Creative Associates International is a fast-growing, social impact company that specializes in the areas of education, economic growth, democratic transitions, and stabilization in post-conflict environments. Based in Chevy Chase, Maryland, this global development organization has a field presence is more than 25 countries and a strong client portfolio of that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department. Since its founding in 1977 by four enterprising women, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike. 

The Civic Engagement Activity aims to foster a more politically engaged citizenry in Iraq, enhancing trust and participation in the country's democratic processes by elevating civic literacy and empowering citizens to actively engage in discussions on issues of concern. This initiative seeks to equip citizens with the knowledge and skills necessary for effective democratic participation, fostering awareness of governmental processes, promoting access to accurate media content, increasing engagement with government entities, and empowering public participation, especially among marginalized groups. The activity emphasizes localization, involving local leadership in design and priority setting, and integrates local capacity strengthening in line with USAID's policy. Sub-grants will identify potential local partners for direct awards, ensuring a collaborative approach that aligns with mission priorities and incorporates Iraqi voices. 

The DCOP is responsible for overseeing all programmatic and technical activities of the project, under the leadership of the COP. The DCOP will work closely with technical staff, partners, and STTA to ensure quality and timely implementation.   

Primary Responsibilities: 

• Lead and supervise the technical design, implementation, and daily management of program components, ensuring effective delivery and results, under the direction of the COP. 

• Support the COP on the development of the project strategic framework and work plans for the program implementation to ensure the achievement of the program goals.  

• Provide a broad range of technical assistance and capacity development to civic actors who seek to work with sub-national government actors and institutions to improve civic engagement 

• Work with local public servants on engaging with constituents and addressing their priorities by providing technical advice and guidance. 

• Facilitate interaction, collaboration, and collective action between diverse stakeholders and leverage stakeholder networks to develop strategies advocating citizen priorities. 

• Engage women, youth, and excluded groups in public and political dialogue and other civic activities. 

• Document implementation successes, challenges, and lessons learned and share them with through regular program reports. 

• Deliver technical presentations on program achievements to implementing partners, civil society organizations, government officials, donors, and other organizations. 

• Oversee budget development and monitoring, ensuring compliance with local, Creative, and USAID policies and regulations.  

• Facilitate relationships with USAID, national and local governments, and key stakeholders. 

• Ensure a shared vision for program activities with technical leads and partners, address implementation challenges, and share best practices. 

• Mentor and supervise implementation staff, oversee staff capacity building, and provide workforce management. 

• Serve as part of the senior leadership team of the project and work closely with other project leadership staff across finance, operations, MEL, etc. 

• Serve as Acting Chief of Party as needed, supporting representational duties and liaising with USAID. 

• Master’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., social science, public administration, or related field) and 8 years of relevant experience in similar governance programs; or a bachelor’s degree and 10 years of experience.  

•  Experience implementing and leading technical activities in relevant fields such as civic engagement and education, citizen participation, women’s political participation, information integrity, for donor-funded programs, with USAID experience preferred. 

• Minimum 5 years of supervisory experience, including managing diverse teams and supporting staff development. 

• Experience with activity design, development, implementation, MEL, and adaptation.  

• Strong understanding of USAID rules and regulations. 

• Exceptional organizational skills and ability to multitask under pressure. 

• Experience working with host country governments, local stakeholders, and civil society. 

• Fluency in Arabic and proficiency in English required.