PROJECT DEVELOPMENT VOLUNTEER (PDV) – KENYA

PROJECT DEVELOPMENT VOLUNTEER (PDV) – KENYA

Company Overview:

For over 30 years, Acted, an international NGO, has been dedicated to saving lives in hard-to-reach areas across 43 countries. With a triple mandate as a humanitarian, environmental, and development aid actor, Acted aims for a “3ZERO” world: Zero Exclusion, Zero Carbon, Zero Poverty. Acted Kenya, operational since 2006, focuses on supporting communities in Kenya affected by drought, providing access to food, livelihood protection, sanitation, and clean water while promoting social cohesion and integration.

Job Title: Project Development Volunteer (PDV)

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Duration: 6 Months (May/June 2024)

About the Role:

As a Project Development Volunteer (PDV) with Acted Kenya, you will play a vital role in ensuring effective grant management, facilitating internal coordination, and contributing to the organization’s external communication and fundraising efforts. This volunteer position requires someone with excellent communication skills, a strong grasp of project management principles, and a commitment to Acted’s mission.

Key Responsibilities:

Grant Management:

• Oversee contract follow-up to ensure compliance with donor regulations.
• Prepare qualitative project progress reports.
• Maintain communication with partners involved in project implementation.

Internal Coordination:

• Facilitate smooth internal communication and coordination among relevant departments.
• Maintain organized filing systems to ensure easy access to project documentation.

External Communication:

• Support Acted’s external communication strategy.
• Foster positive relationships with external stakeholders.

Fundraising:

• Contribute to proposal development aligned with Acted’s global and in-country program strategy.
• Assist in contract negotiations with donors.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Master’s degree in International Relations, Development, or Political Science.
• Previous experience in proposal writing and reporting.
• Familiarity with the project cycle.
• Exceptional writing and communication abilities.
• Strong multitasking skills and ability to work well under pressure.
• Team player with the ability to collaborate with diverse profiles.

Conditions:

• Status: Volunteer
• Living allowance: 300 USD per month
• Coverage of accommodation, food, and travel expenses, with a luggage allowance of 50 kg.
• Provision of medical, repatriation, and life insurance.
• One-week pre-departure training, including in situ security training.
• Access to psychological assistance.

How to Apply:

To apply for the position, please email your CV and a letter of motivation to jobs@acted.org, indicating the reference: PDV/KEN. Acted does not charge any fees for the recruitment process.

Sample Cover Letter for a Project Development Volunteer Position:

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am writing to express my enthusiasm for the Project Development Volunteer (PDV) position at Acted Kenya, as advertised. With a strong background in International Development and a passion for humanitarian work, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to Acted’s impactful projects aimed at promoting social cohesion and addressing poverty in Kenya.

As a recent graduate with a Master’s degree in International Development from [University Name], I have gained valuable knowledge and skills in project management, proposal writing, and donor relations. During my academic studies, I had the opportunity to intern with [Organization Name], where I assisted in the development of project proposals and conducted research on sustainable development initiatives.

I am particularly drawn to Acted’s commitment to creating a “3ZERO” world and its holistic approach to addressing the complex challenges faced by communities in Kenya. I am eager to contribute to Acted’s mission by supporting grant management, facilitating internal coordination, and assisting with fundraising efforts.

My experience in project management and my ability to work effectively in multicultural environments make me a strong candidate for the PDV position. I am highly organized, detail-oriented, and capable of managing multiple tasks simultaneously. Moreover, my excellent communication skills enable me to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders and convey complex ideas clearly and concisely.

I am excited about the opportunity to learn and grow professionally within Acted’s dynamic and collaborative work environment. I am confident that my passion for development work, coupled with my academic background and practical experience, make me a valuable asset to your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I am eager to further discuss how my skills and experiences align with the needs of Acted Kenya. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to Acted’s impactful projects and making a difference in the lives of vulnerable communities.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]

How to Be a Successful Applicant for the Project Development Volunteer Role:

1. Tailor your application to highlight your relevant experience in project management and proposal writing.
2. Showcase your understanding of Acted’s mission and values in your cover letter.
3. Demonstrate strong communication skills and attention to detail in your application materials.
4. Emphasize your ability to work effectively in a team and manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
5. Research Acted’s current projects in Kenya and align your application with the organization’s goals.
6. Be proactive in seeking feedback and clarifications during the application process.
7. Highlight any cross-cultural experiences or language skills that may be beneficial for the role.
8. Prepare examples of past achievements related to grant management and fundraising.
9. Follow up on your application to express continued interest and enthusiasm for the position.
10. Stay updated on industry trends and developments in humanitarian aid and development.

Possible Project Development Volunteer Interview Questions With Answers:

1. Question: Can you tell us about your experience with grant management and reporting? Answer: Certainly. In my previous role at [Previous Organization], I was responsible for managing grants from various donors, ensuring compliance with their regulations, and preparing detailed progress reports. For example, I oversaw a project funded by [Donor Name], where I maintained regular communication with the donor, tracked project expenses, and submitted comprehensive reports on project outcomes.
2. Question: How do you prioritize tasks and manage multiple projects simultaneously? Answer: Prioritizing tasks and managing multiple projects effectively require strong organizational skills and the ability to adapt to changing priorities. In my experience, I utilize tools such as project management software to create timelines, set deadlines, and allocate resources efficiently. I also maintain open communication with team members to ensure everyone is aligned with project objectives and timelines.
3. Question: Can you provide an example of a successful fundraising effort you were involved in? Answer: Certainly. In my previous role, I collaborated with the fundraising team to develop a proposal for a new project focused on [specific area]. Through extensive research and coordination with stakeholders, we were able to secure funding from [Donor Organization] to implement the project. This experience taught me the importance of strategic planning, effective communication, and building strong relationships with donors.
4. Question: How do you approach building relationships with external partners and stakeholders? Answer: Building relationships with external partners and stakeholders is crucial for the success of any project. I believe in establishing open and transparent communication channels, actively listening to their needs and concerns, and finding common ground for collaboration. For example, in my previous role, I organized regular meetings and workshops with community leaders and local organizations to foster trust and collaboration.
5. Question: How do you ensure that project proposals are aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives? Answer: When developing project proposals, I always start by thoroughly researching the organization’s strategic objectives and priorities. I ensure that the proposed project addresses key areas of focus and contributes to the overall mission of the organization. Additionally, I collaborate closely with relevant stakeholders to gather input and feedback, ensuring that the proposal reflects a shared vision and commitment to success.
6. Question: Can you describe a time when you had to navigate a challenging situation while working on a project? Answer: Certainly. In a previous project, we encountered unexpected delays due to logistical issues and unforeseen circumstances. To address the challenge, I took a proactive approach by identifying alternative solutions, reallocating resources, and communicating transparently with stakeholders about the situation. By remaining adaptable and resilient, we were able to overcome the challenge and successfully deliver the project outcomes.
7. Question: How do you stay updated on industry trends and best practices in project management? Answer: I believe in the importance of continuous learning and professional development. I regularly attend workshops, webinars, and conferences related to project management and development. Additionally, I actively seek out opportunities to network with professionals in the field, engage in online forums, and stay informed about emerging trends and best practices.
8. Question: What motivates you to work in the humanitarian and development sector? Answer: I am deeply passionate about making a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable communities and contributing to sustainable development. I believe that everyone deserves access to basic necessities such as food, water, and education, and I am driven by the opportunity to work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
9. Question: How do you handle constructive feedback from colleagues or supervisors? Answer: I welcome constructive feedback as an opportunity for growth and improvement. I actively seek out feedback from colleagues and supervisors, and I am receptive to their input and suggestions. I believe that feedback helps me identify areas for development and refine my skills, ultimately leading to better outcomes for the projects I am involved in.
10. Question: Can you describe a time when you had to work collaboratively with a diverse team to achieve a common goal? Answer: Certainly. In a previous project, I worked with a team composed of members from different cultural backgrounds and areas of expertise. Despite our diverse perspectives and approaches, we were able to collaborate effectively by fostering open communication, respecting each other’s contributions, and leveraging our unique strengths to achieve our shared objectives. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of diversity and teamwork in driving successful outcomes.

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We wish you the best in your application process. Acted is committed to attracting and retaining the best employees from all backgrounds without charging any application/recruitment fees, whether refundable or not.