Various Countries - Head of Programmes

Organization: COOPI - Cooperazione Internazionale Closing date: 26 Oct 2026 COOPI is looking for a Head of Programmes in various countries COOPI COOPI – Cooperazione Internazionale operates across several countries in East, West and Central Africa, implementing humanitarian assistance, emergency response and development programmes. COOPI works in complex and fragile contexts affected by displacement, food insecurity, climate-related shocks and limited access to basic services. Its interventions are implemented through an integrated and multisectoral approach, with key areas of expertise including WASH, Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL), Nutrition and Protection, with a particular focus on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Child Protection. Programmes are implemented both directly and in partnership with local and national organisations, with increasing attention to localisation, capacity strengthening, community participation and the sustainability of interventions. COOPI manages a diversified portfolio of institutional donors, including DG ECHO, the European Union/INTPA, AICS, UN Agencies, OCHA, UE and the World Bank, supporting both emergency interventions and longer-term resilience and development programmes. Description of the role The Programme Coordinator is responsible for the definition and quality of the programmes and the monitoring and evaluation system in the country, in compliance with the organisation's policies and standards. He supports the Head of Mission in relations with donors and partners. Responsibilities INSTITUTIONAL RELATIONS • In coordination with the Country Coordinator, meet regularly with donors and partners consolidating COOPI's position in the country and manage their project visits in agreement with the project leaders; • Engage new potential donors and partners, working closely with the Head of Mission; • Ensure participation in sectoral clusters directly or through figures; DEVELOPMENT • Examine the priorities and strategies of the main institutional donors and propose project proposals based on COOPI's expertise and geographical presence; • Coordinate the definition and implementation of the country programme strategy, with the support of the Head of Mission and sectoral experts; • Providing guidance on the organisation's position on the various sectors in accordance with HQ guidelines and coordinate with the Head of Mission; • Capitalise on the sectoral experience gained in its geographical area of competence and develop standards of approaches and practices implemented in projects, within the guidelines of headquarters; MANAGEMENT Project Management • Develop and draft new project proposals (ECHO, EU, AICS, UN) in cooperation with the country's logistics and administrative function; • Ensure the final review of all project reports (interim, quarterly and final); • Ensure the submission of reports according to internal and external deadlines; • Carrying out field monitoring missions in the intervention areas; • Supporting the review and approval of MEAL plans for all projects; • Using MEAL data to innovate and engage new donors and partners; Human Resources Management • Identify human resources needs within existing and/or new programmes; • Participate in the staff selection process at the request of the Head of Mission and Headquarters for expatriate and national staff; • Train project leaders and other programme staff on monitoring and quality aspects of activities, in coordination with the Head of Mission/Region/Headquarters; • Evaluate staff for their part of the competence, according to COOPI procedures; Communication Management and Fund • Support production and distribution of communication and visibility tools for COOPI; • Collect the necessary data and information in collaboration with field teams to deliver communication products. Requirements ESSENTIAL • Master's degree in relevant subjects (postgraduate degree required); • At least 3 years of work experience in formulating, implementing and coordinating projects with international NGOs; • Experience working with different donors (ECHO, EU, AICS and UN agencies); • Good knowledge of humanitarian standards and principles; • Excellent reporting and proposal writing skills in English and French; • Proactive attitude in planning and coordination with agencies, institutions and points of reference; • Results orientation and problem-solving skills; • Strong management skills; • Good leadership skills, aimed at team management and motivation; • Ability to handle stressful and complex situations with a positive attitude; • Diplomatic skills and confidentiality; • Advanced computer skills; • Sharing COOPI's vision and mission. DESIRED • Previous work experience in West, East and Central Africa; • Knowledge of the Italian language will be considered a plus. We reserve the right to close the vacancy prior to the application closing date, once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please note that only the shortlisted candidates will be contacted. COOPI Cooperazione Internazionale is an Italian secular and independent humanitarian organisation fighting against all forms of poverty to improve the world. Founded in 1965, today COOPI is present in 27 countries in Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean and the Middle East, with both emergency and development projects carried out by expatriate staff – an average of over 200 people per year – and national staff. The main institutional funders are the European Union – ECHO and INTPA – USAID, UN agencies, the Italian Government, local authorities and other European Governments. How to apply Please send your CV and cover letter at the following link: https://coopi.org/en/job-position.html?id=901034