LVC026-Programme Manager, PacREF

University of the South Pacific·Suva

NGO & Development·Contract

FJD 103,576 per year·Posted 1 day ago

About the company

The University of the South Pacific (USP) is the region's premier higher education provider, delivering essential research and regional integration services for the benefit of Pacific people. USP is an integral member of the Council of Regional Organisations of the Pacific (CROP) and plays a lead role in the Working Groups for Human Resources Development (HRD) and strengthened Information Communication Technologies (ICT).

About the role

The Programme Manager, PacREF provides direct support to the Director - PacREF and the Vice Chancellor & President, managing the operational, financial and administrative responsibilities of the PacREF Facilitating Unit. This unit acts as Secretariat to member countries of the Conference of the Pacific Education Ministers Meeting and the Pacific Heads of Education Systems. The role coordinates implementing agencies, convenings, and engagement with countries and donor agencies, and supports resource mobilisation for PacREF implementation. Key areas of work span programme coordination and delivery, stakeholder engagement, monitoring, evaluation and reporting, administrative and financial oversight, and resource mobilisation. This is a fixed-term position for 12 months, renewable subject to the availability of project funding.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement detailed work plans and budgets for PacREF Programme activities, in partnership with Implementing Agencies (IAs) and other stakeholders.
• Maintain oversight of and engagement with other initiatives and programmes that contribute to PacREF objectives.
• Oversee day-to-day programme operations, ensuring timely delivery of outputs and activities.
• Identify risks or challenges in programme implementation and address these through relevant governance processes for the Director of PacREF.
• Act as the primary liaison for operational engagement with partner organizations, donors, and IAs where required.
• Support collaboration through regional workshops, consultations, and capacity-building initiatives.
• Provide guidance and support the design and implementation of the M&E framework, including drafting papers and reports.
• Manage programme budgets, supervise consultants supporting PacREF delivery, and assist the Director in identifying and securing funding for programme activities.

About the successful candidate

• Degree and a postgraduate qualification in a relevant discipline with five years of relevant experience and proven management expertise.
• At least 7 years of progressive experience in programme management roles, preferably in education and/or regional development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience in the effective management of complex programmes.
• Familiarity with education sector programming and data-driven programme management tools.
• Strong communication, facilitation, collaboration and report writing skills.
• Experience working in Pacific regional contexts, with an understanding of regional architecture and priorities.
• Experience leading teams and working in complex environments and strategic policy areas.
• Well versed with government systems, CROP agencies and UN partners, and experience working with donors and multilateral partners.