Job Description

Chief Executive Officer

About MCA Zambia II

The Millennium Challenge Account (MCA) in Zambia, collaborating with the Government of the Republic of Zambia and the Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC) of the Government of the United States of America, delivers projects under the $491.75 million Farm to Market Compact (Compact) that promotes agriculture and agro-processing in the country through the implementation of the Roads and Access Project, Asset Finance Project, Agriculture Policy Reform and Institutional Strengthening (Ag PIR) Project, and American Catalyst Facility for Development (ACFD) Project. More information on the Compact can be found in the following link: https://www.mcc.gov/where-we-work/program/zambia-farm-to-market-compact/.

The MCA Zambia II offices are in Lusaka, Zambia.

Chief Executive Officer

Position Objective

The Office of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) provides direction and oversight of the activities across the whole of the MCA-Zambia II, collaborates with the MCA Board of Directors and MCC in setting direction and policy, and provides top-level representation of the MCA-Zambia II to government counterparts and stakeholders.

The Chief Executive Officer of MCA-Zambia II integrates the capacities of the MCA-Zambia II team, which is comprised of Programs and Administration functions, and directs them toward the delivery of the Compact. The CEO represents MCA-Zambia II and aligns its work with the priorities and direction of the MCA Board of Directors and the requirements of both the MCC and the Zambian government. The CEO will be responsible for the effective leadership of MCA-Zambia II to achieve the Compact objectives and establish the entity as a significant partner in the economic and social development of the country.

Primary Responsibilities

• Direct the programmatic and administrative capacities of MCA-Zambia II to create an effective platform of service that will deliver on the Compact’s goals and commitments consistent with the Compact’s principles and objectives. 

• Oversee competitive recruitment and building up of the MCA’s capacity at the management team level to facilitate cooperation, information sharing, and mutual accountability across the MCA and MCC teams. 

• Empower heads of functions to pursue innovative and effective approaches in programmatic and operational policy and project design and delivery which advance the MCA’s ability to deliver and distinguish the organization as an effective partner in development. 

• Advise the MCA Board of Directors and MCC counterparts on the progress, issues, and risks related to the implementation of the Compact in order to build up support and strengthen decision making critical to MCA operations. 

• Build collaborative networks and relationships with the MCC, program partners, civil society organizations, the private sector, government counterparts, donors, and project stakeholder communities to bolster collaboration throughout the Compact’s lifecycle. 

• Establish a culture and infrastructure across programmatic and administrative functions to manage and report on the MCA’s program activity pipeline and project portfolio to ensure the efficient commitment of resources and delivery of the Compact. 

• Oversee MCA-Zambia II’s compliance with all in-country laws, MCC’s policies and procedures regarding the management of projects, funds and personnel with a culture that supports zero tolerance for fraud and corruption. 

• Oversee the tasks and daily responsibilities of the two Deputy Chief Executive Officers, General Counsel, Director of Communications and Outreach, and Internal Auditor. 

• Other duties and responsibilities as assigned by the MCA Zambia II Board and MCC Senior Leadership. 

Required Competencies

• Advanced University degree in Economics, Social Sciences, Business Administration, Engineering, Agriculture, Public Administration or related fields.

• Minimum of ten (10) years of experience in executive management, leading large-scale, cross-cutting national development programs for government, bilateral, or multilateral agencies/organizations.

• Proven track record in strategic planning, organizational development, and project management, preferably in the context of large-scale development programs.

• Experience in managing complex, multi-stakeholder projects, with a focus on results-based management and accountability.

• Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, financial planning, and analysis, and experience with donor-funded projects.

• Solid experience in operational and productive collaboration with government (at national and local levels), civil society, nongovernmental organizations, private sector, and/or international technical and financial partners.

• Proven experience in the management of public finances and/or development projects/programs with bilateral or multilateral technical and financial partners. Familiarity with public financial management and donor project management systems or similar systems.

• Comprehensive understanding of gender and social inclusion approaches and experience in meeting environmental, gender, social, health and safety requirements in international development projects.

• Demonstrated budget/portfolio management and operational leadership skills, preferably with experience working on large (+$10M) projects funded by international donors, including procurement and management of large contracts with consulting services and infrastructure firms.

• Fluent written and verbal communication skills in English.

How to apply

The following documents should accompany applications:

1. Curriculum vitae containing detailed work experience;  
2. Cover letter confirming interest and availability;   
3. Soft copies of higher education and professional certificates (if available).  

The closing date for receiving applications is Friday, 25th October 2024. Only applications received through the online (Tenderwell) portal will be considered. Any applications received through other channels will not be considered. If you meet challenges in applying online, please contact +260964072009 for assistance. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Diversity Statement:

“MCA Zambia is committed to equal opportunities for all and does not discriminate on grounds of race, gender, religion, disability or any other status. Women and minority candidates are encouraged to apply”.