Formed in 1947, the Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF Canada) has focused its efforts on advancing self-reliant, member-owned co-operatives on a global scale. The strength of CDF Canada is grounded in its mission – Acting on Co-operative principles, we partner with communities to achieve sustainable economic and social development – and is at the heart of all strategic activities the organization undertakes. Inclusivity is at the heart of what we do! We recognize the immense value that different experiences and perspectives bring our organization.

The Co-operative Development Foundation of Canada (CDF Canada) received a multi-year grant from Global Affairs Canada (GAC). The program, VOICE for Women and Girls, is being implemented in Malawi, Kenya, Ethiopia, and Ghana from 2020 to 2028. The program aims to strengthen the performance of developing country partner organizations to advance gender equality and economic empowerment of 50,000 women and men co-operative members from marginalized communities. VOICE for Women and Girls will harness the knowledge, capacity, and expertise of 245 skilled Canadian volunteers to assist Developing Country Partners (DCP), co-operatives, and credit unions in improving their performance, advocate for gender equality, and implement more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive initiatives of services particularly for women.

The Country Program Officer is a key position within the CDF Canada program team, responsible for supervising volunteers and implementing VOICE for Women and Girls in the country. Reporting to the Regional Coordinator and Program Manager, the officer provides leadership in program implementation, coordination, and performance monitoring. They also manage relationships with partners, volunteers, staff, and beneficiaries, and lead activities for capacity building, compliance, and program monitoring. The successful candidate should be a motivated self-starter, able to work with little supervision, manage teams, and understand beneficiary needs.

·         Minimum of bachelor’s degree and five years of relevant experience.

·         Strong interpersonal, communication and organizational skills.

·         Analytical multi-tasker who consistently meets deadlines.

·         Adapt well to change over the scope of a project or program.

·         Experience in project management, monitoring and evaluation, and business development.

·         Understanding of gender mainstreaming, innovation, and environmental sustainability. Apply project management knowledge regarding development, staffing, budgeting, and scheduling.

·         Knowledge of co-operatives and credit unions is a strong asset.

·         Knowledge of results-based management (RBM) and Global Affairs Canada development programs.

·         Researching grant proposals and funding opportunities.

·         Developing relationships with various community, governmental and other non-profit organizations to raise funds and awareness and build resources.

·         Fluency in English, written and spoken.

·         Knowledge of other regional languages is an advantage.