ECODIT is an international development firm working with governments, businesses, and local communities to advance environmentally- and socially-responsible development around the world. We provide technical assistance services ranging from quick-turnaround assessments and evaluations to design and implementation of long-term multi-million-dollar projects. Since its founding in 1993, ECODIT has provided professional services through more than 250 projects/contracts to diverse clients in 50+ countries. Building on our track record of success, we have continuously expanded the depth and breadth of our expertise in the water, energy, environment, and urban and local governance sectors.
Overview
The Chief of Party (COP) will oversee all technical, financial and administrative aspects of the anticipated USAID Caribbean Energy Initiative (CEI) Regional Energy Sector Reform The goal of this initiative is to achieve affordable, reliable, and sustainable power in the Caribbean, building the energy sector resilience with a focus on (1) reducing electricity prices, (2) increasing quality service, and (3) enhancing the ability of electricity systems in the Caribbean to withstand shocks. The program will be based in, or around, Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
The COP will act as the main point of contact between USAID, ECODIT and partner organizations, ensuring client satisfaction through timely and accurate submission of high-quality deliverables, responding to priorities and expectations. The COP will possess strong technical experience in the energy sector, and strong management and relationship building skills. S/he will be expected to manage a team of technical experts, administrative staff and consultants; and oversee concurrent workstreams and priorities to ensure success over the life of the project.
Responsibilities
- Assume technical, financial, and administrative leadership of the project, ensuring that all tasks are implemented effectively and that all deliverables are submitted on time, within budget, and in compliance with USAID/USG rules and regulations, as well as ECODIT policies and procedures;
- Identify and execute strategies to build viable relationships with key stakeholders, including USAID, government ministries, utilities companies, private sector entities, NGOs, civil society, and beneficiaries;
- Liaise regularly with USAID to ensure the timely production and submission of annual workplans, progress reports, monitoring, evaluation and learning (MEL) plans, and other key deliverables;
- Work with the ECODIT Home Office to coordinate technical and editorial review of project deliverables prior to submission to USAID;
- Supervise a mix of long-term technical experts, non-technical staff and short-term technical consultants over the life of the contract; and
- Provide technical services for one or more project activities, and perform other tasks and duties as necessary for the success of the project.
Minimum Qualifications
- A Masters’ Degree (or equivalent) in Energy Policy, Engineering, International Development, Business Administration, Economics, Public Administration, or related field;
- A minimum of 10 years of experience leading or supporting long-term, donor-funded projects in the energy sector, preferably in Haiti, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic or other country in the Caribbean;
- Prior experience leading complex teams, with the ability to delegate authority as needed to enhance project performance;
- A track record for establishing and maintaining productive working relationships with a wide range of partners and stakeholders in an international development context; and
- Exceptional verbal and written communication skills in English.
Additional Qualifications
- Strong understanding of at least one of the following technical areas: energy sector reform; energy sector planning and resilience; utility management and operations; costs and tariffs; engineering and infrastructure; renewable/clean energy development, market access, or a related area;
- Ability and willingness to live and work in the Dominican Republic;
- Experience working on USAID-funded contracts preferred;
- Demonstrable understanding and application of USAID’s Private Sector Engagement Strategy;
- Proven experience in assembling and/or managing diverse teams to effectively execute tasks;
- Highly developed interpersonal skills, analytical and problem-solving skills;
- Written and verbal fluency in English; and
- Written and verbal fluency in Spanish, French or other relevant language highly desirable.
How to apply:
To apply, please send a cover letter and updated resume/CV in English through the “Our Jobs” section of the ECODIT website. Please note that positions are contingent upon contract award. Applications will be received and reviewed on a rolling basis. Applicants who fail to meet the application criteria may be disqualified. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Caribbean nationals currently living and working in the Dominican Republic or the Caribbean region are strongly encouraged to apply. No phone calls please.