Country Representive Sri Lanka (F/M/D) - 100%
Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner.
Per February 2025 or upon agreement we are looking for a: Country Representive (Cr) Sri Lanka (F/M/D) - 100% Based In Colombo - With Travels To The Field (Local Contract)
Sri Lanka has a long-standing country programme implemented by a qualified and enthusiastic team. Helvetas started its activities in Sri Lanka since over 30 years ago and is currently active in several parts of the country to promote sustainable and inclusive development, safe and informed migration, social cohesion, and economic progress. The team is working in close collaboration with civil society organisations, the private sector, and the government. Helvetas focuses on locally-led development, working jointly with local and national partners. To support social cohesion and inclusive economic growth, the team engages with multiple actors from the grass roots up to government ministries to jointly advance on migration, social cohesion, and supporting youth entrepreneurship. Helvetas has many years of experience working on these issues and has had a special focus on supporting the inclusion and mobilisation of youth beyond ethnic and religious boundaries. Safe migration has been promoted through a right-based approach working with potential migrants and government institutions. The team also has experience with humanitarian and development nexus interventions.
MAIN TASKS
The Country Representative ensures that the country programme operates efficiently and effectively in the country of assignment in alignment with the overall vision, mission, policies, regulations and strategies of the organization. The Country Representative steers and is responsible for the implementation of the country programme in partnership with the government, civil society and the private sector. The CR ensures operational and financial planning and oversight of the programme and projects - development and humanitarian aid - in compliance with the organizational strategies and regulations. The CR promotes a positive and inclusive working culture that supports and empowers all employees so that they can develop their full potential, grow, and achieve job satisfaction. The Country Representative builds and strengthens the network and relationships with central and local government, strategic donors and non-governmental development partners and represents the organization to all stakeholders and networks. Your proactive engagement in acquisitions ensures a sound project portfolio and safeguards a solid financial basis for Helvetas Sri Lanka. Together with its team the Country Representative contributes to regional and international learning and sharing.
YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
- Academic degree (MSc or equivalent) in Natural or Social Science, Economy or in a similar domain
- At least 10 years’ professional experience in development cooperation or humanitarian response with at least 5-6 years’ experience in a senior management position in an INGO/NGO.
- Experience in another country in South or Southeast Asia would be an asset.
- Sound knowledge and experience in strategic planning, project cycle, and financial management,
- Proven experience in leading strategic planning, budgeting processes, and compliance mechanism
- Track record in successful acquisition of projects and mandates.
- A track record in networking and policy dialogue with government and other external stakeholders.
- Ability to analyse budgets for compliance with donor budget guidelines, as well as handling government reporting and bureaucratic approval processes.
- Highly skilled in communication and foster teamwork, cooperation, and knowledge sharing.
- Strong networker and motivator with conceptual, intercultural, and visionary competencies.
- Fluency in English, including excellent writing skills. Any other working language of Helvetas (German, French, Spanish, etc.) is a plus.
- Reflective person, good listener, and excellent intercultural sensitivity.
- Ability to manage situations of stress and care for a healthy work-life balance.
OUR OFFER
Helvetas offers you an interesting challenge in a motivated team with attractive working conditions.
We offer a local contract for this position. We look forward to receiving your complete application, including your motivation letter and curriculum vitae, with three referees on or before January 20, 2025. Please send your application via our online application platform.
If you have any question regarding the position, please don’t hesitate to visit our website www.helvetas.org, or contact Mr. Kamlesh Vyas, at Kamlesh.Vyas@helvetas.org.
Please indicate the position you are applying for in the subject line of the E-mail.