Background: 

Creative Associates International is a dynamic, fast-growing global development firm that specializes in education, economic growth, democratic institutions, and stabilization. Based in Washington, D.C., Creative has a field presence in more than 15 countries with a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development and the State Department, among others. Since its founding in 1977, Creative has earned a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded by competitors and partners alike.   

Project Description 

Creative Associates International, Inc. is seeking a Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) for the Protective Education for Girls in Mali Activity. The Protective Education for Girls in Mali Activity aims to address the multifaceted barriers faced by vulnerable learners, especially girls, in Mali by focusing on improving access to quality education, enhancing teacher capacity, and providing targeted support for girls. By implementing a comprehensive approach that includes accelerated learning centers, teachers’ professional development, and community-driven support, the program seeks to achieve significant improvements in educational outcomes and ensure that primary school-aged children, particularly girls, complete their education with the necessary skills and competencies. 

Position Description 

The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) will work closely with and report to the Chief of Party (COP) to provide oversight for the Activity. They will supply overall day-to-day management and coordination of project personnel and functions, including ensuring that reporting requirements are met. The DCOP should be familiar with the components of the project and the required support services. The candidate must have strong leadership qualities and be able to manage project expectations. 

Responsibilities: 

• Serving as a member of the senior leadership team of the program and supporting the Chief of Party in oversight of project staff and activities. 

• Serving as the secondary point of contact for USAID/Mali and other USAID programs operating in Mali, as well as with the Government of Mali officials and key partners. 

• Co-leading and/or reviewing and monitoring programmatic functions, i.e., development of work plans, budgets, quarterly/annual reports, and ensuring effective implementation of program strategy as articulated in the work plan. 

• Provide technical direction and oversight in the design, implementation, and monitoring of work plans and budgets. 

• Support technical strategies and activities at the national, regional, and local levels, including conceptualizing new activities related to emerging trends and initiatives. 

• Supervise, either directly or indirectly, staff to carry out activities in the technical portfolio; in doing so, ensure activities are on track, and are delivered on schedule and on budget. 

• Ensure adherence to USAID, project, corporate, and in-country policies and procedures governing all technical work. 

• Oversee and participate in the preparation of necessary technical and program-related reports, including presentations, peer-reviewed publications presenting innovation on education policy and systems, and white papers. 

• Guide and support training and capacity development efforts in support of project activities and deliverables. 

• Organize, as needed, project/program training, conferences, workshops, and meetings. 

• Other project-related tasks as required by the COP. 

Qualifications: 

• Demonstrated senior-level leadership (e.g., Project Director, Deputy Director) to programs of similar magnitude and complexity is preferred. 

• Demonstrated progressive experience working on education in crisis and conflict projects, including accelerated learning programming, equitable access to education, safe learning environments, teacher wellbeing and support, gender equity and social inclusion, and community and private sector engagement for education, among others. Malian experience is preferred. 

• Demonstrated knowledge and experience of international standards and principles related to safeguarding and prevention of gender-based violence. 

• Demonstrated experience working with senior-level representatives of Ministries of Education, international organizations, U.S. Government Agencies, other bilateral donors, civil society organizations, and private sector organizations. 

• Demonstrated ability to organize and effectively and efficiently navigate the rules and regulations of U.S. Government awards. 

• Full professional proficiency in English and French, with excellent oral and written communication skills. 

• Experience working in the Central Sahel region preferred. 

• Experience with USAID (highly desirable) and other donors (e.g., GPE, World Bank, DFID, etc.). 

• Strong analytical and computer skills (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, web-based research). 

• Ability to multi-task and keep track of concurrent activities and deadlines. 

Only finalists will be contacted. No phone calls, please. 

Creative Associates International Inc. is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer (gender/race/disability/veteran) and provides equal opportunity to all individuals regardless of their race, color, creed, religion, gender, age, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state, federal, or local law.