Program Manager Ukraine

APOPO, an international organization dedicated to humanitarian mine action and animal scent detection technology, is seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to join our team as a Program Manager in Ukraine. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the establishment of APOPO’s Mine Action program in Ukraine and make a significant impact on the lives of communities affected by landmines and explosive remnants of war during the ongoing conflict.

As a Program Manager, your main role will be to manage and develop APOPO’s operations in Ukraine, with a strong focus on safety, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with internal and external standards, policies, and guidelines.

APOPO plans to implement a Mine Action Program in East Ukraine, focusing on the reduction of suspected hazardous areas. The activities will be predominantly led by TSD teams with track & trace systems, accompanied by manual and mechanical assets. APOPO plans to conduct its own operations and also work in collaboration with international and national operators where required. APOPO is currently going through registration and recruiting national staff to be trained abroad during autumn 2023.

Main Responsibilities:

1. Manage the establishment process of APOPO’s program in Ukraine.
2. Plan, manage, monitor, and develop APOPO’s Mine Clearance operations in Ukraine, prioritizing safety, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with APOPO’s Internal SOPs, NMAS, and IMAS guidelines.
3. Ensure project activities are in line with the APOPO and program goals and uphold APOPO’s organizational values.
4. Prepare comprehensive reports on program activities, ensuring accurate and timely documentation.
5. Manage the deployment of APOPO’s animal detection systems (ADS) in Ukraine.
6. Manage and oversee survey and clearance operations, and conduct checks and assessments regularly.
7. Assume the ultimate responsibility for project expenditures and fiscal control, asset, and security management.
8. Manage and provide capacity development of APOPO’s local and international program staff in Ukraine.
9. Lead and enhance partnerships with national and international organizations while driving the expansion of APOPO’s mine action activities in Ukraine, in close collaboration with the Head of Programs.
10. Regular exchange of information with the line manager, programs support unit, and headquarters.
11. Regular exchange of information with the fundraising and grant management team, providing technical reference to proposals and engagements.

We’re looking for the following experience, qualifications, and skills:

• An advanced university degree in a relevant field is desired.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience working in the MA sector.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in leading a MA program, with proven ability to lead and manage multidisciplinary and multicultural teams in EORE, NTS, TS, and Clearance Operations.
• Experience in monitoring and evaluation, risk assessment and mitigation, and contract compliance.
• Strong understanding of mine action principles and methodologies, including knowledge of International Mine Action Standards (IMAS), familiarity with national standards, and accreditation processes.
• Proven expertise in program design, development of new activities, networking and contract negotiations, and experience in developing successful relationships with donors, government bodies, and local and international NGOs.
• Fluent in English and strong writing skills to be able to write strategy, work plans, reports, budgets, and proposals.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to engage with government officials, donors, partners, and stakeholders and establish internal and external working relationships.
• Familiarity with the broader humanitarian and development sector is an advantage.

About APOPO

APOPO is a non-profit organization with decades of experience and expertise in the practical application of animal detection systems for landmines and explosives. In addition to its mine detection rats, in 2017 APOPO has invested in a specialized Mine Detection Dog training program that deploys dogs for unique technical survey roles. This multi-faceted capacity has made APOPO an industry leader in researching, training and deploying animals for clearance of landmines and unexploded ordnance. APOPO currently has the largest number of working animals in the Mine Action sector, operating in 8 countries across Africa and Asia. APOPO plans to establish its 9th program in Ukraine in 2023 and become operational in 2024.

APOPO is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, ancestry, national origin, age, gender identity, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, physical or mental disability, military/veteran status, or citizenship status.