Terms of Reference
Introduction. As part of the Aga Khan Development Network’s (AKDN) initiatives to improve the quality of life of target geographies and communities, AKF’s country offices, as led by its CEOs, mobilise resources, implement activities and manage key financial and operational matters. The CEO is responsible for positioning the unit for success over the longer-term.
AKF Syria. The Aga Khan Foundation (AKF) brings together human, financial and technical resources to support some of the poorest and most marginalised communities of the world. With an emphasis on women and girls, AKF invests in human potential, expanding opportunity and improving quality of life. In Syria, AKF leads a range of integrated, innovative and gender sensitive humanitarian-oriented interventions in agriculture and food security, civil society, early childhood development, education, health and nutrition and work and enterprise. This work is guided by AKF’s global programme framework. Target geographies include Aleppo, Damascus, Hama, Homs and Tartous. AKF has operated in Syria since 2003 with a mandate to support social and economic development in select governorates. Since 2011, AKF’s interventions have focused on humanitarian assistance.
Relationships. The CEO reports into AKF’s General Manager, via whom s/he is accountable to AKF’s Board. The CEO works with AKF’s Head Office Directors of Programmes, Finance, Operations, Partnerships and Organisational Effectiveness, and other senior staff, from whom s/he receives guidance concerning their respective areas.
S/he also liaises with the AKDN Resident Representative, other AKDN entities (AKAH/AKHS/FMFI), internal and stakeholders as well as community leaders, such as the President of the National Council.
Responsibilities. The CEO has the responsibility for leading and managing the unit’s staff and is expected to demonstrate progress in achieving strategic goals provided by the Board. S/He plays the leading role in managing the program and operations in Syria and continuously evolving them to become relevant, more effective, efficient, and innovative. S/he will function as the most senior representative of AKF in Syria and is accountable to ensure that its profile and reputation with stakeholders are strong and reflect Organisational Values and Mission.
The CEO is the interlocutor connecting global priorities with country specific plans. S/He is expected to work in close consultation and coordination with global teams to fulfil the duties/responsibilities of the position. In order to carry-out effective activities, the CEO’s key functions encompass:
Strategic direction. Work closely with AKF’s Head Office to ensure the unit’s efforts are thoughtfully prioritised and balanced per direction from AKF’s Board concerning its geographic and thematic focus area(s) and aligned to the global programme framework.
Management and HR/Operations. In order to facilitate effective programme delivery, lead on: (i) Supervision of the Senior Management Team; (ii) HR and organisational development, e.g., appropriate internal staffing structures, policies, competencies, satisfaction and performance; developing talent pipelines; and effectively engaging volunteer resources; (iii) security, safety and duty of care; and (iv) IT.
Designing and Implementing programmes. Working closely with the Global Programme Team, effectively design and implement activities, including tangible, measured results for beneficiary communities as well as meeting the donor(s)’s and AKF’s key objectives and parameters for grant management and programme delivery.
Finance. Oversee the financial health of the organisation and ensure its continued viability, working closely with the CFO on (i) financial-related matters, e.g., budgets which reflect multi-year goals, financial controls, custodial functions (cash as well as property assets); (ii) other key legal, regulatory- and compliance-related issues;
Mobilising resources. Ensure sufficient resources towards the strategic priorities, through the unit’s own partnerships and activities, and work with the partnership units in Canada, the US and the UK and the Head Office where needed. These efforts include building and maintaining strong relationships with donors.
Stakeholder relationships. Ensure the unit’s key internal and external stakeholder relations are effectively managed towards achieving unit objectives, notably with other AKDN agencies (AKAH/AKHS/FMFI) and other key actors, such as the AKDN Resident Representative, the President of the National Council.
Requirements. The following are desired qualifications for prospective CEOs:
- 10 years or more of professional experience in social and human international development, including five years in management positions and Master’s degree in relevant field(s);
- In-depth understanding if the Syrian context;
- Fluent in English and Arabic;
- Understanding and appreciation for AKDN’s goals, values and ethics;
- Excellent strategic, analytical and communication skills;
- The ability to navigate ambiguity, complexity and multiple priorities and stakeholders;
- The ability to lead, learn and adapt to change; and
- The capacity to inspire, motivate and empower people.
