POSITION PROFILE & ANNOUNCEMENT
COUNTRY DIRECTOR, LIBERIA
EFL Associates
Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
Heart to Heart International invites nominations and applications for the position of Country Director, Liberia (“Director”). Reporting to the Vice President of Operations, the Director will oversee program implementation of the Ebola Treatment Unit in Kakata, Margibi County, Liberia. This opportunity is contingent on the award of the USAID grant supporting the effort.
CULTURE & MISSION
Heart to Heart International (“HHI”) is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3), non-governmental (NGO) health and humanitarian organization that is focused on engaging its staff and volunteers in meaningful service to those in need around the world.
Since its founding in 1992, HHI has delivered medical aid and supplies worth more than $1.2 billion to more than 150 countries, including the United States. HHI responds to crises and natural disasters both domestically and internationally by supplying medical relief and mobilizing volunteers. HHI broadens access to healthcare with medical education opportunities and laboratory standards training around the U.S. and in Haiti, and also works with U.S. safety-net clinics to increase their capacity by providing medical equipment, supplies and volunteers that are vital to operations.
HHI’s core mission is to help meet the needs of those suffering from the effects of natural and man-made disasters and those suffering from poverty, while directly engaging volunteers from all walks of life to find a renewed sense of purpose in their own lives. It is this inclusive invitation to serve the poor that provides a transformational, life-altering experience to not only the people in need, but those volunteers helping to meet the need.
Annually, HHI assists 250 organizations with over $100 million in humanitarian aid and supplies. This level of assistance has created strong partnerships with major Fortune 500 companies and the largest pharmaceutical companies in the world. Named to Forbes magazine’s prestigious list of “America’s 200 Largest Charities,” HHI is also recognized as one of the leaders in donor efficiency and charitable commitment.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
HHI has intentionally maintained a lean and highly efficient organization with 98% of all contributions going directly to relief and development programs. All administrative and fundraising activities are supported by less than 2% of total contributions. According to a recent issue of Charity Navigator, HHI received its highest 4-star rating. This recognition reiterated the fact that HHI operates as a wonderful steward of its charitable donations, freeing close to 100% of monetary and in-kind support toward programmatic efforts. This is a notable achievement.
This is most evident in the work HHI carries out in the face of natural disasters – supplying medical supplies, pharmaceuticals, equipment and medical teams of doctors, nurses and willing volunteers. Since 1992, more than $1 billion of aid and supplies have been delivered to over 150 countries, including the United States. HHI responds to both domestic and international disasters, the organization mobilizes volunteers with resources to improve local communities. With the support of volunteers from corporate, civic, religious groups, schools and universities, communities are served through a variety of manners.
In the past two decades, HHI developed a sterling reputation for expeditious and focused disaster response, while maintaining highly effective humanitarian programs, particularly in Haiti. Processes, operations and financial management systems are constantly fine tuned to keep HHI on a sustainable and stable financial footing.
In February 2014, a rapidly evolving outbreak of Ebola hemorrhagic fever spread across the West African countries of Guinea, Sierra Leone, and Liberia . HHI is working with in country partners in Liberia, one of the most affected countries, to respond to the crisis. To date, HHI has provided multiple shipments of medicines and medical supplies to our partners in West Africa, including personal protective equipment to protect front-line health workers. HHI is now working to open an Ebola Treatment Unit (ETU) in Kakata in Margibi County, Liberia, which will provide direct clinical care for Ebola-infected patients.
For more information on its programs and ways to get involved, visit www.hearttoheart.org and “like” Heart to Heart International on Facebook or follow the organization on Twitter (https://twitter.com/Heart_to_Heart).
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
HISTORY OF HEART TO HEART INTERNATIONAL
At the close of the Cold War, Dr. Gary Morsch, a family physician, and James Kerr, a pharmacist, both from Olathe, Kansas, traveled with several medical professionals to the new Russian Federation to assess the state of patient care in the former Soviet Union. The group witnessed a healthcare system on the brink of collapse. Motivated by this personal experience, Dr. Morsch and Mr. Kerr returned and challenged their local Rotary Club colleagues to help provide medicine and medical supplies to the Russian people.
Local collection drives soon spread. The volunteer group engaged major pharmaceutical companies to join the effort through donations of much-needed products and the U.S. government provided its largest Air Force cargo plane to fly the medical aid to Russia.
On May 22, 1992, the C-5A Galaxy aircraft landed in Moscow, and aid was distributed to 34 hospitals and people in need. A gift from the heart of America to the heart of Russia — The Heart to Heart Airlift — became a reality because committed volunteers and caring corporate partners joined together to help people in need. At the time, it was the largest volunteer airlift in U.S. history, and catapulted this volunteer effort which would become Heart to Heart International onto the world stage.
The spirit behind that first project is still alive and well today at Heart to Heart International. As it works to create healthier communities around the world, HHI is motivated by the same principles that guided that first group of visionaries:
Faith-based values were the motivation behind creating a faith-friendly environment that invites all people to serve the poor and those in need. HHI is a volunteer–centered movement intentionally managed to create a transformational experience for volunteers. The organization is as interested in supporting volunteers to find a renewed sense of purpose in their lives as it is helping those in need and in challenging situations. The volunteer’s experience is at the heart of HHI’s mission, making it notably unique in comparison to other charitable NGO’s. Consistent with the achievement accomplished in the 1992 airlift, HHI accomplishes its mission efficiently and with excellence by being nimble and continually improving. HHI assures that 98% of total contributions go directly to humanitarian programs rather than to administrative overhead by keeping its overhead costs low and processes efficient. The HHI Board of Directors is united around faith friendly organizational values that support growth and development of its staff and fostering transformational experiences for volunteers and those in need.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
HEART TO HEART INTERNATIONAL LEADERSHIP TEAM
Directors: The Heart to Heart Board of Directors is comprised of business and civic leaders with unlimited passion for the Heart to Heart mission. Board members include:
Gary B. Morsch, MD, MPH Chairman, Founder & President) James E. Kerr, Pharmacist Robert J. Lambrechts, J.D., Lathrop & Gage LLP (Vice-Chairman) Arthur Fillmore, J.D., Levy & Craig, P.C. Carla Duryee, Consultant Darrell L. Grace, D.O., Physician/Clinical Professor Howie Fleischer, Renaissance Financial Jon North, Vice President, University Advancement at MidAmerica Nazarene University Richard (Rick) J. Randolph, III, M.D., College Park Family Care Tiffany Woodley, CPA, Woodley Building Maintenance
Leadership:
James Mitchum, Chief Executive Officer Bud Jeffress, Chief Financial Officer Stacy Hanson, Vice President of Resource Development Dan Neal, Vice-President Operations Krystal Barr, Vice-President, Program Administration
COUNTRY DIRECTOR, PRIMARY RESPONSIBILIITES
HHI is now working to open an Ebola Treatment Unit (ETU) in Kaktata, Margibi County, Liberia, which will provide support and and care for Ebola-infected patients. The Country Director will be responsible for overall program management, coordination and communication with Liberian governmental authorities, USAID/OFDA in-country staff, U.S. Military, UN agencies and liaising with donors and other humanitarian agencies. Additionally, s/he will oversee program implementation and will review all reports before submission to USAID/OFDA. This position will be based in Liberia. This opportunity is contingent on the award of the USAID grant supporting the project.
Strategy Development and Implementation Provide leadership in the development and implementation of the ETU. Keep abreast of socio-economic and political changes in the environment and undertake timely strategic review of the Program Strategy. Work with HHI’s headquarters operations and Liberian in-country staff to identify and fulfill staff needs.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
Representation Represent HHI in Liberia and be responsible for the management of in-country relations and interests in dealing with Liberian government, international and local organizations, networks and media. Represent HHI in strategic meetings, conferences, forums and other public events and contribute towards consolidating and raising the profile of HHI. Develop and strengthen relationships with local Liberian organizations and networks and establish national strategic relations and alliances with partners working in common cause. Maintain good partner relations at national and international levels.
Program Development and Management Work closely with the ETU Chief Medical Officer to effectively and safely manage the ETU. Maintain records to document the cost and cost effectiveness of the program. Lead in the development of sound methodological and technical program support. Oversee and coordinate the program portfolio to ensure the highest level of project quality and accountability. Facilitate training, research, and learning of cross-cutting relevance to programs. Coordinate the production of timely, quality program reports in line with USAID/OFDA and donor requirements.
Financial Management Provide oversight to all finance and administrative services in the program. Ensure effective implementation and compliance with HHI finance policies and guidance. Ensure compliance with procedures required by grant or contract agreements. Ensure that adequate internal control mechanisms are in place. Monitor the timely completion of account records and reports. Check and verify all inventories and promote efficient management of organizational assets.
Information, Communication and Learning Ensure that program information is communicated in a coordinated manner both internally and externally. Ensure that all communication infrastructures are set up in the program and smooth information flow is maintained.
Safety and Security of Operations Oversee and assure the security of staff, volunteers and assets. Maintain safe and secure living quarters as needed.
Other Duties As Assigned Manage special projects or initiatives, as assigned by HHI headquarters.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
Represent Heart to Heart International with professionalism in all dealings with staff, volunteers, donors, partners, vendors, etc.
COUNTRY DIRECTOR, EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Minimum Bachelor’s degree in social sciences/development studies, strategic/program management, management studies or other related discipline; Master’s level degree is highly preferred. Minimum of eight (8) years demonstrated working experience in program development, implementation and evaluation; four (4) of which should be at a senior management level. Knowledge and working experience with USAID/OFDA required. At least five years of progressive experience in program management in the INGO sector in Africa (preferably West Africa) with a proven track record as a senior manager and leader, including experience in developing and implementing strategic plans. Proven experience as a representative of a leading organization. Experience with financial management including preparing and managing budgets, banking activities, contracts and negotiations. Experience in developing and managing procurement and logistical procedures and policies. Ability to operate with limited resources and to adapt to different cultures and to rapidly changing circumstances. Strong English language skills, written and verbal.
COUNTRY DIRECTOR, PERSONAL CHARACTERISTICS
Must embody an understanding of and be a publicly visible advocate for the mission and purposes of the organization (e.g., unquestioned commitment). Should possess the character dedicated to providing services to assist victims of disasters and medical crisis. Open to serving as a leader in a faith-friendly organization that is inclusive while celebrating, honoring and respecting individuals from all walks of life. Excellent communicator – formal and informal – ability to create persuasive presentations to individuals, stakeholders, governmental units, foundations, large corporations and faith groups as a powerful advocate to the mission of the organization. Ability to accurately balance important decision making situations – the ability to say no when necessary in order to stay within the strategic scope and the passionate mission of the organization. A strategic thinker - can translate current strategy into a well-thought-out implementation plan.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
Dedicated to diversity - interested in and compassion for international cultures with respect for a wide range of faiths, beliefs, experiences, and ethnically diverse populations. A dynamic, persuasive, engaging, and inspiring personality – combined with a sense of humor. The ability to foster a greater public understanding of, and appreciation for, Heart to Heart International, its history, mission, programs, and people in order to secure strong financial support for annual operations. The background and personal style that will enhance relationships inside and outside the organization. A firm but fair management style that is inclusive and democratic. A strong personal value system that encompasses high integrity, a solid work ethic and strong moral character – one that will stay the course, and will represent Heart to Heart in the international community at large. Strong analytical skills and creative capabilities are required.
COMPENSATION & RELOCATION
This position will be based in Liberia. This opportunity is contingent on the award of the USAID grant supporting the project.
Compensation will be market-based, corresponding to the experience level, credentials, and personal characteristics of the candidate. A full range of employee benefits will be offered to the successful candidate including: a 401(k) program (matching provision); health, life and optional disability insurance; vision and dental coverage.
Reasonable relocation expenses will be reimbursable and tailored to the successful candidate’s needs subject to mutual agreement and available resources.
The Country Director role will receive a salary up to $7,500 per month and there is a possibility we will be able to offer an additional premium for duty in a difficult area. All travel related expenses are covered and we will offer a living allowance based on average costs in Liberia. The term of the assignment corresponds with our mission so we are beginning with a six- month term that is extendable based on where we stand on ETU demand and USAID/OFDA funding.
A Rest and Recreation (R&R) allowance will also be provided to cover transportation and per diem costs during R&R periods. We tentatively plan to provide staff 7 days of rest for every 6 weeks in the field, subject to final determination and operational needs.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
THE LOCATION: KAKATA, MARGIBI COUNTY, LIBERIA
Margibi is a county on the north to central coast of the West African nation of Liberia. One of 15 counties that comprise the first-level of administrative division in the nation, it has four districts. Kakata serves as the capital of the county which measures 2,616 square kilometers. As of the 2008 Census, Kakata had a population of 199,689, making it the sixth most populous county in Liberia.
Kakata (Kak-ah-tah), is located in Kakata District just over the Du River bridge which is bordered with Todee District. It is a transit town at the heart of the historical natural rubber cultivation belt in Liberia. The city is colloquially known as "Kak City".
It is estimated that the city is surrounded by more than one hundred thousand acres of rubber plantations, most of which are now past latex production. Though the Salala Rubber Company and Firestone-Liberia are not far from Kakata, the nearby rubber plantations are mostly privately owned. Morris American Rubber Company (MARCO) and Bright Farm are the two largest, and Liberian-owned plantations, by area around Kakata. Small and medium-holder rubber plantations also dot most of the landscape.
Kakata has many primary and secondary schools. One of the most notable is Booker Washington Institute (BWI), Liberia's premiere vocational high school and technical institution. It also hosts Kakata Rural Teacher Training Institute, KRTTI, which trains Liberian elementary and lower- grade secondary teachers. It has seven Senior High Schools: St. Augustine, Methodist, Pentecostal Conquerors Academy, Kakata Community College, Francis Michell, Lango Lippaye, and BWI. Lango Lippaye is the only Government Senior High School in Margibi County. There are three government junior high schools: the KRTTI Demonstration school, E. J. Yancy, and Lango Lippaye. Students from all over Liberia come to Kakata for studies at these institutions.
C. H. Rennie Hospital in Kakata is headquarters for the Margibi County health team. The Firestone Duside Hospital in Harbel is the nearest referral health care facility.
Kakata has a large daily market in the center of town. Kakata is a meeting point between urban and rural Liberia: Many of Kakata’s inhabitants either travel to Monrovia to bring goods to Kakata to sell, or travel to the rural areas, to bring produce back to Kakata to sell. The primary groups are Kpelle and Bassa, but all the different groups from across Liberia are represented in Kakata.
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Heart to Heart International Position Profile: Country Manager, Liberia
NOMINATION & APPLICATION PROCESS
EFL Associates, an executive search firm, is assisting Heart to Heart International with their search for this important position. All calls and inquiries should be made through the search firm.
Nominations and applications will be held in confidence. Applications should include a letter outlining the applicant’s background and qualifications for the position; curriculum vita/resume; with contact information for five professional references, at least one of which is a direct report, a second a colleague, and a third an individual to whom the applicant has reported directly. Please upload these documents to the “Other Documents” field in the Consensus System (see the link below).
Review of applications will begin immediately and will continue until the position is filled. Submit all applications and supporting materials electronically in the Consensus® Search Support System at: https://highereddecisions.com/efl/emp_apply_login.asp
NON-DISCRIMINATION
Heart to Heart International and EFL Associates firmly support the principle and philosophy of equal opportunity for all qualified individuals, regardless of age, race, color, gender, creed, national origin, disability, marital or veteran status or any other protected category pursuant to applicable federal, state or local law.
EFL ASSOCIATES 11440 Tomahawk Creek Parkway Leawood, KS 66211 Phone: 913.234.1560 FAX: 913.458.5522 www.eflassociates.com
Jason (“Jay”) M. Meschke, President Email: [email protected]
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