Program Manager – Iran & the Gulf At International Republican Institute

Job Summary:

Every employee of IRI is responsible for carrying out the Mission of IRI and demonstrating the Core Values in their day to day operations. The Core Values, which are IRI’s foundational building blocks include:

Excellence– We believe in quality results delivered by investing in people. Freedom– We believe in exploration and experimentation to be agile and responsive. Respect- We believe in trust, empathy and empowering people. Teamwork- We believe in diversity, inclusion and the power of global collaboration. Transparency– We believe in open communication and clear decision-making. Accountability- We believe in personal responsibility as the foundation of success.

The Program Manager (PM) for Iran and the Gulf is responsible for the oversight and management of a dynamic portfolio of grants from start to finish, including coordinating a cross-functional program team to achieve program objectives. The PM is responsible for (1) fostering an inclusive team oriented work environment that includes fostering the continuous professional development of a program team, (2) setting the strategic direction of a portfolio, including the design of new programs and (3) overseeing all aspects of program implementation, including timely performance, the achievement of program objectives and compliance with funder requirements.

Position Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in political science, international relations or related field. Graduate degree preferred.
• Five to Seven years professional experience in democratic governance and politics, preferably working directly with civil society and a range of non-governmental organizations, including those involved in investigative research and media activities.
• Working knowledge of the politics, economics, history and culture of the region and familiarity with the political context.
• Strong written and oral communication and presentation skills.
• Demonstrated management experience including ability to motivate and manage staff.
• Extensive experience working with USG funded projects and familiarity with USG regulations and processes.
• Demonstrated financial management experience in developing and administering program budgets.
• Ability to prepare, present and negotiate complex and sensitive agreements and/or project proposals with bilateral/multi-lateral agencies and other funder communities.
• Ability to communicate skills and experience to others as a trainer, advisor or technical consultant; sensitivity to working in advisory role with local organizations.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to coordinate and lead the efforts of other professionals to effectively meet program goals.
• Willingness to travel within the region.
• Ability to analyze and report on quantitative and qualitative public opinion research.

Primary Functions & Responsibilities:

• Contributes to the development of a comprehensive Iran and the Gulf strategy and program objectives.
• Monitors, analyzes and reports on political and related developments in Iran and the Gulf.
• Oversees and is responsible for complete grant oversight of a program portfolio (which can consist of several grants), from fulfillment of substantive programmatic objectives to financial and compliance requirements for the life of the grant(s).
• Anticipates prospective operational challenges and offers solutions and actively takes part to lead resolution of them with creative and timely solutions.
• Supervises staff assigned to the portfolio, including participating in the hiring, professional development and evaluation process for these staff. Sets specific goals and provides ongoing performance feedback.
• Establishes, maintains, and develops productive working relationship with relevant stakeholders, consultants, field and DC staff.
• Ensures that grant is completed on time, within budget, and in full compliance with Funder and IRI policies and requirements.
• Maintains an understanding of Funder and IRI policies and procedures related to grant compliance and oversight.
• Fully understands assigned grant’s substantive, financial and compliance requirements.
• Leads kick-off and close-out process.
• Ensures compliance with all procurement policies in the implementation of the grant including all contract paperwork.
• Monitors program team’s grant budgets, spending (budget trackers), and offers guidance and assistance when needed, with Program Services support.
• Travels as needed for program oversight and implementation.
• Performs other duties as assigned.