RTI International

Overview

Research Triangle Institute (RTI) has over 30 years’ experience assisting governments, communities, and the private sector. As a not-for-profit, independent research institute based in North Carolina, USA, RTI has roughly 6,000 employees with global experience implementing international development projects. 

IDG’s International Education Division supports education development around the world by strengthening education policy, management and practice in order to achieve measurable improvement in teaching and learning. From our well-established reputation in education system strengthening, to innovative work in early grade assessment and learning, RTI is improving education quality, relevance and efficiency through implementation of projects funded by USAID, The LEGO Foundation, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and other donors and clients. 

Project Description

RTI seeks a Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) candidate for the anticipated USAID/Malawi Secondary Success Activity. The Secondary Success Activity will build on existing structures to increase the availability, access, and quality of secondary education, including remedial skills, life skills, health and leadership, mentorship, and financial inclusion.

Position Description

In close cooperation with the project’s Chief of Party (COP), the DCOP will guarantee effective project management and successful technical implementation. They will oversee all technical components of the project and work closely with the project staff, RTI home office and USAID to adjust programmatic approach, staffing and resources as required based on continuous monitoring of project activities. As needed, the DCOP will serve as acting COP in the COP’s absence. The position will be based in Lilongwe, Malawi and is contingent upon award and funding.

Responsibilities

• Assist the COP in providing overall strategic direction and leadership for the project, ensuring alignment with USAID goals and objectives.
• Oversee implementation of the technical components of the project, ensuring the deliverables meet the required programmatic standards.
• Facilitate a collaborative approach between the project staff, technical experts, and stakeholders to develop and implement work plans, ensuring that project activities are carried out effectively and efficiently.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with relevant government agencies, civil society organizations, private sector partners, and other stakeholders to facilitate project implementation and promote sustainability.
• Support the COP in managing project budgets, ensuring effective financial management, and monitoring expenditure to achieve project goals within the allocated budget.
• Provide support on the development and submission of project reports, ensuring accuracy and compliance with USAID reporting requirements.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of knowledge management strategies to capture and disseminate project achievements, lessons learned, and best practices.
• Ensure integration of GESI considerations and other cross-cutting areas into program implementation.
• Support capacity-building initiatives for project staff and partners, promoting continuous learning and professional development.
• Serve as acting COP, whenever required. 

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree and 12 years of experience, Master's degree and 10 years of experience, PhD and 6 years of experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Experience and expertise in the implementation of large and complex projects relating to basic education, girls’ education, and/or related fields in Malawi.
• 5 years of progressive senior management experience on international donor programs preferred.
• Five years’ substantive experience working with counterparts at various levels of government, private sector leaders, and other relevant sector stakeholders.
• Experience working in Malawi is strongly preferred, with a demonstrated understanding of existing platforms and opportunities for education.
• Knowledge of USAID rules and regulations and/or experience working with USAID programming preferred.
• Knowledge of USAID gender programming and PEPFAR/DREAMS rules and regulations preferred.
• Demonstrated skills in building, mobilizing, and leading multidisciplinary teams.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Fluency in written and spoken English is required.
• Fluency in one or more languages of Malawi strongly preferred.
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