Project Management

• Create a communication strategy for the project and coordinate with the communications lead to ensure the timely publication of the SoLAR Newsletter.
• Develop a project management and activity plan, verify the data management requirements of the project in consultation with the RPL (Regional Project Leader) and the SoLAR team.
• Ensure timely follow-up and monitor the progress of project outputs.
• Assist with donor contracts and specific project management activities.
   

Project Progress Monitoring

• Prepare and monitor the progress of all project activities, work plans, budgets, and schedules with the RPL.
• Convene and organize regular meetings and forums of the SoLAR team to discuss project progress.
• Address project issues and escalate complex issues to appropriate levels.
• Plan and facilitate periodic weekly/monthly progress/update meetings with project staff and implementation partners.
• Monitor and coordinate with project partners and Innovation Fund (IF) grantees to ensure the timely and quality delivery of agreed outputs.
• Support, operationalize, and facilitate stakeholder engagement with the project administration assistant, including associated workshops and other project events.
• Support the project communication team for the timely dissemination of project activities and outputs to policymakers and the broader public.
• Prepare project progress reports and statuses and assist the RPL in regular communications with the donor.
   

Project Administration, Finance, and Procurement

• Support in the preparation of project technical and financial reports in coordination with the SoLAR RPL and the Administration and Finance team.
• In coordination with relevant IWMI units, support all financial, operational, logistical, procurement, and accounting processes for the project.
• Collaborate with the Project Management Office and Corporate Services Division to ensure compliance with IWMI's anti-corruption and due diligence processes.
• Keep track of key deliverables, payments, and contracts, including consultancies and service contracts.
• Create a RISK register and develop a mitigation plan in conjunction with the RPL.
• Complete a Project plan/Gantt chart and detailed activity plans.
• Assist the RPL in completing project closure, including full budget utilization, the fulfillment of deliverables, clearing partner expenditure/commitments, and preparing the IPCR (Implementation Completion and Results) report.

• Solid program management skills and a demonstrated ability to liaise with multiple stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Package (MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Excellent oral and written language skills in English, including effective listening and strong verbal and written communication abilities.
• Strong multitasking and organizational abilities
• Demonstrated service approach, personal organizational, and priority-setting skills.
• Knowledge of working in water, climate change, or development issues will be an advantage.