Economic Development Coordinator

£ Competitive + hard to work allowance (1 year fixed-term contract)
Gaza

To find out more about this role and to apply, visit www.oxfam.org.uk/jobs and quote ref: INT4354.

At Oxfam, we believe no one should have to live in poverty. And that regardless of religion, gender, age or where they live, people have the right to earn a living. By driving economic development in Gaza, where people are forced to live under a crippling blockade, you’ll help realise that right.

The role
Working closely with the Deputy Country Director, you’ll plan and develop our long-term vision for economic security in Gaza, integrating projects and making sure everyone’s pulling in the same direction. Factoring in your technical experience and analysis abilities, you’ll lead our programmes towards a civil society development model approach. You’ll work with our existing partners to build their abilities and get the most out of our relationships with them. But more than that, you’ll approach new partners – whether they’re an NGO or in the private sector – who can help us offer a better strategic response to Gaza’s economic development needs. It’s a wide-ranging role with project management responsibilities, and as well as operating on a strategic level, you’ll play a part in day-to-day practicalities like recruitment, monitoring progress, budgeting and seeing that the team are producing reports in line with donor requirements as well as providing technical expertise and support to staff and partners.

What we’re looking for
You’ll have a post-graduate qualification plus a solid background in managing economic development in an urban setting to back it up. Specialist knowledge in at least one of the following is vital - agriculture, business models and urban development – but preferably you have experience in all of these areas. Because we’re working in a volatile situation, you’ll need to be ready to adapt to the ever-changing situation on the ground, with the ability to respond to an emergency if it were to occur.  You’ll also be using your top-notch monitoring and evaluation skills to analyse complex local and national environments, altering strategic plans accordingly. Working in this difficult environment calls for excellent communication and interpersonal skills, both to inspire and develop your team and deal with different cultural contexts. With this in mind, Arabic language skills would be an advantage, though it’s more important that you’re sensitive to gender and diversity, integrating them into your work at every level.

About Oxfam
A simple, inescapable truth underlines everything we do at Oxfam. There’s enough wealth in this world to go around. It’s not unfortunate that people live in poverty. It’s unjustifiable. It’s not just their problem. It’s ours too. And with the right support, we can beat poverty and injustice. Thousands of people already commit their time and talents to our campaigning, humanitarian and long-term development projects. Now we’re looking for yours.

How to apply
To find out more about this role and to apply, visit www.oxfam.org.uk/jobs and quote ref: INT4354.

Closing Date: 18th February 2011
Interview Date: W/c 27th February 2011