Myanmar: Program Specialist

Mar 23, 2020 | Pact
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At the heart of Pact is the promise of a better tomorrow. A nonprofit international development organization founded in 1971, Pact works on the ground in nearly 40 countries to improve the lives of those who are challenged by poverty and marginalization. We serve these communities because we envision a world where everyone owns their future. To do this, we build systemic solutions in partnership with local organizations, businesses, and governments that create sustainable and resilient communities where those we serve are heard, capable, and vibrant. Pact is a recognized global leader in international development. Our staff have a range of expertise in areas including public health, capacity development, governance and civil society, natural resource management, poverty, fragile states, monitoring and evaluation, small-scale and artisanal mining, microfinance and more. This expertise is combined in Pact’s unique integrated approach, which focuses on systemic changes needed to improve people’s lives.

Department

Program Delivery (PDEL) - Pact exists to help create a world where those who are poor and marginalized exercise their voice, build their own solutions, and take ownership of their future. The Program Delivery Team, contributes to realizing this purpose by: Forging smart partnerships and treating all people with dignity and respect; Applying organizational policies and regulatory compliance appropriately and consistently; Facilitating team spirit among colleagues and promoting the organization through communications; Influencing decision makers through focused, relevant communications; Continually striving to learn and share knowledge and find small ways to make the workplace more enjoyable for all; Cultivating and harvesting innovation; Contributing to the organization’s ability to think and act strategically at all times; Inspiring and spreading our desired organizational culture across the global enterprise.

Position Overview

There are two open positions for this role, one in Yangon, Myanmar and one in Kathmandu, Nepal.

Pact is seeking two motivated part-time program strategists for Nepal and Myanmar to support the design and launch of a new initiative focused on the development of solar-based mini-grids and the productive use of energy by mini-grid customers.

The Energy and Economic Development Program Strategist will serve as a representative for his/her country, working with a team of local and international experts to refine the proposed business model, identify local partners, and engage with relevant government entities to understand the regulatory regime and ensure buy-in. This position is contingent upon award and will be a part-time role for 6-8 months. Open to Nepali and Myanmar nationals only.

Key Responsibilities

• Maintains and develop an effective network of both technical and business contacts that provides information and intelligence on the state of the energy market and overall village-level economy.
• Coordinates with counterparts globally to support development of a compelling 5-year programmatic and business strategy. Coordinates with Pact’s Country Offices and relevant project teams to ensure programmatic alignment and solicit ongoing input.

• Documents and disseminates ideas, research, and case studies. Gathers and analyses data from multiple different sources using primary and secondary approaches. Data collection and analysis efforts include but not limited to primary economic activities, relevant supply chains, existing and planned electrification, regional and local cultural and gender dynamics impacting the project, political economy considerations. 

• Identify potential donors and investors, manage relationships with these stakeholders, and organize site visits. Provide support for grant-writing when needed, and lead interactions with potential donors and investors on a national level.

Basic Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field such as business, economics, international relations, or engineering. Post-graduate degree preferred.
• 10 years of experience working in international development, financial services, engineering, consulting or another related field. Significant knowledge and network related to economic development and preferably the energy sector.
• Strong experience with strategic planning, budget development and monitoring, financial analysis, development of metrics, and reporting.
• Documented success in raising philanthropic capital from various donors, including national agencies, foundations, and/or corporations. Preferably experience with raising funds from impact investors.
• Knowledge and understanding of donor policies and regulations including corporate giving and partnership mechanisms (both philanthropy and business-case engagement).
• Ability to establish and maintain interpersonal and professional relationships with staff, donors, local partners, host governments and other implementing organizations.
• Excellent written and oral communications, including strong public speaking and presentation skills.
• Strong proficiency with Microsoft Office programs.
• Ability and willingness to travel up to 30% of the time in diverse cultural environments.
• Native fluency in the national language as well as strong proficiency in English.