YouLead Project Manager

Company: MS TCDC

Reports To: Head of LGA

YouLead is a joint initiative of MS-Training Centre for Development Cooperation (MS TCDC) and the East African Community Secretariat. It is a leadership program designed to unlock youth leadership potential for a prosperous Africa by identifying, recognizing, connecting, and fostering cooperation among the continent’s vibrant and influential young leaders and their initiatives. Since its inception in 2017, YouLead has evolved into a full-fledged program under MS TCDC, requiring a more structured and sustainable approach, which includes a full-time Secretariat based at MS TCDC under the Leadership and Governance Academy (LGA).

Job Overview

To strengthen YouLead’s foundation, MS TCDC is seeking a YouLead Project Manager to drive the program’s sustainability and impact. The role involves strategic planning, program execution, team leadership, and resource mobilisation. The ideal candidate will be an experienced leader in youth development, program management, and stakeholder engagement. We are looking for a proactive, visionary leader with a strong commitment to youth empowerment, advocacy, and governance.

Key Responsibilities

1. Management of YouLead Africa Program

   • Managing YouLead Africa’s initiatives and Secretariat operations.
   • Serve as the primary focal point for YouLead at MS-TCDC, including budget coordination, performance and tracking.
   • Act as the key liaison for the Head of LGA regarding approvals, reports, team performance, program successes, and challenges.
   • Lead strategic planning efforts to align YouLead’s activities with its mission and vision.
   • Strengthen YouLead’s governance structures and operational frameworks to enhance efficiency and sustainability.
   • Building partnerships with regional and international stakeholders.

2. Implementation of YouLead Africa Projects

   • Guide and oversee the YouLead Secretariat in implementing key projects, including SPA II activities, the Lead(H)er Fellowship, and the EAC Youth Fellowship.
   • Ensure effective coordination and timely execution of project activities to achieve program goals.
   • Work with internal and external stakeholders to align project implementation with strategic priorities.
   • Monitor and evaluate program impact, ensuring continuous learning and improvement.
   • Facilitate knowledge-sharing sessions and networking opportunities for young leaders and stakeholders.

3. Fundraising and Resource Mobilization

   • Lead YouLead’s fundraising strategy under the Head of LGA’s leadership by mapping fundraising opportunities and acquiring partnerships.
   • Oversee the development of fundraising proposals and donor engagement efforts.
   • Cultivate and maintain relationships with donors, partners, and stakeholders to ensure long-term program sustainability.
   • Develop and implement innovative strategies to attract funding and expand YouLead’s financial resources.
   • Ensure compliance with donor regulations and reporting requirements.

4. Leadership of YouLead Summit 2025

   • Plan and oversee the successful delivery of YouLead Summit 2025.
   • Engage with the office of the YouLead Patron and other relevant partners.
   • Strengthen collaboration with the EAC Secretariat.
   • Ensure effective branding, visibility, and impact assessment of the summit.
   • Design and implement innovative engagement strategies to enhance youth participation in the summit.

5. Administrative and Program Support

   • Support the Head of LGA with ad-hoc tasks as relevant to the unit.
   • Provide strategic insights and recommendations to improve YouLead’s effectiveness.
   • Ensure documentation and reporting of key program activities and milestones.
   • Represent YouLead at regional and international forums to promote its mission and programs.

Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in International Development, Political Science, Public Administration, Leadership, Project Management, or a related field.
• Other Bachelor degree with extensive experience in program management and leadership may be considered.

Experience

• 3 – 5 years of experience in program management, youth development, governance, or advocacy.
• Proven leadership in multi-stakeholder regional or continental programs.
• Expertise in strategic planning, execution, and M&E.
• Strong record in resource mobilization and partnership-building.
• Experience leading diverse teams in multicultural settings.
• Fluency in English is required. Fluency in French and any other AU official languages will be an added advantage.

Skills and Competencies

• Strategic Leadership: Vision setting, strategy development, and team leadership.
• Program & Project Management: Design, implementation, and impact evaluation.
• Fundraising & Resource Mobilization: Proposal writing and donor engagement.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Collaboration with governments, donors, and youth groups.
• Advocacy & Communication: Strong representation skills in regional/global forums.
• Governance & Policy Knowledge: Understanding of EAC youth policies and leadership frameworks.
• Event Planning & Coordination: Organizing large-scale youth leadership events.
• Financial Management: Budgeting, financial oversight, and grant compliance.
• Decision-Making & Problem-Solving: Navigating complex challenges effectively.

This position is open to all nationalities.

Application Process

Applicants must submit the following documents by uploading them onto the online application form:

• Application letter: explaining why you are the best fit for the role.
• Resume(s): highlighting relevant experience.

Application Deadline: 13th April 2025, midnight EAT (East African Time)

MS TCDC is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.