Functional Project Manager

The organisation is a global healthcare provider and leading advocate for sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR). Founded in 1952 by a pioneering group of women, the organisation now operates in 146 countries through 150 Member Associations and Collaborative Partners. Their work includes comprehensive sex education, access to contraception, safe abortion and maternal care, and humanitarian crisis response. They are committed to providing integrated healthcare and advocating for SRHR, ensuring access for all, regardless of race, gender, income, or location. The organisations global secretariat is headquartered in London, with offices in Geneva, New York, Canberra, and regional hubs across Africa, the Arab World, the Americas, Europe, South Asia, and East Southeast Asia.

About the Role

A project management consultant is being sought to oversee the successful implementation of cloud-based software applications, such as a Unique Identification Number (UIN) code structure and system for all affiliates and partners. This initiative aims to streamline data management systems by ensuring that all affiliates and partners are uniquely identified across all databases and platforms. The UIN will function as a cloud-based application that integrates data management systems as outlined below.

Following the implementation of the UIN, a Middleware project will be introduced to enable single sign-on with identity and access management across applications.

The consultant will be responsible for ensuring timely delivery, quality execution, and adherence to the budget. Key responsibilities include conducting stakeholder needs assessments, synthesizing requirements, designing a standardized approach, integrating the system with existing workflows, facilitating user acceptance testing, conducting training for super users and system users, and managing internal and external communications, including periodic updates.

Strong collaboration with stakeholders and excellent communication skills will be essential for the successful execution of this initiative.

Roles and Responsibilities

The consultant will collaborate closely with stakeholders to translate initial concept documents into a clear, actionable project vision and roadmap. Key responsibilities include:

1. Project Management

• Understand the needs and requirements from internal stakeholders and use the data to define the projects scope.
• Identify resource requirements and develop budgets for approval.
• Establish and engage internal working groups to enhance project delivery.
• Coordinate internal and external resources, ensuring effective collaboration.
• Develop and roll out communication plans, including periodic status updates.
• Ensure seamless handover of the configured solution, including knowledge transfer.
• Serve as the focal point for project execution and escalation before go-live.
• Identify potential risks, implement mitigation strategies, and oversee risk management throughout the project lifecycle.
• Deliverables and Timelines: The solutions (UIN and Middleware) are expected to be rolled out within twelve months. The consultant will oversee the project until completion, ensuring:
  • A detailed work plan and budget at the projects start.
  • Monthly progress reports, tracking timelines and timesheets.
  • Additional reports/notes as required for project implementation.

2. Solution Design

• Understand and refine the conceptual design of the solution.
• Conduct a needs assessment, ensuring integration with existing systems.
• Develop a step-by-step, end-to-end process for UIN and Middleware solutions.

3. Solution Testing and Deployment

• Assess system efficiency and refine based on user feedback.
• Lead sandbox testing to validate system functionalities.
• Oversee migration to the production environment.
• Conduct User Acceptance Testing (UAT) and address identified gaps.
• Monitor performance metrics post-implementation to ensure effectiveness.

4. Vendor Onboarding and Performance Management

• Coordinate the Expression of Interest (EOI) process to refine project requirements.
• Manage the bid process, including designing the scope, reviewing proposals, and supporting evaluation.
• Negotiate pricing under procurement committee guidance.
• Onboard and oversee the performance of selected vendors.

5. Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration

• Work with IT teams and third-party vendors to finalize deployment models and integrations.
• Ensure alignment with security protocols.
• Foster positive relationships within and outside the organization.

Selection Criteria

Educational Qualifications Experience

• 8-10 years of experience in the relevant field.
• MTech, BTech, BCA, MCA, or any other relevant technical degree.

Technical Skill Sets

The evaluation of the consultant/consulting firms technical bid will be based on the following:

• Experience managing large-scale transformation and financial system projects with successful outcomes.
• Proven expertise in project management, particularly in IT solution implementation.
• Knowledge of financial and compliance frameworks.
• Demonstrated ability in handling large-scale IT transformation projects.
• Experience implementing complex IT solutions, preferably in charities or large government organizations.

Soft Skills

• Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Analytical and quantitative mindset with excellent project management capabilities.
• Advanced IT proficiency (Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Visio, databases, etc.).
• Fluent in English (oral and written); knowledge of French, Spanish, or Arabic is an advantage.
• Excellent people management, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Ability to train staff and simplify complex financial information for non-financial personnel.
• Strong time management and organizational skills to handle multiple tasks and meet tight deadlines.