Director of Global Program Initiatives at IDE

Expérience

Description About iDE At IDE (International Development Enterprises), we are committed to fostering sustainable development by enabling individuals to create brighter futures through entrepreneurship. With over four decades of experience, we collaborate with governments, private sector stakeholders, financial institutions, and local communities to establish inclusive market systems. Our efforts drive sustainable economic prospects across Africa, Asia, and Central America. Our mission,

• Powering Entrepreneurs to End Poverty

Responsabilités

• , underscores our dedication to fostering market-driven growth rather than fostering reliance. Employing Market Systems Development (MSD) methodologies, we empower locally driven, commercially sustainable solutions that boost incomes, enhance resilience, and yield enduring benefits that transcend donor support. Operating across diverse sectors including agriculture, food systems, climate resilience, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), nutrition, women’s economic empowerment, youth livelihoods, financial inclusion, and enterprise development, IDE leverages technical expertise, innovation, adaptive management strategies, and data-driven decision-making to drive sustainable, systemic change. About iDE Zambia With a track record spanning over twenty years, IDE Zambia has consistently pioneered the application of Market Systems Development methodologies to enhance livelihoods, bolster rural economic resilience, and broaden opportunities for entrepreneurs, smallholder farmers, women, and youth. In collaboration with government agencies, private enterprises, financial institutions, research bodies, and development collaborators, the Country Office implements cutting-edge, market-driven solutions spanning agriculture, food systems, climate resilience, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), enterprise development, and financial inclusion. Financed by a varied portfolio from bilateral and multilateral donors, private foundations, and corporate allies, IDE Zambia is embarking on a dynamic period of expansion. The organization is prioritizing the enhancement of its technical expertise, bolstering institutional capabilities, broadening its funding sources, and amplifying its impact across Zambia’s evolving development sector. Role Purpose The Director of Programs (DoP) serves as IDE Zambia’s senior technical and programmatic authority, playing a pivotal role on the Senior Management Team. Under the oversight of the Country Director, the DoP spearheads strategic leadership across the organization’s entire portfolio, while actively shaping organizational strategy, enhancing operational performance, and driving sustainable long-term growth. As the Country Director’s primary collaborator on program strategy, the Director of Programs (DoP) is responsible for directing the design, execution, quality control, and evaluation of IDE Zambia’s initiatives. This role ensures that all interventions are technically robust, market-oriented, evidence-based, and consistent with IDE’s Market Systems Development methodology. The position oversees the complete program lifecycle—spanning opportunity identification, program design, implementation, adaptive management, knowledge-sharing, reporting, and project closure—while guaranteeing technical excellence, measurable outcomes, and responsible management of donor funds. The Director of Programs is instrumental in driving organizational expansion by collaborating closely with the Country Director to uncover strategic prospects, foster alliances, oversee the creation of technical proposals, and enhance engagement with donors, governmental bodies, private enterprises, and consortium partners. Business development is a joint leadership duty and a fundamental component of the position. The Director of Programs (DoP) plays a pivotal role in enhancing organizational capacity by cultivating high-performing teams, enhancing cross-functional cooperation, driving innovation and continuous improvement, and embedding a culture defined by accountability, inclusivity, and excellence. Performance in this position will be evaluated based on the Director’s impact across technical expertise, strategic leadership, business expansion, talent development, financial responsibility, and the enduring viability of IDE Zambia. Leadership Accountabilities Strategic Leadership & Organizational Performance We seek a dynamic leader to drive organizational excellence through strategic vision and execution. The role requires guiding teams toward achieving ambitious goals, optimizing performance metrics, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Responsibilities include aligning business strategies with operational objectives, analyzing market trends to inform decision-making, and ensuring sustainable growth. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical skills, a track record of leadership in performance management, and the ability to inspire cross-functional collaboration. The Director of Programs, as a key member of the Senior Management Team, collaborates closely with the Country Director to define the strategic vision, drive performance excellence, and ensure the long-term viability of IDE Zambia. This position delivers high-level leadership across the organization, aligning programs, human resources, and operational systems to achieve sustainable impact while cultivating an environment characterized by innovation, accountability, collaboration, and relentless pursuit of improvement. Key Accountabilities Collaborate closely with the Country Director to shape strategic direction and play a key role in advancing the long-term objectives, expansion, and operational resilience of the Country Office. Direct oversight of the formulation and implementation of IDE Zambia’s program strategy is required, with an emphasis on harmonizing organizational objectives, local requirements, and donor specifications. Advocate for the implementation of Market Systems Development methodologies across the entire portfolio while fostering evidence-based, market-driven approaches to programming. Enhance collaboration across Programs, Finance, Operations, MERL, Human Resources, Procurement, Business Development, and Global Technical Teams to ensure cohesive and efficient teamwork. Direct strategic oversight of organizational planning, portfolio assessments, and critical reflections to enhance performance and overall organizational efficiency. Evaluate potential strategic risks and growth opportunities to inform decisions that enhance the organization’s ability to withstand challenges and adapt effectively. Develop and uphold an environment that prioritizes innovation, fosters ongoing learning, promotes ethical leadership, ensures robust safeguarding measures, and drives continuous improvement. Foster the growth of emerging leaders by providing coaching, mentoring, and structured succession planning initiatives. 2. Commitment to Program and Technical Superiority We seek a candidate who demonstrates an unwavering dedication to achieving program and technical excellence. The ideal individual will possess a robust technical skill set, extensive experience in program management, and a proven ability to deliver high-quality solutions. Key responsibilities include leading technical initiatives, optimizing system performance, and ensuring adherence to industry best practices. Additionally, the role requires strong problem-solving abilities, meticulous attention to detail, and the capacity to mentor junior team members. Proficiency in relevant technologies, methodologies, and frameworks is essential, along with the ability to drive innovation and continuous improvement within the organization. The Director of Programs holds overall responsibility for the quality, effectiveness, and impact of IDE Zambia’s program portfolio. This position provides strategic leadership throughout the entire program lifecycle, guaranteeing that initiatives are technically robust, operationally efficient, financially viable, and structured to drive sustainable systems-level change. Key Accountabilities Offer strategic leadership to the design, execution, and ongoing performance evaluation of the program portfolio, ensuring adherence to quality standards. Conduct thorough market diagnostics, value chain analysis, political economy assessments, and systems thinking to inform all interventions. Develop and implement strong theories of change, results frameworks, implementation plans, and adaptive management strategies. Uphold the utmost standards in technical excellence, donor compliance, financial accountability, and measurable outcomes for all programs. Integrate strategic planning by fostering collaboration among technical, financial, operational, procurement, and MERL teams to ensure cohesive alignment and execution. Enhance organizational learning by generating evidence, conducting portfolio reviews, facilitating knowledge sharing, and driving continuous improvement initiatives. Develop technical skills and expertise by providing coaching, mentoring, and quality assurance support. Drive sustainable impact through innovative, scalable, and locally owned market-based solutions. Deliver superior technical outputs, maintain comprehensive reporting standards, and ensure complete donor satisfaction. Business Development & External Engagement Our organization is seeking a motivated Business Development & External Engagement professional to spearhead initiatives aimed at expanding our market presence and fostering strategic partnerships. The ideal candidate will be responsible for identifying new business opportunities, cultivating relationships with key stakeholders, and driving revenue growth through innovative strategies. Key responsibilities include conducting market research, negotiating contracts, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to align business objectives with external opportunities. The successful applicant will possess a proven track record in business development, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment. A bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field is required, along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in a similar role. In collaboration with the Country Director, the Director of Programs spearheads the growth of IDE Zambia’s funding portfolio and strategic partnerships. This position offers technical guidance throughout the business development process while enhancing the organization’s prominence, trustworthiness, and impact within Zambia’s development landscape. Key Accountabilities Spearhead the Country Office’s business development strategy and lead initiatives focused on diversifying funding sources. Strategically identify and pursue funding opportunities that align with the organization’s overarching priorities and objectives. Spearhead the creation and refinement of compelling technical concept notes, proposals, and strategic capture plans to enhance competitive positioning. Develop and nurture strong, mutually beneficial partnerships with donors, governmental bodies, private sector collaborators, research institutions, and consortium affiliates to foster collaboration and advance shared objectives. As the representative for IDE Zambia, you will actively participate in strategic external forums, engage in technical working groups, and facilitate key donor engagements. Position IDE Zambia to establish itself as a leading authority in Market Systems Development and inclusive private sector development. Enhance donor stewardship by delivering exceptional technical services, fostering strong communication, and effectively managing partnerships. Develop and nurture a collaborative environment in which business development is embraced as a collective duty across the entire organization. People & Organizational Leadership We are seeking a dynamic leader with a proven track record in driving organizational success through effective people management and leadership. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in developing high-performing teams, fostering a positive work culture, and implementing strategic HR initiatives. Responsibilities include leading talent acquisition and retention strategies, coaching and mentoring managers, and overseeing performance management processes. Additionally, the role involves aligning workforce capabilities with business objectives, enhancing employee engagement, and driving continuous improvement in organizational practices. The Director of Programs cultivates organizational capacity by cultivating talent, enhancing leadership effectiveness, and nurturing a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing environment. This position is tasked with establishing a workplace that enables individuals to develop their skills, drive innovation, and actively participate in the organization’s success. Key Accountabilities Spearhead the mentorship, guidance, and growth of top-performing cross-functional teams. Enhance leadership capabilities by implementing mentorship programs, succession strategies, and continuous professional growth initiatives. Develop and cultivate an environment characterized by accountability, collaboration, innovation, inclusion, and ongoing professional development. Drive performance management and talent development initiatives forward. Enhance the welfare of staff members while upholding safeguarding standards and fostering ethical leadership practices. Facilitate enhanced cooperation between technical and operational teams to drive alignment and efficiency. Assist in the strategic alignment of workforce planning, streamline recruitment processes, and enhance organizational capacity development to meet evolving business needs. Stewardship, Governance, and Risk Management involve overseeing and ensuring the proper management of organizational resources, compliance with regulatory standards, and the implementation of effective risk mitigation strategies. This role encompasses developing and enforcing governance frameworks, monitoring compliance with policies and procedures, and identifying, assessing, and addressing potential risks to safeguard the organization’s assets and reputation. The position requires a strong understanding of regulatory requirements, excellent analytical skills, and the ability to collaborate with senior leadership to integrate risk management into strategic decision-making processes. The Director of Programs is responsible for overseeing IDE Zambia’s portfolio to uphold stringent standards in financial stewardship, donor compliance, governance, and organizational accountability. In collaboration with Finance, Operations, and the Senior Management Team, this role enhances institutional systems to drive sustainable organizational performance. Key Accountabilities Deliver programs successfully, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgetary constraints, and donor-mandated guidelines. Enhance financial governance by integrating strategic planning, precise forecasting, and comprehensive portfolio management. Facilitate seamless coordination and synergy between technical teams and support functions to enhance overall organizational efficiency and output. Assess and oversee strategic, operational, financial, safeguarding, and reputational risk factors to ensure comprehensive risk management across all areas of responsibility. Facilitate and maintain organizational preparedness for audits, evaluations, donor reviews, and compliance assessments to ensure adherence to established standards and requirements. Enhance governance frameworks, strengthen internal controls, optimize organizational systems, and foster data-driven decision-making processes to drive operational excellence and strategic alignment. Facilitate ongoing organizational growth by systematically incorporating insights derived from monitoring activities, evaluation reports, audit findings, and donor feedback into iterative enhancement processes. As a key member of the Senior Management Team, you will play a vital role in shaping institutional leadership and ensuring the organization’s long-term sustainability. What Success Looks Like The Director of Programs will play a pivotal role in driving organizational success by fostering technical excellence, enhancing performance, and ensuring long-term sustainability for IDE Zambia. This position demands a leader who not only delivers results but also cultivates collaboration and elevates the leadership team to achieve high performance. During the initial 12-month period, the chosen candidate will achieve the following: As a trusted strategic ally to the Country Director, they have consistently demonstrated their value as an integral member of the Senior Management Team. Developed and sustained a robust portfolio of programs characterized by technical proficiency, tangible outcomes, stakeholder trust, and enduring systemic transformation. Enhanced the integration of Market Systems Development methodologies, evidence-based programming, adaptive management practices, and organizational learning strategies across the portfolio. Expanded and cultivated a robust, multifaceted funding pipeline by executing high-impact business development initiatives, forming high-value strategic partnerships, and crafting winning competitive proposals. Forged a high-performing, collaborative, and accountable technical team by implementing targeted coaching, mentoring, succession planning, and leadership development strategies. Enhanced financial oversight, governance frameworks, risk mitigation strategies, and operational systems, thereby positioning the Country Office for durable growth and sustained impact. Requirements The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong background in development leadership, evidenced by a history of successfully executing intricate development initiatives, assembling top-tier teams, enhancing organizational capabilities, and fostering strategic alliances. They will possess a unique blend of technical expertise and business insight, coupled with a collaborative management style and a dedication to driving lasting, systemic improvements. Education A Master’s degree (or higher) in International Development, Agricultural Economics, Economics, Business Administration, Public Policy, Rural Development, Development Studies, Natural Resource Management, Social Sciences, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree combined with relevant professional experience may be considered in place of a Master’s degree. Professional Experience A minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in managing intricate international development programs is required, with a strong preference for candidates with background in Sub-Saharan Africa. Seasoned in directing cross-functional teams and overseeing varied donor-supported initiatives. Experienced professionals should have a strong background in Market Systems Development (MSD) and at least one additional relevant field, including agriculture, food systems, climate resilience, WASH, enterprise development, nutrition, financial inclusion, women’s economic empowerment, or youth livelihoods. Experienced in designing and overseeing evidence-based programs, with a focus on market diagnostics, value chain analysis, political economy analysis, systems thinking, theories of change, results frameworks, and adaptive management approaches. Proven track record in managing the complete program lifecycle, encompassing opportunity evaluation, program design, implementation, monitoring, learning, continuous reporting, and successful close-out. Demonstrated expertise in cultivating business growth, crafting compelling technical proposals, fostering donor relationships, establishing strategic partnerships, and executing capture planning strategies, all of which have culminated in securing substantial funding awards. Accomplished financial leadership with a proven track record in prudent stewardship of resources, meticulous portfolio oversight, rigorous donor compliance adherence, strategic budgeting and forecasting, and robust risk management practices. Proven track record in spearheading organizational transformation, enhancing institutional infrastructure, and cultivating the next generation of leaders. Highly desirable is prior professional experience within Zambia or the broader Southern Africa region. Core Leadership Competencies The ideal candidate will exhibit strong leadership competencies, including the ability to: Strategic Leadership Develops and implements strategic initiatives, converting high-level vision into tangible, quantifiable outcomes. Experiences heightened awareness of potential opportunities on the horizon, skillfully guiding teams and initiatives through periods of transition and multifaceted challenges. Demonstrates strong decision-making skills by exercising sound judgment and making informed, timely choices. Technical & Business Excellence Displays strong technical proficiency and consistently makes decisions grounded in verifiable evidence. Employs systems thinking, fosters innovation, and implements adaptive management strategies to achieve sustainable development objectives. Explores avenues for expansion and plays an integral role in fostering business growth, cultivating strategic alliances, and enhancing collaborative partnerships. People Leadership Constructs, mentors, and fosters high-achieving, diverse teams to drive excellence and inclusivity. Establishes and nurtures an environment characterized by accountability, teamwork, ongoing development, and career advancement. Enables team members to grow and succeed by entrusting them with responsibilities, providing guidance, and developing future leaders through structured planning. Partnership & Influence Develops and maintains strong, collaborative partnerships with governmental bodies, donors, private sector entities, local communities, and development organizations to foster trust and alignment. Represents IDE in a manner that upholds professionalism, credibility, and integrity. Fosters cross-functional and external stakeholder collaboration to drive cohesive teamwork and alignment of objectives. Stewardship & Integrity Exhibits exceptional financial responsibility, unwavering accountability, and prudent allocation of resources. Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to upholding safeguarding principles, fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, maintaining transparency, and demonstrating ethical leadership. Demonstrates an unwavering commitment to fostering sustainable outcomes, enhancing institutional capacity, and driving ongoing advancements. Who You Are As a seasoned leader, you possess a rare blend of technical expertise, forward-thinking strategy, and an authentic commitment to fostering talent and enhancing organizational effectiveness. You possess the ability to engage in high-level discussions about national development policy with governmental stakeholders, collaborate with technical teams to devise cutting-edge market systems interventions, and secure partnerships with donors. Additionally, you are adept at mentoring emerging leaders and making tough organizational decisions when necessary. You excel in team-oriented settings, appreciate varied viewpoints, and understand that innovation flourishes through collaboration and collective responsibility. Demonstrating strong ethical standards, a modest approach, an inquisitive mindset, and perseverance, you foster an environment where all voices are heard while ensuring responsibility for outcomes remains firmly established. You thrive amidst complexity, are driven by meaningful impact, and are dedicated to developing systems that generate sustained value well beyond project completion. You prioritize empowering entrepreneurs, strengthening markets, and investing in local leadership as key drivers to forge sustainable pathways out of poverty. We encourage you to consider joining IDE Zambia to leverage your skills in a dynamic and impactful environment. As a member of our team, you will have the opportunity to contribute to innovative projects that drive sustainable development across rural communities. IDE Zambia focuses on empowering smallholder farmers through market-based solutions, and your expertise will play a crucial role in enhancing our outreach and effectiveness. We value professionals who are passionate about creating lasting social change and are committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of underserved populations. IDE Zambia presents a unique opportunity to contribute to the organization’s impactful work in fostering inclusive market systems and driving private sector-led economic growth, positioning itself as a key player in the country’s development landscape. As Director of Programs, your primary responsibilities will involve overseeing the strategic planning, development, and implementation of all program initiatives. You will play a pivotal role in aligning program objectives with organizational goals, ensuring that each initiative delivers measurable impact. Key duties include managing program budgets, allocating resources efficiently, and monitoring performance metrics to drive continuous improvement. Additionally, you will lead cross-functional teams, foster stakeholder relationships, and report progress to senior leadership. Collaboration with other departments will be essential to integrate programs seamlessly and enhance overall operational effectiveness. Assist in establishing the strategic direction for a distinguished and expanding Country Office. Spearhead a broad and dynamic portfolio of forward-thinking, high-caliber programs that drive meaningful impact. Collaborate with seasoned national and international experts dedicated to continuous learning and teamwork. Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with governmental bodies, donor agencies, private sector entities, research institutions, and entrepreneurial ventures. Drive critical discussions at the national level regarding market systems development, food systems, climate resilience, WASH (water, sanitation, and hygiene), and inclusive economic growth. Cultivate the next generation of leaders and enhance the expertise of one of Zambia’s most seasoned technical teams. Join an organization committed to fostering innovation, evidence-based decision-making, entrepreneurial spirit, inclusivity, integrity, and lifelong learning. Join our expansive global network, dedicated to empowering entrepreneurs as a catalyst for eradicating poverty worldwide. Travel This role is based in Lusaka, Zambia, and involves frequent domestic travel—up to 30% of the time—to oversee program execution, foster partner collaborations, drive business growth, and cultivate key stakeholder relationships. Occasional travel—both within the region and internationally—may be necessary to attend organizational meetings, donor consultations, learning events, conferences, and technical exchanges. Safeguarding IDE is steadfast in its dedication to protecting the communities we serve while upholding stringent ethical standards. Employees at all levels are required to adhere to IDE’s safeguarding policies, defend the rights and dignity of vulnerable groups, and foster a workplace that is secure, courteous, and inclusive. Candidates must successfully complete reference and background checks, as well as meet IDE’s safeguarding and code of conduct standards, before employment can be confirmed. We kindly invite you to spread the word about this opportunity by utilizing the social sharing icons provided below. Your support in sharing this position with your network would be greatly valued.

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