Job Summary

• The Project Director will lead the implementation of AYGF’s programs and operations in Edo State.
• This role entails providing strategic direction, fostering stakeholder engagement, ensuring the timely and high-quality delivery of program results, and managing project teams effectively.
• As the principal representative of AYGF in Edo State, the Project Director will also ensure strict adherence to donor requirements as well as the organization’s policies, procedures, and standards.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the design, planning, execution, and oversight of all AYGF projects in Edo State.
• Ensure alignment of project activities with AYGF’s strategic priorities and donor expectations.
• Develop and oversee work plans, budgets, and reporting timelines.
• Provide supervision, coaching, and performance management for project teams.
• Build staff capacity through training, mentoring, and performance monitoring.
• Promote a positive, inclusive, and collaborative team culture.
• Represent AYGF with donors, government agencies, local partners, and community stakeholders in Edo State.
• Foster and maintain strong partnerships with state and local government authorities, civil society organizations, and private sector actors.
• Participate in relevant coordination meetings and networks to advance program visibility and influence.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning (MEAL)
• Ensure strong MEAL systems are in place to track project performance and outcomes.
• Promote adaptive learning and continuous improvement by analyzing project data and feedback.
• Ensure timely preparation and submission of reports, success stories, and other project documentation.
• Ensure all projects adhere to AYGF policies and donor regulations.
• Identify and mitigate project risks, including financial, operational, reputational, and security risks.
• Ensure safeguarding and protection policies are integrated into all aspects of programming.

Qualifications and Experience

• Qualification should be a minimum of an MSc. Development Studies, Social Sciences, Public Health, Project Management, or a related field.
• At least 10 years of progressive experience managing development or humanitarian projects, with at least 4 years in a senior leadership role.
• Proven experience working with donor-funded projects
• Strong project management, team leadership, budgeting, and reporting skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English. Knowledge of local languages in Edo is an asset.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and networking skills.
• The ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure and meet tight deadlines.

Desirable Attributes:

• Knowledge of the local context, including experience working in Edo State or the South-South region.
• Familiarity with digital tools for project management and M&E.
• Demonstrated commitment to youth development, gender equality, and social inclusion.