Job Vacancies at Search For Common Ground’s International

Position Summary

Search for Common Ground is seeking a Project Officer under the supervision of the Project Manager. The Project Officer is responsible for supporting the quality implementation and monitoring of project activities, tasks and responsibilities assigned to her/him. The Project Officer expected outputs are geared towards supporting the delivery of outputs and outcomes of the project as a whole. S/he will support the project closely with the project Manager in ensuring quality project activities implementation and the timely compilation and submission of project activity reports. The Project officer will be responsible for assisting the project manager in project related activities, ensuring smooth operations of the project and consistency of project implementation with Search’s and donor regulations. He/she shall ensure that the project’s plans are in place and kept updated as per the project’s overall objective. 

This position will be based in Kebbi with frequent travels to project field locations. She/he will work under the direct supervision of the Project Manager. The position holder will directly oversee the project activity implementation and work closely with other team members.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Coordinate and arrange all logistics for various meetings and workshops, including invitations, venue, participants travel and accommodation;
• In collaboration with the project manager, facilitate the creation and implementation of a detailed annual work-plan, which identifies sequences of activities needed to successfully implement the project and ensure project objectives are met;
• In collaboration with key stakeholders, facilitate the development and rollout of detailed implementation plans in communities and LGAs;
• Review the project schedule with the Project Manager and all other staff that will be affected by the project activities; revise and regularly review the schedule as required;
• Document project activities and ensure that all project data is appropriately secured;
• Monitor the progress of the project implementation and make adjustments as necessary to ensure the project remains on track and is successfully implemented;
• Establish a communication schedule to update stakeholders, including appropriate staff in the organization on the progress of the project.
• In collaboration with M & E officer, assist with the implementation and development of monitoring and evaluation tools as well as timely uploading of MOVs.
• Produce and ensure timely submission of activity reports and monthly reports
• Carry out any other tasks, duties that will be assigned by the line Manager 

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in peace and conflict studies, international relations, development studies or a related discipline (or equivalent experience)

Required Experience

• At least 4 years of experience in quality project implementation, including experience in engaging with state and non-state actors that includes; Government , religious leaders, traditional leaders, civil society organization, INGOs/NGOs and professional network. Most importantly, experience working in conflict or post-conflict environment. 

Other Relevant Requirements

• A good context understanding of the North West and North Central Nigeria, particularly in terms of key social, political, economic and security issues.
• Excellent diplomacy and interpersonal skills and ability to work in a non-partisan manners, appreciating gender, cultural, ethnic and religious diversity.
• Ability to work independently, but also experience of working as an effective team member.
• Ability to be manage multiple task effectively and pay attention to details.
• Ability to work within deadlines with strong communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills, including ability to develop activity concept notes, draft reports and briefings
• Must be fluent in English (written and Spoken) while strong understanding of Hausa and French languages is an advantage.
• Resident in the state of application with strong understanding of the people culture, traditional and norms as well as speaks and understand their common language.
• Knowledge of and exposure to a wide range of conflict prevention; peace; conflict transformation; governance, and development and humanitarian issues;
• Good knowledge of the country context and ability to network with both civil society and public sector
• Ability to review and analyze and interpret financial reports, budget versus actuals, financial projections and procurement documentation;
• Good interpersonal and networking skills, as well as the ability to conduct professional working relationships;
• Analytical capacity, including the ability to analyze and articulate peace, human security and conflict issues;
• Basic computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite) and other software
• Detail-oriented with ability to meet deadlines, both prescribed and self-imposed
• Willingness and desire to learn while demonstrating self-initiative
• Ability to adapt to new cultures and work in diverse environments

Added Advantage

• Language Skills: (Native/Fluent/Basic)
• English Language (Fluent)
• Hausa (an added advantage)
• French (an added advantage)

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Position Summary

The Director of Operations will oversee all operational functions, ensuring the efficiency, compliance, and effectiveness of Search Nigeria’s operations. This role requires a strategic thinker with strong leadership skills, capable of managing procurement, logistics, administration, security, IT, and general office operations to support program implementation. The Director of Operations will work closely with the Country Director, program teams, finance, and HR departments to ensure seamless coordination of activities.

Key Responsibilities

Change Management

• Provide strategic leadership for all operational functions, ensuring alignment with Search’s global policies and donor requirements.
• Develop and implement operational plans, policies, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to optimize efficiency and effectiveness.
• Ensure operational compliance with national laws, donor regulations, and Search’s internal policies.
• Oversee the management of Search Nigeria’s assets, office facilities, and vehicle fleet.
• Lead procurement planning and execution, ensuring transparency, cost-effectiveness, and compliance with Search and donor policies.
• Oversee contracts and agreements with vendors, service providers, and consultants.
• Supervise logistics and supply chain functions to ensure timely delivery of goods and services to project locations.
• Oversee office management, leases, and maintenance of office equipment and supplies.
• Oversee the Security Focal Point, ensuring implementation of Search’s global security policies.
• Oversee regular assessment of security risks and update security protocols in collaboration with the Global Security Team.
• Oversee implementation of  security briefings and training to staff to ensure their safety and preparedness.
• Ensure the functionality and security of IT infrastructure, coordinating with the IT team for support and upgrades.
• Oversee data protection and compliance with Search’s cybersecurity policies.
• Manage administrative services, including office supplies, travel arrangements, and staff accommodations.
• Lead and mentor the operations team, fostering a culture of excellence, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Provide training and capacity-building initiatives to enhance staff knowledge of procurement, logistics, security, and compliance procedures.
• Support career development and performance management of operational staff.
• Act as a change accelerator by clearly communicating operational changes, facilitating transitions, and mitigating resistance.
• Lead initiatives that promote agility, adaptability, and readiness for emerging challenges.

Competencies & Skills

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Development, or a related field.
• At least 8-10 years of progressive experience in operations, logistics, procurement, or administration, preferably in an NGO or international development setting.
• Strong leadership and team management experience, with the ability to coordinate multi-functional teams.
• Experience managing donor-funded projects, particularly those funded by USAID, EU, DFID, or UN agencies.
• Knowledge of security risk management in complex environments.
• Strong financial acumen with experience in budgeting and cost control.
• Excellent written and spoken English; knowledge of Hausa, Yoruba, or Igbo is an advantage.
• Experience working in Nigeria or the West Africa region.
• Familiarity with peacebuilding, humanitarian, or development programs.
• Experience in emergency response and crisis management.
• Strategic Thinking: Ability to align operational functions with programmatic goals.
• Problem-Solving: Quick decision-making and crisis management skills.
• Communication & Negotiation: Strong interpersonal and negotiation skills for managing stakeholders.
• Attention to Detail: Strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Tech-Savviness: Familiarity with procurement and financial management systems.