Energy Program Manager at Mercy Corps

The Position

The program manager will be a senior member of the Mercy Corps - Energy 4 Impact programs and advisory team and will oversee the planning, budgeting, implementation, monitoring and reporting of specific projects for which he/she is responsible. He/she will also provide energy engineering advice to country programs and consultancy services to our SME clients, including solar PV system companies, mini-grid developers and productive use businesses.

Essential Responsibilities 

Team Management

• Provide technical and managerial support to team members towards project delivery and professional development.
• Be a champion for the mission, vision and values of Mercy Corps.
• Promote and encourage a transparent, cohesive and ethical work culture.

Program Management

• Manage the implementation of project activities according to the objectives, indicators, work plan and approved budget including, staffing, budgeting and internal/external reporting
• Ensure regular and proper project documentation and reporting according to donor and Mercy Corps standards, rules & regulations
• Develop and manage relationships with key stakeholders including local partners, county governments, private sector firms, NGOs, financial institutions, potential donors and other institutional and research partners

Technical Support 

• Provide technical support to team members and ensure compliance with Mercy Corps policies and procedures
• Provide technical advice to early and later stage SMEs, including stand-alone solar appliance suppliers, mini-grid developers, solar home system companies and others.

Minimum Qualification & Transferable Skills

• Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science, Engineering, Business, Economics, Finance, or related degree. MA/S is advantageous.
• At least 5 – 7 years’ experience implementing donor funded projects
• Experience working with small businesses and/or energy SMEs and/or an understanding of renewable energy technologies and business models
• Experience in project development, financing, operation and maintenance of distributed solar energy systems
• Excellent organisation and project management skills. Ability to manage multiple programmes and client engagements, meet deadlines and allocate resources effectively
• Strong financial management skills with proven experience managing large budgets.
• Strong skills in developing accurate and timely reports to donors.
• High level of interpersonal skills and comfortable collaborating with senior level colleagues, SMEs, public agencies, and other stakeholders. Track record managing a diverse mix of professionals and different cultures.
• Superior communication skills, both verbal and written, and good oral presentation skills.
• Ability to effectively represent Mercy Corps and its interests to key stakeholders; proven ability to develop partnerships and effective relationships with industry stakeholders including SMEs, investors, donors, and other stakeholders.