Job description
JOB TITLE: Program Director
REPORTS TO: US Country Director
Summary Description:
Women for Afghan Women (WAW) is a grassroots, civil society organization dedicated to securing and protecting the rights of disenfranchised Afghan women and girls in Afghanistan and the US, particularly their rights to develop their individual potential, to self-determination, and to be represented in all areas of life: political, social, cultural, and economic. WAW advocates for women’s rights and challenges the norms that underpin gender-based violence wherever opportunities arise to influence attitudes and bring about change.
The Program Director develops and oversees programs and activities at WAW’s Virginia Community Center (VACC). With a special focus on operations and in partnership with the US Country Director. This role will oversee the implementation of programs, ensuring they are true to WAW’s mission.
The Program Director has exceptional interpersonal skills and contributes to an organizational culture of learning, mutual accountability, respect, collaboration, and results. The Program Director plays a vital and visible role in the Afghan women’s rights movement, serving as a leader and advocate and framing key issues affecting Afghan women's agency and well-being.
Location: Alexandria, Virginia
Job Type: Full-time, In-person (Some evenings and weekends may be required.)
Responsibilities:
Program Development & Oversight:
Develop, oversee, and evaluate programs and services at VACC, ensuring that all programs are impactful, culturally relevant, and aligned with WAW’s mission. Lead the design and innovation of new programs to meet the evolving needs of Afghan women and families in Virginia.
Government Contract Management:
Manage government-funded programs and ensure compliance with contract terms, including timely reporting, budget management, and alignment with grant objectives. Familiarity with government contracts, regulations, and reporting processes is essential.
Reporting & Evaluation:
Provide monthly narrative and quantitative reports to the U.S. Country Director. Use both qualitative and quantitative data to assess program effectiveness and impact, ensuring continuous improvement and accountability.
Budget Development & Management:
Work closely with the U.S. Country Director to develop and manage program budgets, ensuring that spending aligns with available funding and supports program goals. Ensure timely and appropriate spending in accordance with grant and contract requirements.
Leadership & Team Development:
Lead, mentor, and support the VACC program team. Conduct regular performance reviews, provide training and development opportunities, and create a positive, collaborative work environment.
Stakeholder Relations:
Represent WAW in meetings with key stakeholders in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, in collaboration with the U.S. Country Director and Development Team. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, community leaders, and partner organizations to expand WAW’s network.
Advocacy & Representation:
Advocate for Afghan women’s rights by representing WAW at public events, conferences, and community meetings. Ensure that WAW’s advocacy messages are rooted in our programs and aligned with our mission.
Team Culture & Leadership:
Foster a positive, inclusive, supportive, and collaborative team culture. Lead by example to create an environment where staff feel supported, valued, and motivated. Encourage open communication, creative problem-solving, and mutual respect. Provide regular feedback, coaching, and team-building activities to strengthen team morale and cohesion.
Recruitment & Staff Management:
Participate in recruitment for open positions, in collaboration with the HR Officer and the US Country Director. Ensure that staff are motivated, engaged, and supported in meeting program and grant objectives.
Qualifications
Educational Background:
- A Bachelor’s degree in a related field such as Nonprofit Management, Public Administration, Social Work, International Relations, or a similar area. A Master’s degree is a plus.
Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of experience in program design, management, and oversight. Experience with government-funded programs is a plus.
- Minimum 3 years of experience in leadership or management roles, particularly in the nonprofit or advocacy sectors. Experience working with Afghan or immigrant populations is a plus.
- Strong understanding of government contracts and compliance requirements, with the ability to manage reporting, budget tracking, and stakeholder communication.
Program Design & Development:
- Proven ability to design and innovate effective programs that meet community needs. Experience in developing culturally relevant and creative programming for marginalized groups, particularly women and girls.
Knowledge of the VA Community:
- Strong knowledge of the Virginia community, including local resources, challenges, and opportunities for Afghan immigrants and refugees.
Tech-Savvy & Resourceful:
- Tech-savvy with the ability to leverage digital tools for project management, communication, and reporting. Comfortable with software such as Microsoft Office, Google Suite, and program and client management platforms (e.g., Bonterra, Slack, etc.).
- Resourceful in finding solutions to challenges, using available technology, networks, and creative approaches to maximize program impact and efficiency.
Skills & Competencies:
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build relationships with diverse groups, including staff, community members, and external stakeholders.
- Demonstrated commitment to human rights and the empowerment of women and girls.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and maintain a high level of organization and attention to detail.
Cultural Competency:
- Strong understanding of and sensitivity to the cultural needs and challenges of Afghan women and families, especially those living in the diaspora.
Benefits:
- 403(b) matching
- Dental insurance
- Employee assistance program
- Health insurance
- Life insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
To apply, please email your cover letter and resume. Please type “Program Director (VA) – (your last name)” in the subject line and apply at your earliest convenience, as we are looking to hire as soon as possible.
Women for Afghan Women is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We value a diverse workforce and inclusive workplace. We consider all applicants without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, disability, socioeconomic status, marital or veteran status, pregnancy status or sexual orientation.