Our vision is for everyone in Lebanon and across the Arab region to be able to access the internet, mobile services, and other networked spaces in order to communicate and express themselves safely and without fear of censorship, surveillance, or repercussion.
Our mission is to advance digital rights in Lebanon and the Arab region through research, campaigns, and advocacy that encourages users to engage critically with digital technologies, media, and networks.
We believe in the transformative power of access to information and self-expression, both online and offline. We assert that these rights are essential to peaceful, dynamic, and prosperous societies.
Job Overview
The Programs Manager at SMEX plays a pivotal role in advancing our vision and mission. Reporting directly to the Deputy Executive Director, you will be responsible for overseeing, planning, implementation and evaluation of different projects that lead into SMEX programs that are instrumental in safeguarding digital rights and promoting online freedom in the WANA region. Your responsibility is to ensure that the projects and programs are executed efficiently, timely, consistently meet or exceed established objectives, and have a substantial and lasting impact within the digital landscape of our region.
Responsibilities
- Lead the efforts towards establishing running programs in accordance with SMEX’s strategic plan.
- Develop and implement strategic working plans for each unit in accordance with overall SMEX’s strategic plan.
- Effectively manage and lead SMEX’s diverse portfolio of projects and programs and oversee the implementation of their different components.
- Ensure the efficient execution of projects according to established framework and work plan.
- Conduct systematic reviews of potential risks and challenges, develop and communicate mitigation strategies, and allocate necessary resources to maintain project quality and compliance.
- Review the quality of the work completed with the project leads on a regular basis to ensure that they meet the projects’ standards.
- Develop and implement a clear strategy to enhance program quality and compliance within project delivery.
- Provide support for financial and operational aspects, including budget management and timely reporting to optimize resource utilization.
- Work on project proposals with the Deputy Director and Project Leads, ensuring alignment with SMEX’s objectives.
- Monitor the progress of the programs and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the successful completion of the projects and achievements of the set targets in coordination with the M&E team.
- Act as the central point of coordination between the M&E unit and project leads, facilitating seamless communication and collaboration to ensure project success.
- Organize regular meetings with relevant Units and Project Leads to provide support and facilitate synergistic work.
- Keep informed of relevant digital developments in the region, particularly those pertaining to digital rights and the safety of digital spaces.
- Lead, mentor, and empower team members, providing ongoing guidance and supporting their professional growth.
- Represent SMEX at various seminars and events, actively networking with stakeholders in the digital rights sphere.
- Foster active and cooperative relationships with key stakeholders, including project partners, implementing agencies, and related institutions.
- Collaborate closely with the Deputy Executive Director and Project Leads to develop, enhance, and strengthen partnerships.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Developmental Studies, Business Administration, Social Work, Public Health, Political Science, or any relevant field (Masters’ Degree preferred).
- Familiarity with SMEX’s core work and a shared commitment to human rights values, including privacy, users’ rights, digital surveillance, data protection, freedom of expression, accessibility, and open culture.
- Proficiency in budget management, resource allocation, and financial reporting with the ability to oversee complex initiatives.
- Proven track record in successfully planning, implementing programs in the NGO sector
- Strong leadership skills, including mentoring, empowering, and guiding a diverse team.
- Effective communication and engagement with various stakeholders, including donors, beneficiaries, partners, and team members.
- Ability to set clear project goals, develop strategies, and create actionable plans that align with SMEX’s mission and objectives.
- Proactive in identifying opportunities for improvement and positive change.
- Strong organizational and time management skills to ensure project deadlines are met.
- Attention to detail and thoroughness in managing programs.
- Efficient allocation of time and resources to meet project deadlines and goals.
Personal characteristics
- Strong passion for upholding human rights values, including privacy, freedom of expression, accessibility, and open culture.
- Exhibits a keen attention to detail and thoroughness in managing programs in the NGO sector
- Demonstrates proactive, innovative, and initiative-taking attributes.
- Active and empathetic listener who values input from all team members.
- Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative team.
- Ability to lead, coach and motivate teams in a dynamic environment.
- Open to continuous learning and improvement, consistently seeking out opportunities for growth and development.
- Possesses the ability to adapt to changing circumstances and remain agile in a dynamic work environment.
- Embraces diversity, inclusivity, and an open-minded approach to work.
- Demonstrates a commitment to fostering a positive and supportive working atmosphere within the organization.
- Exhibits resilience and composure when faced with challenging situations, providing a positive example to the team.
Behavioral Competencies
- Leadership
- Strategic Thinking
- Time Management
- Problem Solving
- Teamwork
- Effective Communication
Additional Information
Duty Station: Beirut, Lebanon
Office Presence: Hybrid/remote
Employment status: Full-time
Reporting Line: Deputy Executive Director
Supervision Line: Project Leads
Salary: $2500-$3000
Application
The applicant should fill in this form.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Applications will be considered on a rolling basis until the position is filled.
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