Are You Looking for an Opportunity in the Context of International Cultural Cooperation?

The Goethe-Institut is the cultural institute of the Federal Republic of Germany with global outreach. We promote knowledge of the German language abroad and foster international cultural co-operation. We convey a comprehensive picture of Germany by providing information on Germany's cultural, social and political life. We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community.

The Goethe-Institut Cyprus, with its office in Nicosia has been responsible for the management of the EU scholarship programme for the Turkish Cypriot community since June 2022. The first project contract ends in October 2025, the follow-up contract with a further budget volume of approx. 5 million € ends in November 2027. Since 2007, the EU has granted scholarships to around 2600 Turkish Cypriots to study or train in the European Union. For this programme we are seeking to hire a

Programme Manager - EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish-Cypriot Community

This is a full-time position with a contract duration until November 30, 2027, with a potential contract extension. Ideally the start date would be April 1st, 2025. The project office is located in the northern part of Cyprus, and the Programme Manager should be able to cross the Green Line to perform this role efficiently.

OVERVIEW OF THE ROLE

The Programme Manager will take on the lead role in delivering the EU Scholarship Programme for the Turkish-Cypriot community and will report to the Programme Director as well as liaise with the European Commission Programme Manager on a day-to-day basis, and as required. S/he will be responsible for managing a team of five staff and for working with the key stakeholders continuing the strategic vision for the programme.

In this capacity, the Programme Manager plays a crucial role in maintaining a proactive work environment, creating constant momentum and maintaining focus.

MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES

• Create detailed work plans, manage and quality assure the timely delivery of all programme activities in line with agreed contract, policies and standards throughout the full project cycle
• Ensure the project is managed and delivered in accordance with all subgranting, financial management and procurement standards
• Prepare the agreed narrative and financial interim reports and final reports and devise immaculate documentation records
• Develop and maintain and regularly update a project risk management strategy
• Lead the programme team in line with Goethe-Institut’s policies and standards; oversee the recruitment and performance management of short term staff, experts and consultants
• Ensure the implementation of the monitoring & evaluation strategy as well as the communication and visibility plan
• Manage relations and appropriate liaison and engagement with key project stakeholders including the EU
• Reporting the progress of the programme at regular intervals to the Programme Director, EU and other key stakeholders
• Lead on all internal communication including the backstopping team

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Higher education degree relevant to the position (social sciences, education management, business administration and management, international relations or equivalent).
• Full working proficiency in Turkish and English. Good knowledge of the German language is an asset
• Certified qualification in project management is an asset

ROLE SPECIFIC KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS

• At least three years’ relevant professional experience, with at least three years in management positions including responsibilities for staff
• Proven experience of large-scale programme coordination during all stages of the project cycle including EU projects or other donor-funded international programmes
• Excellent financial management skills
• Track record in managing a diverse team and shaping a cohesive and supportive team environment and leadership experience in projects with a similar scope
• Skills and experience in analysing and resolving complex situations
• Experience of managing consultants and subcontractors in delivering contracts
• Knowledge of coordination of complex stakeholder relationships in politically sensitive contexts
• Excellent communication, negotiations, and presentation skills

DESIRABLE

• Knowledge of the local context of the Turkish-Cypriot community and the education landscape in the northern part of Cyprus
• Knowledge of EU financial regulations, procedures and Pillar Assessed Contribution Agreements (PACA)
• Programme and team leadership experience in the Education sector, preferably with scholarship prorammes in an international or multinational context
• Existing networks with key stakeholders (public and private) in the northern part of Cyprus
• Existing networks with higher education institutions in the EU

WE OFFER:

• An attractive remuneration package
• Flexible working hours, possibility to work remotely on occasion
• A dynamic and motivated work environment

The Goethe-Institut is an equal opportunities employer and supports inclusion. Disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria, will be treated with preference.

Please submit your application (CV, cover letter and salary requirements) in English, highlighting how your skills and experience meet the role profile. Applications are accepted until 10.03.2025 to bewerbungen-nikosia@goethe.de