Given the magnitude of destruction and threat to stability in the aftermath of this unprecedented disaster in Haiti, the United States Government has made immediate emergency relief and support for the Government of Haiti a priority. OTI was asked to contribute toward the reconstruction and stabilization effort and immediately implement programming in close coordination with the USAID/Haiti Mission.

The initial objectives for the OTI/Haiti program will be:

• To support the Government of Haiti (GOH) by promoting stability and decreasing the chances of unrest;
• Facilitate GOH efforts to restore core government functions.

A grants program is the integral method for accomplishing the objectives and outcomes of HRI-ALK program objectives. Grant mechanisms will be utilized to stimulate the capacity and effectiveness of key government and community leaders, NGOs, and/or private sector entities to provide resources for innovative local activities that will reduce instability, promote economic security, provide appropriate commodities/equipment to vital institutions and community identified objectives. The Program Development Officer will realize HRI strategies with the direct development of project activities through active interface with stakeholders and engagements with key local and national government actors and community interlocutors, and members of the media/communications sector.

OBJECTIVES AND DUTIES:
• Take a lead role in the development of grant-funded activities and draft, edit and submit grant proposals to the DCOP for onward submission to OTI for consideration and approval;
• Collaborate with Sr PDO, DCOP, and other PDOs in the development of grant-funded activities including engagement with stakeholders, development of activity write-ups and budgets for proposed grantee activities, and preparation of activity proposals through the OTI Activities Database;
• Ensure proper negotiation of terms and conditions for grants;
• Measure grantee capacity to implement proposed activities;
• Provide policy guidance and interpretation for grantees regarding grant-making authority and grant management policies, procedures and practices;
• Monitor and assess the impact of program activities, with a focus on how grant portfolios in specific geographic locations contribute to broader program objectives, through frequent visits to the field and interviews with participants and beneficiaries;
• Inputs to and ensures accuracy of HRI-ALK databases, specifically TAMIS and the OTI Activity Database
• Keep abreast of national and regional political, social, economic and humanitarian developments and prepare and deliver written and oral briefings when requested;
• Consult regularly with local and international CSOs, donors and government officials active in regions of focus on development policies, political developments and security and access issues;
• Maintain and continue to build a network of local partners, measuring their capacity for collaboration in activities within the context of program goal and objectives;
• Conduct rapid conflict assessments, in regions determined jointly with the program management, that contribute to the development of strategic approaches for contributing to conflict prevention and response;
• Ensure timely written and oral presentation of conflict assessments to DAI and USAID and participate in regular meetings of the HRI-ALK program team; and
• Other duties as assigned by the SPDO, Deputy Chief of Party, and Chief of Party that are consistent with the overall focus of the assignment.


QUALIFICATIONS:

EDUCATION
• Four year university degree preferred.

WORK EXPERIENCE
• Three to five years of community development or government experience, preferably on USAID-funded projects.
• Understanding of the complexities and challenges of field operations in unstable areas.
• Experience in development programs with knowledge of systems and office administration; direct operational management of grants.
• In addition, must be flexible, willing to perform assigned and additional duties and work irregular hours under potentially hazardous conditions.


SKILLS
• Demonstrated local knowledge of Haitian socio-political and culture issues.
• Previous experience with government collaboration is desirable.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to manage a diverse range of professional relationships essential.

LANGUAGES
• French/Creole language fluency as well as strong written and spoken English are required.

2011-03-21