Field Ready is a non-governmental organisation that is dedicated to bringing innovation to international disaster relief. Our vision is to meet humanitarian needs by transforming logistics through technology, innovative design and engaging people in new ways. We make possible the local manufacture of useful items to solving problems in various sectors such as health, water, and sanitation. We do this by using the latest technology as well as traditional manufacturing. We pass on these skills to others through training and pioneering innovative approaches to the toughest challenges. The impact of this is dramatically improved efficiency in aid delivery by quickly meeting needs and cutting procurement costs. Our approach is truly effective and ground-breaking. For more information, please visit: www.fieldready.org
Position Summary
Field Ready is leading an exciting 12-month program in response to the coronavirus pandemic. Working with partners on-the-ground, Field Ready will bring its extensive experience in digital and appropriate manufacturing to connect supply and demand, map capabilities and make essential infection control and PPE items for frontline workers, with the aim of reducing the transmission of COVID-19. This program brings together a set of innovative approaches to make an impact in Bangladesh, Iraq, Kenya and Uganda.
This is a multifaceted role and will suit a person who can both effectively manage the day-to-day running of a complex project, while also having the skills and confidence to liaise with new and existing partners, spot opportunities for collaboration and contribute to the strategic direction of the project. This person will also have a solid technical understanding of manufacturing which they will use to support the team and our manufacturing partners locally and to guide the success of the project.
The post holder will report to the Global COVID-19 Response Program Manager. They will have line-management responsibility for the Manufacturing Engineer and Data Specialist who will be based locally.
This is a really exciting opportunity for the right person, who wants to manage a unique approach combining the latest innovations with traditional methods to improve the delivery of aid.
Responsibilities
The following are illustrative responsibilities that are expected to evolve over time and depend on the organisational and programmatic needs. An effective Technical Project Manager will combine relevant technical know-how with excellent interpersonal skills and an ability to ‘get things done’ under challenging conditions.
Their responsibilities will include but are not limited to:
Manage external stakeholder relationships, including liaising with manufacturing stakeholders to build program networks and to promote partnership.
Build relationships with organisations requiring infection control items (such as hospitals, aid organisations, INGOs, government departments and global public health and WASH clusters) to create and manage demand-side partnerships
Take direct responsibility for project needs and targets, working with Global COVID-19 Response Program Manager to create and manage
work-plans and ensure implementation.
Oversee quality control and support Manufacturing Engineer with this function, with the guidance of Field Ready’s global technical team.
Line-manage the Manufacturing Engineer, promoting a supportive and professional working environment.
Take direct responsibility for reporting on project outputs, progress and impact to the Global COVID-19 Response Program Manager, to comply with donor reporting requirements.
Provide technical support and guidance to local team and manufacturing partners on contracting, procurement, supply chain and MEL.
Ensure the highest possible quality and rigour, with high standards of professionalism.
All other duties assigned.
Qualifications
Required competencies:
Project management: the ability to effectively manage technical projects throughout their life cycle, backed up by several years of project management experience.
Technical: possess a solid background in and understanding of manufacturing. Ability in hands-on making, equipment maintenance/troubleshooting, CAD, concept generation, product development & prototyping would be desirable, but a thorough understanding of the manufacturing process is essential.
Line management: the ability to effectively manage a small team of staff, apprentices and volunteers.
Partnerships: the ability to maintain and grow relationships with external partners and share opportunities for the growth of these relationships.
Working with others: the ability to work effectively with others and promote a congenial work environment.
Self-management: the ability to work independently and take initiative to seek out new opportunities and work in a challenging environment.
Humanitarian commitment: an understanding of the principles that govern humanitarian action and commitment to that action.
Required Skills and Experience:
English & Swahili: excellent written and interpersonal communication in English and Swahili.
Manufacturing experience: 5+ years of practical experience of working in the manufacturing, engineering or technical sector.
location: Authority, ability and willingness to travel around Kenya.
Desirable criteria:
Networks: strong connections in the INGO or aid community or the manufacturing sector and ability to use them for the furtherance of Field Ready’s vision.
Humanitarian work: Knowledge of or experience in a humanitarian or development setting. Experience working with vulnerable groups such as people with disabilities. Familiarity managing institutional donor grants (e.g., USAID) is a distinct advantage.
How to Apply
Submit a cover letter that describes your qualifications, reasons for applying and understanding of the requirements outlined above. This letter should be no more than two pages. Please submit this cover letter along with your CV to:
kat.sellers at fieldready.org with the subject line “Technical Project Manager, Kenya”.
