Country Director

About Silk Road Organization:

Introduction:

Silk Road (SRO) is non-political, non-governmental, and non- profit organization established by a group of Syrian youth who believe in Syria’s future.

Silk Road Vision:

Enhance and develop the role of civil society in all aspects in order to enable it to practice its role in building the future of Syria.

Silk Road Values:

Credibility, honesty, integrity, and feeling of others.

The main purpose:

The anticipated function for the Country Director is to lead the Silk Road Organization (SRO) activities in Iraq. The Country Director will hold the responsibility for overall management of the operation, including projects coordination and oversight, budgeting, staff management, and long-range planning. Forges connections with local, national, and regional partners, with an eye toward future collaboration. Represents SRO and its programs at professional and other meetings in Iraq. The country director is expected to work with SRO staff on planning and implementation of programs. The Country Director is ultimately accountable in Iraq country for all aspects of SRO’s work, leading the integration and at the same time development of the programs, continuing the process of developing solid impact measurement mechanisms, strengthening accountability initiatives and ensuring that the financial management and organizational setup is adapted to the operational context. The Country Director sets direction, leads, maintains team morale, safety and welfare, while managing resources, delegating specific duties as necessary, and maintaining oversight and accountability.

Educational Qualifications and Relevant Experience:

• Bachelors or Master’s degree in Public Administration or relevant works.
• Has experience working in Iraq in particular working in economically/politically fragile conditions and dealing with security issues;
• At least 8 years of relevant experience at strategic level;
• Strong in implementation oversight with proven ability in financial and operational oversight and management;
• Proven track record in project management including familiarity with donor funded project procedures and process;
• Strong business and people management capabilities with a focus on results and entrepreneurial skills;
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills;
• Strong networking and positioning skills at multiple levels;
• Ability to coach, lead, stimulate, and inspire professionals in a development context;
• Culturally aware, tactful and open minded;
• Proficiency in both written and spoken English.

Tasks and Duties:

Leadership:

• Participate with the Board of Directors and senior management in developing a vision and strategic plan to guide the organization.
• Identify, assess, and inform the organizational senior management and the Board of Directors of internal and external issues that affect the organization.
• Foster effective teamwork with the Board and the staff.
• Act as a spokesperson for the organization and its programs.

Programs and Operations:

• Oversee the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the organization’s programs
• Ensure that the programs offered by the organization contribute to the organization’s mission and reflect the priorities of the Board
• Monitor the day-to-day delivery of the programs of the organization to maintain or improve quality
• Oversee the planning, implementation, execution, and evaluation of special projects
• Ensure that the operation of the organization meets the expectations of its clients, Board, and Donors.
• Oversee the efficient and effective day-to-day operation of the organization’s operations in IRAQ.

Finances:

• Oversee all financial aspects of the organization, including the development, and adherence to the annual budget
• Administer the funds of the organization according to the approved budget and monitor the monthly cash flow of the organization
• Provide the Board with comprehensive, regular reports on the revenues and expenditure of the organization
• Work with the Board to secure adequate funding for the operation of the organization via grants, fundraising, and partnerships

Policies Development and Fundraising:

• Review existing policies on an annual basis and recommend changes to the Board as appropriate
• Provide support to the team by preparing meeting agenda and supporting materials
• Research funding sources, oversee the development of fundraising plans, and write funding proposals to increase the revenue of the organization
• Maintain and expand revenue generating and fundraising activities to support existing
• program operations and planned expansions, including fundraising campaigns and donor management activities
• Establish good working relationships and collaborative arrangements with funders, donors, potential donors, and other organizations to help achieve the goals of the organization

Communications:

• Maintain, enhance, and implement internal and external communication strategies
• Communicate with stakeholders to keep them informed of the work of the organization and to identify changes in the community served by the organization
• Use external presence and relationships to garner new opportunities

Human Resources:

• Responsible for hiring, supervising, and evaluating SRO Iraq staff, including interns
• Oversee all management functions, including but not limited to employment contracts, legal issues, and insurance concerns
• Manage and enhance a strong volunteer program to augment the mission of Silk Road- Iraq

Competencies and Values:

• Striving for excellence: Focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process.
• Collaborating: Involve relevant parties and encourage feedback.
• Taking the lead: Take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation.
• Communicating: Listen and speak effectively and honestly.
• Demonstrating integrity: Uphold and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to our values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment