What's Happening?
Heifer International is actively recruiting for a Project Manager for its PROSPER project in Nepalgunj, Nepal. This role is crucial for leading and coordinating the effective implementation of the PROSPER project, which focuses on regenerative program
models. The Project Manager will be responsible for adaptive management, ensuring cross-functional collaboration and strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including the LAGANI Signature Program team, technical partners, implementing partners, farmer organizations, private sector actors, and government entities. The position requires significant travel, with a minimum of 70% annually, to project sites across Dang, Banke, Bardiya, and Surkhet. Key responsibilities include project setup, planning, implementation, monitoring, evaluation, and feedback processes in line with PMD Pro standards. The manager will also oversee budget management, expenditure tracking, and ensure the achievement of project Key Performance Indicators (KPIs). Heifer Project Nepal emphasizes its commitment to equal opportunity employment, considering all qualified applicants regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability status.
Why It's Important?
This recruitment is important as it signifies Heifer International's continued investment in agricultural development and economic empowerment in Nepal. The PROSPER project aims to strengthen local systems and institutional capacities, promote inclusive market systems and access to finance, and support an enabling policy and regulatory environment. By focusing on these areas, the project seeks to achieve sustainable impact and contribute to the broader objectives of the LAGANI Signature Program. The Project Manager's role in fostering strategic partnerships with diverse actors, including financial institutions and government agencies, is critical for mobilizing resources and scaling project results. The emphasis on financial inclusion, particularly for smallholder farmers, women, and youth, can lead to improved livelihoods and reduced poverty in rural communities. The project's focus on regenerative agriculture also aligns with global efforts to promote sustainable farming practices and address climate change challenges, contributing to long-term food security and environmental resilience.
What's Next?
The selected Project Manager will immediately begin leading the PROSPER project, focusing on establishing and executing project plans, managing budgets, and ensuring the efficient implementation of activities. A key initial step will involve co-developing and periodically updating the project implementation plan with local partners and the LAGANI team. The manager will also prioritize building and managing strategic partnerships with various entities, including banks, insurers, agri-tech and fintech firms, and government agencies, to connect farmers with essential financial services, markets, technology, and support. Furthermore, the role will involve convening stakeholders through local Multi-Stakeholder Platforms to address financial inclusion barriers and promote gender-responsive and climate-intentional solutions. Ongoing responsibilities will include mobilizing public, private, philanthropic, and development resources to scale and sustain project outcomes, as well as developing and updating program manuals and training materials to ensure adherence to Heifer standards and donor requirements.
Beyond the Headlines
Beyond the immediate project goals, the PROSPER project, under the new Project Manager's leadership, has the potential to drive significant systemic changes in Nepal's agricultural sector. By strengthening local systems and institutional capacities, the project can create a more resilient and self-sufficient agricultural economy. The focus on inclusive market systems and access to finance can empower marginalized groups, particularly women and youth, by providing them with the tools and resources needed to participate more fully in economic activities. The project's commitment to an enabling policy and regulatory environment could also influence national agricultural policies, leading to broader reforms that benefit smallholder farmers. The emphasis on digital interventions and agri-tech solutions could accelerate the modernization of farming practices, improving efficiency and productivity. Ultimately, the project aims to foster a sustainable model of development that not only increases income but also enhances food security and environmental stewardship, contributing to long-term societal well-being in Nepal.
