Website Smile Foundation
Summary of Role
The Project Lead/Program Manager for the Livelihood Program will be responsible for managing the overall execution and success of the livelihood initiatives in urban areas. 1 includes planning, implementing, monitoring, and scaling the project while coordinating with various stakeholders. The Project Lead/Program Manager will work to empower marginalized communities by providing skill development, entrepreneurship support, anc job placement opportunities, with the goal of improving livelihoods and socio-economic conditions.
Key Responsibilities
1. Project Planning & Strategy:
• Develop and implement a comprehensive project plan, including detailed timelines, deliverables, and resource allocation.
• Identify target communities and beneficiaries for the program through needs assessments and data driven analysis.
2. Program Execution & Management:
• Lead and oversee the day-to-day operations of the project, ensuring timely execution of all planned activities.
• Ensure alignment of project objectives with the overall mission and goals of the organization.
• Supervise the implementation of skill development, and employment initiatives in the urban context.
• Coordinate the recruitment, training, and onboarding of program staff, trainers, and mobilizers.
3. Team Leadership:
• Manage and lead a team of project coordinators, field staff, trainers, and administrative personnel.
• Provide guidance, mentorship, and capacity-building support to team members to enhance their skills and performance.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement within the team.
4. Stakeholder Engagement:
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders, including local governments, NGOs, corporate partners, and community leaders.
• Work with industry partners to facilitate job placements, internships and job lead for program beneficiaries.
5. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting:
• Develop and implement robust monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to track project progress, outcomes, and impact.
• Regularly review and assess data to ensure project goals and KPIs are met, and make necessary adjustments to strategies as needed.
• Prepare and submit timely reports to senior management, funders, and stakeholders, detailing the program’s achievements, challenges, and opportunities.
6. Budget & Financial Management:
• Manage the project budget, ensuring prudent financial management, adherence to budget constraints, and efficient allocation of resources.
• Prepare financial reports and submit them to the finance team in a timely manner.
• Identify areas for cost-saving and ensure cost-effective project implementation.
7. Beneficiary Support & Mobilization:
• Lead beneficiary mobilization efforts to ensure enrolment in training programs, or other livelihood opportunities.
• Work with urban community organizations to create awareness about the program and ensure equitable access to services.
• Provide ongoing support to program beneficiaries, including counseling, mentorship, and follow-up assistance post-placement.
Qualification and Experience
• Masters degree in social work, Business Administration, Development Studies, or a related field.
• At least 5-7 years of experience in managing large-scale urban livelihood or similar social development projects.
• Proven experience in leading teams, managing multiple stakeholders, and delivering on project outcomes.
• Strong understanding of urban poverty, employment challenges, and community dynamics.
• Strong project management and leadership skills; with a demonstrated ability to meet deadlines and manage complex operations.
• Proficiency in M&E, data analysis, and reporting.
• Familiarity with urban employment trends, vocational training, and entrepreneurship.
• A proactive and innovative thinker, capable of problem-solving and adapting to dynamic urban environments.
• Passionate about creating sustainable impact and empowering marginalized communities.
How to Apply:
Share your CV/Profile with a brief note (cover letter) telling why you find yourself a right fit for the role, with the subject line (Your Name) – <Position Applied> at jobs@smilefoundationindia.org
Smile Foundation is an Equal Opportunity Employer however preference will be given to women candidates.
Please Note: Only shortlisted candidates would be contacted by the Human Resources Team
To apply for this job email your details to jobs@smilefoundationindia.org.