Head of Programs (NGO Background)

About the role

CIS College is looking for an experienced, results-driven Head of Programs with a strong background in NGOs, donor-funded projects and program management. The role leads the planning, development, implementation and evaluation of programs focused on capacity building, vocational training, employability, entrepreneurship and community development. It calls for strong leadership, project management and stakeholder engagement skills.

Key responsibilities

• Lead and supervise the Programs Department, develop annual work plans, strategies, budgets and schedules, and oversee multiple programs and projects to meet targets and donor requirements.
• Manage projects funded by international and local donors, NGOs and development organizations, coordinating with donors, implementing partners and stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with grant agreements, budgets and reporting.
• Contribute to proposals, concept notes, project design and funding applications, and monitor implementation for accountability and transparency.
• Build partnerships with NGOs, international organizations, donors, public institutions and private-sector partners, and represent the college in coordination meetings and networking events.
• Set up monitoring and evaluation systems, define and track KPIs, prepare narrative and progress reports, and recommend corrective actions.
• Monitor project budgets and expenditures, supervise team members, assign responsibilities, evaluate performance, and coordinate training sessions, workshops and capacity-building activities.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Project Management, Development Studies, Social Sciences, Education or a related field; a Master's degree is an asset.
• At least 7 years of relevant experience in NGO program management, project management or development projects.
• Proven experience managing donor-funded projects and coordinating with funding agencies and implementing partners.
• Experience in proposal development, grant management, budgeting and donor reporting.
• Familiarity with the NGO and development sector in Lebanon.
• Fluency in Arabic and English; French is an asset.

Required skills

• Program and project leadership, strategic planning and implementation.
• Donor relations and grant management, MEAL (monitoring, evaluation, accountability and learning).
• Budget control and compliance, team leadership and performance management.
• Strong leadership, communication, negotiation, organizational, analytical and problem-solving abilities.