Executive Director

Executive Director

Shechen Karuna is a reputable Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) dedicated to contributing to reducing poverty through altruism in action philosophy. With a rich history of impactful initiatives, we strive to serve the local communities in a holistic manner. As we expand our operations, we are seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join us in the role of Executive Director. 

Location: Kathmandu, Nepal with 25% of travel required

Position Type: Full-time with annual renewal  

Job Overview:

The Executive Director will serve as the strategic leader responsible for the overall management, growth, and impact of Shechen-Karuna in Nepal. This key leadership position requires a visionary individual with proven experience in managing complex NGO operations, fostering partnerships, and driving sustainable development outcomes.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Leadership:

• Develop a coherent country program strategy that articulates the distinctive values of Karuna Shechen, aligns with the global strategy, and can be effectively communicated to a diverse range of stakeholders, including team members, government bodies, community members, and donor agencies.
• Provide visionary leadership, ensuring alignment with the organization's global strategy and values.
• Develop and execute strategic plans to achieve organizational goals and maximize impact.

Program Development and Management:

• Lead overall proposal development process, including contributing to proposal and budget documents, and ensure programs are based on sound design principles and responsive to demonstrated needs.
• Oversee the planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all programs in Nepal. 
• Ensure programs align with international standards and contribute to the organization's overarching mission.

Partnership Development:

• Cultivate and strengthen partnerships with government entities, local NGOs, donors, and other stakeholders.
• Foster collaboration and synergies to enhance program effectiveness.

Resource Mobilization:

• Lead fundraising efforts by identifying funding opportunities, developing proposals, and engaging with donors.
• Ensure diversification of funding sources for sustainability.

Finance and Compliance Management:

• Oversee budget development, financial reporting, and compliance with donor requirements.
• Ensure responsible financial management, including efficient use of resources.
• Work closely with finance team to mitigate fraud, conflicts of interest and legal liabilities in accordance with organization’s policies and procedures.
• Ensure adherence to internal / external audit requirements.

Advocacy and Representation:

• Represent Shechen-Karuna at various forums, conferences, and with key stakeholders.
• Advocate for policies that align with the organization's mission and contribute to positive change.
• Under the supervision of Board of Directors coordinate with country level team, field team and Karuna Shechen Paris office to formulate and communicate effective public relations and external messaging pertaining to Nepal.
• Demonstrate flexibility, resilience and ability to maintain positive relationships and composure.
• Represent Shechen Karuna’s programs with national and international stakeholder in community activities as appropriate.

Team Leadership:

• Practice and promote the culture of Altruism in Action.
• Provide inspirational leadership to a diverse team, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and accountability.
• Recruit and manage an informed, skilled, and efficient team, and assist with career development and team-building efforts.
• Support professional development and well-being of staff members.

Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning (MEAL):

• Establish and oversee MEAL systems to track program outcomes and impact.
• Utilize data and feedback for continuous improvement and adaptive management.

Qualifications:

• Master's degree in International Development, Social Sciences, or relevant field.
• Minimum 10 years of senior leadership experience in an NGO, (or INGO) with a track record of successful program management and team leadership.
• Fluency in English and Nepali is a must. Ability to speak Hindi and French is an asset.
• Strong understanding of the socio-economic and political context in Nepal.
• Proven ability to secure funding from diverse sources and manage budgets effectively.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with a wide range of stakeholders.
• Commitment to Shechen-Karuna’s mission and values.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit a resume, cover letter, and three professional references to nepal@karuna-shechen.org.  Please include "SK-Nepal ED Application - [Applicant Name]" in the subject line of the email. The application deadline is 21 February 2024.

Shechen-Karuna is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage candidates of all backgrounds to apply. Canvassing at any stage of the process will lead to disqualification. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further selection process. Telephone inquiries will not be entertained.

Shechen-Karuna is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults. All offers of employment will be subject to appropriate background checks.