Programme Manager (Libya)

DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and gender equality. Since its founding in 2000, DCAF has contributed to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states, and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sectors through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice, and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.

DCAF’s Foundation Council brings together representatives of over 40 countries. Active all over the world, DCAF is internationally recognized as one of the world’s leading centres of excellence for security sector governance (SSG). DCAF is guided by the principles of human rights-based approach with gender equality at its core, democratic governance, impartiality and national ownership. For more information, visit www.dcaf.ch and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) @DCAF_Geneva.

For our Operations Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Division, we are looking for a highly dedicated and dynamic individual to be our next:

Programme Manager – Libya (80-100 %)

Location: Geneva (with frequent travel to Libya)

Starting date: 01 May 2025 or to be agreed upon

Duration: 2 years, with possibility of extension

The role

Reporting to the Head of the MENA division or her/his designee, the Programme Manager is responsible for overseeing the Libya country portfolio. His/her duties and responsibilities will include, but will certainly not be limited to the following:

• In close coordination with DCAF’s MENA management, lead the conceptual development of the Libya program and manage all projects including design, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, learning, and reporting;
• Supervise all organizational, administrative, and financial aspects of portfolio and program management;
• Contribute to the development, expansion, management and consolidation of DCAF’s national and international networks of contacts in and for Libya;
• Support and identify fundraising initiatives and contribute to donor and multilateral organizations ‘engagement;
• Conduct regular analyses on political developments and conflict dynamics in Libya and provide strategic policy advice to senior management;
• Provide substantive inputs and security sector expertise; develop knowledge tools, background summaries, speaking points, reports, presentations and other documents, as needed;
• Supervise the work of Libya program staff;
• Any other tasks necessary for the efficient implementation of DCAF’s programme in Libya as may be necessary and required by DCAF’s MENA management.

Key Qualifications

• An advanced degree in development, security, international relations, business management, public administration or other relevant area of studies;
• Proven conceptual knowledge and technical expertise in SSG/R, preferably in the MENA and/or Libyan context;
• A minimum of 7 years relevant work experience, preferably in the MENA region and/or in Libya and, of which a minimum of 3 years of work experience in/on the region/country;
• At least 3 years of leadership and project management experience, including the management of multiple grants/budgets, as well as overseeing staff (both operational and support staff) and programs;
• Proven experience in development of concept notes, proposals and budgets;
• Proven experience in the whole project management cycle (from identification to project closure) including MEAL and all budgetary and financial aspects;
• Excellent command of both oral and written English; working knowledge of Arabic (and French) is considered an asset;
• A valid work permit for Switzerland (or Swiss/EU citizenship) at the time of application is a pre-requisite.

Specific Skills

• Leadership – adeptness in working under pressure and autonomously;
• Excellent management skills, including planning and budgeting;
• Strong analytical skills;
• Strong communication and networking skills;
• Excellent organization and planning competencies;
• Cultural sensitivity and a deep understanding of the Libya context;
• Demonstrated ability to solve complex problems;
• Proven track record as a collaborative team player;
• Strong initiative and proactive mindset.

We offer

• a rewarding, dynamic and meaningful work experience
• the chance to be part of a diverse team of collaborative, respectful, hardworking and values-driven people
• the chance to contribute to advance the security of all people through nationally owned, inclusive, and participatory security sector reforms based on international norms and good practices.