Deputy Director, West Africa Volunteers Development Initiative

Job Title:                   Program Manager

Organization:            West Africa Volunteers Development Initiative (WAVDI)

Location:                    Monrovia, Liberia, West Africa

Position:                     Volunteer/internship

Type of Position:       Onsite

Supervisor:                Executive Director

Start date:                  Immediately or as soon as possible

Contact:                      Email:    application@volunteerliberia.org  

Under this position, West Africa Volunteers Development Initiative (WAVDI) will be responsible for your feeding, accommodation and in country work related transportation and visa fees only.   

OVERVIEW OF West Africa Volunteer Development Initiative (WAVDI)

The West Africa Volunteer Development Initiative (WAVDI) is dedicated to strengthening families and building robust communities across West Africa. Our focus spans key areas including agriculture, education and livelihood, gender and sexual rights, health and nutrition, water and sanitation, capacity-building, and good governance. We work to ensure access to opportunities by advancing research and solutions that tackle barriers to success.

Our approach involves demonstrating effective practices, influencing decision-makers, and promoting evidence-based strategies. As a regional organization, WAVDI is committed to making a positive impact throughout West Africa.

Introduction

When looking to hire for a Volunteer Deputy Director position, the job posting is an essential tool for attracting volunteers/students who are interested integrating classroom knowledge and theory with practical application that will help them to develop workplace skills, but also confidence in the applicability of their existing skills and attributes.  Our mission is to support volunteers, University students or recent graduates into career transitions by holistically preparing students/volunteers for meaningful professional lives while providing them the opportunity to reflect upon their career development objectives.

Rational

West Africa Volunteers Development Initiative (WAVDI) Service Learning and Professional Engagement (SLAPE) program offers unique Work-Integrated Learning (WIL) opportunities for recent graduates, volunteers/students can apply what they're learning or have learned in the real world as they study or after study. This means you can work an organization or a project while you earn academic course credits or non-academic credits.

Limited Practical Experience: One of the foremost challenges interns/volunteers encounter is the gap between classroom knowledge and on-the-job requirements. Many interns lack practical experience, which can hinder their productivity and confidence.  

Job Summary: This position is both technical and administrative.

The Deputy Director position is an important role that supports the Director in executing the strategic vision of the organization. Key responsibilities include managing staff, developing and executing departmental plans, and collaborating with other department leaders to meet organizational goals.

The Deputy Director works closely with the Director to oversee and manage all areas of the organization, including operations, finance, human resources, external relations, resource mobilization and program development as well as guiding WAVDI’s strategic direction.

The Deputy Director is responsible for assisting the Director in the development and implementation of programs and policies, as well as managing daily operations. This position requires some leadership skills and the ability to work collaboratively with department heads and staffs

Responsibilities

o Assist the Director in the development and implementation of programs and policies to achieve organizational goals

o Manage the day-to-day operations of the organization

o Provide guidance and support to department heads and staff

o Develop and implement training programs for staff

o Analyze financial reports and develop budgets

o Ensure compliance with legal requirements and regulations

o Represent the organization to external stakeholders, including funders, government agencies, and community partners

Qualifications

Education

o Recent graduates, University Student/Volunteer  

Experience

o Experience is not a requirement (this program is intended provide and improve applicant with the necessary experience during the work period.   

Skills

o leadership and management skills

o Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

o Ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders

o analytical and problem-solving skills

o Knowledge of budget development and financial management (training will be provided for applicant)

o Ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Key Responsibilities

o Manage departmental staff, providing leadership, guidance, and support

o Collaborate with other department leaders to develop and execute strategic plans

o Identify opportunities for process improvement and efficiency

o Ensure that all department processes align with organizational values and goals

o Provide regular reports to the Director on departmental progress and challenges