NATIONAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE COMMITTEE (NLGFC

 

VACANCIES

 

The National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) is mandated by an Act of Parliament to disburse and manage operational and development resources for Local Councils in Malawi.  As part of the Malawi Government reform agenda and in an effort to enhance its institutional capacity, the NLGFC and the Local Development Fund (LDF) were merged.

One of the Projects being implemented by Government with the NLGFC as fiduciary agent is the 5-year Governance to Enable Service Delivery (GESD) project to be financed by the World Bank through an International Development Assistance (IDA) Credit.   The objective of the project is “to strengthen district Local Authorities’ (LAs) institutional performance, responsiveness to citizens, and management of resources for service delivery”.

The National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) therefore seeks to strengthen its capacity to enable effective and efficient delivery of its constitutional mandates and implementation of its Projects by engaging suitably qualified, experienced and result oriented Malawian professionals to fill vacant positions tenable at the NLGFC offices, Area 14, Lilongwe.  The positions highlighted below are very challenging, requiring highly committed and skilled individuals with exceptional professional expertise specifically:

 

1. PROJECT COORDINATOR (PC) – GRADE M2

The Project Coordinator shall be responsible for day to day coordination of project implementation processes and procedures across Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) so as to ensure that the project is implemented effectively within the agreed timeframe. The PC will report to the Executive Director (ED) of the NLGFC on implementation, monitoring and reporting of activities funded by the project.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

The PC’s key duties shall include, but not be limited to, the following tasks:

1. Coordinate preparation of work plans, terms of reference, technical documents and other documents as needed to ensure timely implementation of the project activities;
2. Coordinate management of activities being implemented by lead technical MDAs financed by the project;
3. Coordinate preparation of all documents and reports on the delivery of the project for all implementing agencies such as financial reports, progress reports, project audit reports, procurement plans and operational manuals;
4. Ensure that the project is implemented in line with the Project Implementation Manual (PIM), the Project Appraisal Document (PAD) and any other policies and guidelines of the Government of Malawi;
5. Coordinate and follow up bi-annual Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meetings, quarterly Project Technical Committee (PTC) and any other Task Force meetings as defined by the project Institutional arrangements;
6. Liaise with Ministry of Local Government and Rural development and other MDAs on modalities of conducting annual local authority performance assessments
7. Coordinate disbursement of Performance Based Grants (PBG) to Local Authorities in line with Local Authority Performance Assessment (LAPA) results and Intergovernmental Fiscal Transfer System;
8. Coordinate and facilitate the NLGFC annual forum on Fiscal Decentralization;
9. Coordinate implementation of the Performance Improvement Support systems;
10. Facilitate the establishment of the Citizen Engagement Platform and related structures;
11. Perform other tasks related to project implementation as assigned by the NLGFC ED.

 

Required qualifications and experience:

This is a high-level professional position with a demanding mission and requiring the ability to engage with a range of Government stakeholders at various levels. As such, the candidates should fulfil the following requirements:

• Hold a Master’s degree in any of the following: Economics, Rural Development, Development Studies, Business Management/Administration, Accounting and Finance, or related field in social and management sciences from a recognized university.
• Have at least ten (10) years of working experience in a managerial position of government or donor funded projects, with demonstrated ability to plan, coordinate, and monitor his or her own work plan and meet deadlines.
• Extensive knowledge of Local Government systems in Malawi
• Computer literacy is essential with an excellent working knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint, email and internet. Knowledge of other specialized software (such as MS Access, MS Project, etc.) would be an advantage.
• Proven ability of working in multi-disciplinary teams with skills in team building, communication, interpersonal relationships, influencing and negotiation skills. A high level of competency in English is essential.
• Familiarity with policies and procedures of World Bank would be an added assets

 

Location:  The Project Coordinator shall operate from the offices of the NLGFC in Lilongwe, with travel, where necessary, to districts.

 

Duration: This a performance-based position, for an initial period of three (3) years (36 months) subject to annual performance reviews. The contract may be terminated due to poor performance.

 

Remuneration

The position attracts a remuneration package consistent with the working conditions of the National Professional Project Personnel (NPP) under donor-funded projects

 

2. TRAINING OFFICER – 2NO. (GRADE M4)

Job Function: The Training Officer shall assist the Capacity Development Specialist in coordinating stakeholder training and capacity development activities.         

     

Key Roles and Responsibilities

1. Identifying LA training and capacity development needs.
2. Developing and implementing of stakeholder training plan in collaboration with departmental/Section heads and other stakeholders.
3. Developing training manuals, guidelines and course materials based on appropriate community-based knowledge
4. Packaging information relating to skills, knowledge and attitudes of communities, projects committees, development partners and stakeholders implementing NLGFC projects into suitable training materials.
5. Determining financial, human and material resources required for effective implementation of training activities.
6. Identifying appropriate training providers and facilitating trainings
7. Organizing stakeholder training, workshops and knowledge exchange tours.
8. Monitoring and evaluating training impacts in collaboration with component Heads and the M&E Unit
9. Preparing quarterly and annual training reports

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Training Officer shall report to the Capacity Development Specialist

 

Qualification:  Bachelor’s Degree in Education, Human Resource Management, Business Administration or Public Administration.

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years’ experience in organizing training events or activities
• Highly developed interpersonal skills and ability to work with people at all levels.
• The person should have well developed interpersonal and communication skills and must have a sound knowledge of training policies and priorities of the civil service suitable for Council needs;
• Good knowledge of skills development procedures
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Able to demonstrate strong ethical standards
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities and meet deadlines
• Clear understanding of Local Government/project policies in skills development
• Familiarity with Local Government training requirements and systems
• A team player with strong interpersonal skills and ability to network with officials and experts in other organizations/institutions;
• Competence in the use of standard computer software such as Word, Excel, Access, Power Point and Internet

 

Employment period:  the Job has two positions, one post shall be on permanent terms and the other one (1) post on one (1) year contract terms

 

3. PROCUREMENT OFFICER (GRADE M4)

 

Job Function:  The Procurement Officer shall facilitate transparent and accountable procurement processes in accordance with Government of Malawi (GoM) and Development Partners’ policies and guidelines.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Developing and reviewing procurement manuals, handbooks and standard forms to enhance adherence to procurement
2. Conducting negotiations, preparing, maintaining and monitoring contracts and service level agreements with identified contractors and suppliers to ensure timely delivery of the contracts
3. Preparing bid documents and carrying out tendering processes for the procurement of civil works, goods, and services;
4. Preparing documentation for Technical and Procurement Audits for NLGFC beneficiary projects.
5. Monitoring adherence to procurement procedures and guidelines;
6. Implementing capacity building interventions for LA and NLGFC staff;
7. Preparing and implementing procurement plans
8. Preparing and submitting procurement reports as required from time to time.

 

Reporting Requirements:  the Procurement Officer shall report to the Procurement Specialist

 

Qualification:  Bachelor’s Degree in Supply Chain Management or Procurement or Business Administration

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years’ relevant work experience
• Knowledge and practice in use of donor procurement guidelines, procedures and documentation will be an added advantage.
• Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in teams.
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities and meet deadlines
• Competence in the use of standard computer software such as Word, Excel and Internet browsing.
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Able to demonstrate strong ethical standards

 

Employment period for the post: One (1) year contract

 

4. ASSISTANT PROCUREMENT OFFICER (GRADE M6)

Job Function:  The Assistant Procurement Officer shall assist in the facilitation of procurement of civil works, goods and services for NLGFC Programmes.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

1. Distributing prepared documents for the procurement of civil works, goods, and services to guide NLGFC staff and Local Authorities on prevailing procurement policies and guidelines;
2. Filing all relevant procurement documentation for post review purposes;
3. Undertaking random checks for advice on cost estimates and quotations for consistency, relevance and conformity to the conditions of funding;
4. Checking and ensuring that relevant procedures are adhered to in the procurement of goods and services;
5. Monitoring and reporting on management of procurement in Local Authorities

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Assistant Procurement Officer shall report to the Procurement Officer

 

Qualification:  Diploma in Supply Chain Management or Procurement related field

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Two (2) years’ relevant work experience.
• Knowledge and practice in use of donor procurement guidelines, procedures and documentation will be an added advantage.
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Competence in the use of standard computer software such as Word, Excel, Access, Power Point and Internet; and
• Able to demonstrate strong ethical standards
• Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work in teams.
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities and meet deadlines

 

Employment period for the post:  Permanent terms

 

5. DATA MANAGEMENT ASSISTANT (GRADE M6)

 

Job Function: The Data Management Assistant shall assist the NLGFC ICT Unit in ensuring completeness of data entry requirements and retrieval of reports required by various users and relevant stakeholders.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

1. Undertaking data entry activities at the National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC)
2. Providing troubleshooting support to NLGFC technology systems
3. Supporting users and relevant stakeholders in updating NLGFC databases
4. Participating in tracking information technology assets
5. Assisting in maintaining computer network and hardware
6. Assist in taking systems and database backup and archiving
7. Participating in preparation of ICT Unit annual work plans and budgets
8. Contribute to the monthly implementation progress reports of the ICT Unit.

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Data Management Assistant shall report to the Data Management Officer

 

Qualifications: Diploma in Computer Science, Information Technology or equivalent qualification

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• At least one (1) year experience in relevant field in Public or Private Sectors
• Knowledge of computer communications, networking, and printer sharing;
• Good knowledge of PC hardware & interfacing with peripheral devices (printers’ scanners etc.)
• Knowledge of operating systems and familiarity with database software packages;
• Good communication and interpersonal skills;
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.

 

Employment period for the post:  One (1) year contract

 

6. SOCIAL SAFEGUARDS OFFICER (GRADE M4)

 

Job Function: To provide support to the Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist in ensuring that all districts councils in Malawi are able to effectively comply with the Project Environmental and Social Safeguards frameworks, policy guidelines and requirements.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Support development and implementation of environmental and social safeguards management tools during project implementation in accordance with the requirements of the frameworks of the Government of Malawi and donor partner Environmental and Social Standards.
2. Provide professional input regarding social sustainability and safeguards issues into the planning, design and implementation of activities.
3. Support capacity building of environmental and social safeguards focal personnel in the district councils and relevant collaborating institutions.
4. Provide support and guidance to project teams and stakeholders in developing operational designs and mechanisms to assess safeguards impacts, opportunities, constraints and risks related to NGFC’s fulfilment of environmental and social safeguards policy requirements.
5. Supervise of the environmental and social performance of projects at sector and district levels.
6. Support stakeholder engagement activities between the grassroots communities and the councils to ensure enhanced project awareness, transparency and social accountability.
7. Monitor and assess implementation of safeguards to identify good practices as well as gaps and issues.
8. Prepare ad hoc and periodic reports

 

Reporting Requirements:       Social Safeguards Officer shall report to the Environmental and Social Safeguards Specialist

 

Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Social Science or related disciplines

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years of relevant and progressive work experience.
• Experience in processing, implementing, monitoring and assessment of environmental and social safeguards activities, preparation of studies relating to environmental and social impact assessments (including ESMPs, RAPs), etc. preferably of community-driven development projects.
• Knowledge on the use of GIS, and other relevant software applications preferred.
• Experience in successfully applying World Bank safeguards instruments in the Bank’s supported projects is required.
• Intermediate computer literacy/proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications (i.e. MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access).
• Proficient in written and verbal communication
• Excellent ability to prepare reports and documents.
• Excellent supervision/monitoring, organizational/interpersonal skills
• Ability to work with minimum supervision oral.
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities
• Experience working with decentralized implementation systems and understanding the bigger picture context of operations

 

Employment period for the post: One (I) year contract

 

7. PLANNING OFFICER (GRADE M4)

Job Function: To ensure effective implementation of NLGFC strategic and operational plans

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Facilitating preparation of work plans and budgets,
2. Identifying key research areas to inform the planning process
3. Initiating the development of project concept notes/ proposals
4. Initiating the development and review of strategic plans in line with NLGFC institutional mandate
5. Preparing projects for inclusion in the Public Sector Investment Plan
6. Compiling and consolidating reports  

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Planning Officer shall report to the Senior Planning Officer

 

Qualification:  Bachelor’s Degree in Economics

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years’ experience working as an Economist, or in project management.
• Experience in donor funded projects
• Knowledge in Strategic Planning process will be an added advantage.
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities and meet deadlines
• Computer literacy/proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications (i.e. MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access).
• Proficient in written and verbal communication
• Excellent ability to prepare relevant reports and documents.
• Excellent supervision/monitoring, organizational/interpersonal skills
• Team player and ability to work with minimum supervision.
• Attention to detail and creative problem-solving abilities

 

Employment period for the post:  One (1) year contract

 

8. COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH OFFICER (GRADE M4)                   

Job Function:  The Communication and Outreach Officer shall be responsible for developing and implementing NLGFC’s Communication Plan and promotional strategies for all programs/projects in the institution including developing publications, reports and materials for stakeholders.             

      

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Coordinate and contribute to the development of strategic and operational media/visibility/promotion/advocacy in close cooperation with NLGFC communications team
2. Handle external communication in different media and channels including web page and social media communication.
3. Establish and maintain relevant contacts with media/decision makers and networks
4. Monitor institutional and project related messaging
5. Formulate messages and produce materials on the web as well as for media/advocacy issues
6. Facilitate information preparation for visits of delegations
7. Liaise with project teams to increase visibility of the projects at community, district and national levels
8. Ensure programme results are appropriately communicated among beneficiaries and target audiences to help spread positive news while maintaining programme integrity.
9. Monitor press coverage of NLGFC and specific programme/project efforts and author reports and social media posts on programme/project successes and general institutional achievements
10. Conduct communication and civic awareness campaigns
11. Prepare relevant ad hoc and period reports

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Communication and Outreach Officer shall report to the Knowledge Management and Communications Specialist

 

Qualification:  Bachelor’s Degree Mass Communication, Education (Humanities/Arts), Public Relations, Journalism.

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years’ professional experience in communication, media and/or public relations, preferably in a project setting.
• Excellent knowledge in communication techniques tools, methods, channels etc.
• Good ability to express oneself orally and in writing
• Demonstrated ability with social media marketing and promotional strategies
• Good researcher
• Excellent interpersonal skills
• Knowledge of layout and design for print and web-based promotional materials
• Ability to work under pressure, organize work assignments, set priorities and meet deadlines.
• Ability to act in a tactful and diplomatic manner and work on sensitive issues with diverse groups of individuals
• Some knowledge of both the production and post-production aspects of the moviemaking process
• Solid computer skills (Microsoft Office Suite, Adobe Creative Suite, HTML)

 

Employment period for the post:  - One (1) year contract

 

9. BUDGET ANALYST – 2NO. (GRADE M4)

 

Job Function: The Budget Analyst shall facilitate budget preparation, consolidation and monitoring budget performance in local authorities

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities:

1. Facilitating LA budget formulation, consolidating and budget monitoring
2. Processing allocation of funds to local authorities
3. Updating indicators used in formulating the Inter-governmental Fiscal Transfer Formula
4. Facilitating the formulation and implementation of Revenue Enhancement Strategic Plans for Local Authorities
5. Analyzing Local Authority revenue collection position and advising Commission and LAs accordingly
6. Facilitating fiscal decentralization initiatives
7. Providing budget related support services to LAs
8. Facilitate LAs financial resource mobilization

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Budget Analyst shall report to the Senior Budget Analyst

 

Qualification:  Bachelor’s Degree in Economics. Those with Master’s Degree will have an added advantage.

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Three (3) years’ of relevant experience in a similar position
• Proficient in computer packages especially data analysis
• Excellent command in both oral and written communication
• Ability to work under pressure, set priorities and meet deadlines
• Demonstrated excellent facilitation skills
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.

 

Employment period for the posts:  One (1) year contract

 

10. RECEPTIONIST – 2No. (GRADE M8)

 

Job Function: To provide professional frontline customer care services and operate a modern PBX machine.

 

Key Roles and Responsibilities

1. Attending to visitors, providing initial answers to their queries
2. Registering and directing visitors to relevant offices
3. Receiving and signing for mail, packages and messages that are hand delivered to the NLGFC.
4. Answering and redirecting incoming and outgoing telephone calls and keeping updated records of all outgoing calls
5. Ensuring proper functionality of the PBX machine and reporting faults to superiors
6. Support in Management of office security by ensuring safety procedures and controlling access via the reception desk (issue visitor badges)
7. Assist in Managing the NLGFC telecommunications system.
8. Performing other clerical duties such as filing, photocopying, and binding
9. Keep updated petty cash records of the Division
10. Providing Support on administrative issues across the HR and Administration Division.
11. Ensuring the reception area is tidy and presentable, with all necessary accessories

 

Competences and Person Specifications (Knowledge, Skills and Experience)

• Two (2) years proven experience on the job
• Ability to operate modern PBX and keeping relevant records
• Proven work experience as a Receptionist or related functions
• Being the first point of contact to the institution, the Receptionist shall be of pleasant personality, ethical with customer service attitude
• Knowledge in computer applications (Ms Office) an added advantage
• Self-motivated, high level of integrity/confidentiality, result oriented, driver for excellence and creativity.
• Professional attitude and Excellent organizational skills
• Proficient in verbal communication skills
• Resourceful with stress management skills and proactive in handling issues
• The job is multitasking and requires ability to deal with emergencies and to prioritize tasks
• Able to demonstrate strong ethical standards and team player

 

Reporting Requirements:  The Receptionist shall report to the Administrative Officer

 

Qualification: Malawi School Certificate of Education (MSCE)

 

Employment period for the positions of Receptionist:  Permanent terms

 

Salary Scales for all the vacant posts: except for the position of Project Coordinator, Government salary scales for the National Local Government Finance Committee relevant to the respective Grades shall apply

National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC) is committed to diversify Gender equality in its operations and strongly encourage women to apply for the above vacant positions.

Interested applicants who meet the above requirements should submit application letters together with concise Curriculum Vitae (CV), National ID and copies of relevant certificates to the address below not later than Tuesday 6^th October, 2020.

 

The Executive Director

National Local Government Finance Committee (NLGFC)

Red Cross House, Area 14

P/Bag 352

Capital City

Lilongwe 3

 

Please indicate the post being applied for on the envelope.

Applicants who fully meet the above requirements and are considered for further assessment shall be acknowledged.

 

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