Programme Manager

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 sector 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 members represent over 50 countries and the Canton of Geneva. Active in over 70 countries, DCAF is internationally recognized as one of the world's leading centres of excellence for security sector governance (SSG) and security sector reform (SSR). DCAF is guided by the principles of neutrality, impartiality, local ownership, inclusive participation, and gender equality. DCAF embraces and promotes values of accountability, excellence, inclusivity, integrity and respect. For more information please visit www.dcaf.ch

DCAF has worked in Lebanon since 2008. Lebanon is part of the DCAF’s foundation council and DCAF is an accredited diplomatic entity in the country.

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 (Lebanon) (100 %)

Location: Beirut, with travel across the country

Starting date: TBD, depending on availability of funding

Duration: One year, renewable (subject to funding and performance)

Eligibility: Lebanese nationals

Note: funding for the position is not confirmed. The position is contingent upon availability of funding.

The role

DCAF is applying for funding to support Lebanese Security Sector and Lebanese Armed Forces in the context of emergency assistance.

The Programme Manager will be responsible for the implementation of the new project provided the funding has been approved.

Key areas of responsibility:

The incumbent will report to the Head of DCAF’s Lebanon Office and will have overall responsibility for the successful implementation of the project and achievement of its objectives. Tasks include (but are not limited to):

• Managing project activities and ensuring they are delivered on time and according to the approved budget
• Jointly with the beneficiary agency and donor, design and implement project governance mechanisms
• Maintaining and developing ongoing communication and coordination with key partners and stakeholders, including Lebanese Armed Forces other security agencies, relevant ministries, universities, CSOs, international community and others
• Building new networks of contacts
• Drafting project concept notes, briefs, terms of reference and other documents
• Drafting and reviewing substantive project documents
• Preparing project-related reports, including regular financial, progress and risk reports
• Supporting organization and conduct of project events including logistics, travel etc.
• Designing and maintaining updated project tracking tools and project workplans
• Managing project budget
• Overseeing procurement and recruitment processes and contracting service providers
• Maintaining and updating project risk register
• Identifying new funding opportunities and providing support in resource mobilization
• Managing project team including staff and consultants/experts, providing on the job guidance and appraisal
• Setting up and maintaining project MEL system
• Other tasks as assigned by the Head of Office

Minimum requirements:

• An advanced university degree in law, human rights, political sciences, international relations, development, security studies, management or related field
• A minimum of 7 years work experience in one or more of the following areas: good governance, governance reforms, human rights, gender, rule of law, security sector reform, preferably in Lebanon or the MENA region
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in managing projects
• Proven experience of working with senior representatives of authorities in politically sensitive environment
• Deep knowledge of the Lebanese context including the governance, legal reforms and human rights, rule of law situation, large network of contacts within these areas will be an advantage
• Proven successful experience in procurement and budget management
• Native Arabic; excellent command of English (written and spoken); a distinct advantage and French an asset
• Strong communication skills and ability to work in an international team
• Cultural sensitivity

We offer:

• a rewarding, dynamic and challenging work experience the chance to be part of a multicultural team of supportive, hardworking and values-driven people
• the chance to contribute to improving security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights

How to apply

If you think you are a good match for DCAF and the position advertised, please apply online by 2nd March 2025 (midnight), enclosing:

• A one-page motivational statement in English, describing your motivation for the position, your relevant experience and what you can bring to DCAF
• A concise CV in English (maximum two pages)

DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.

Individuals who seek to serve with DCAF in any individual capacity will be required, if short-listed, to complete a self-attestation stating that they have not committed or been convicted of any criminal offence and have not been involved, by act or omission, in the commission of any violation of international human rights law or international humanitarian law.