Economic or International Development, Development Management, Agricultural or Development Economics, Project Management, or a related field;
• Demonstrated skills in leadership and supervision, with an ability to develop relationships and a common vision among stakeholders;
•  Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
• Experience working in Afghanistan preferred but not required; and
• Fluency in English required; knowledge of Dari desirable.

To Apply To apply send a cover letter, CV, a USAID 1420/biodata form, and the names and contact details of three references to cit@aed.org. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled, although applicants are encouraged to apply by Wednesday, June 20, 2008. No calls please. We thank all individuals for their interest in AED; however only those selected for interviews will be contacted. AA/EOE/M/F/D/V