International Project Manager/ Team Leader

Job Description

KEY INFORMATION
Job Title: International Project Manager/ Team Leader 
Sector: Agriculture/ Rural Development 
Position Type (full/part time): Part-time 
Duration/Level of Effort (long/short term): Long term, 28 PMs 
Position Location (e.g. city, country, remote): Remote, with minimum 65% time in-country


SUMMARY OF THE PROJECT
The Rural Resilience and Livelihood Improvement Sector Project (the Project) in Manatuto Municipality, Timor-Leste, aims to enhance the resilience and livelihoods of approximately 46,000 rural residents. The project is financed by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) and implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development and Community Housing (MRDCH). It adopts a community-driven, inclusive development approach to address climate vulnerability, water scarcity, and limited economic opportunities in agriculture-based communities. 

Key Outputs are:

• Institutional Capacity Building: Strengthening the capabilities of farmer groups, communities, and government institutions through participatory planning, climate adaptation strategies, and geospatial tools. 
• Water Infrastructure Development: Construction and upgrading of water supply systems, flood protection, and erosion control infrastructure to ensure year-round water access and disaster risk reduction. 
• Livelihood Diversification: Promotion of climate-resilient agriculture, agroforestry, and market linkages to support income generation, especially for women and vulnerable groups. 

The primary scope of the Project Management Consultant (PMC) is to provide comprehensive technical, managerial, and capacity-building support to the MRDCH for the effective implementation of the Project. The PMC ensures that the project meets its development goals, adheres to ADB and national standards, and delivers sustainable, community-driven outcomes. 


SUMMARY OF THE POSITION
The Project Manager / Team Leader (PM/TL) will serve as the lead international expert responsible for overseeing the implementation of the Project. The PM/TL will ensure that the project is executed in accordance with its objectives, operational policies, and performance standards. He/ she will lead a multidisciplinary team and coordinate with government agencies, development partners, and communities to deliver sustainable, inclusive, and climate-resilient development outcomes. The PM/ TL will be supported by a full-time Deputy PM. 


KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 

1. Strategic Leadership & Oversight

• Lead the planning, execution, and operation of the Project Management Office (PMO) and Project Implementation Units (PIUs). 
• Ensure that all project activities align with the intended objectives and outputs. 

1. Technical Guidance

• Provide technical advice on integrating climate-resilient planning, infrastructure, and livelihood measures into subprojects. 
• Guide the continuous improvement of the community project cycle based on lessons learned. 

1. Project Planning & Coordination

• Prepare and manage annual work plans, budgets, staffing, and procurement strategies. 
• Lead the development and implementation of the project communication plan. 

1. Team Supervision & Performance Management

• Supervise the project team, ensuring high-quality implementation, especially in participatory and gender-inclusive processes. 
• Monitor the delivery of outputs and resolve any implementation challenges. 

1. Compliance & Safeguards

• Ensure full compliance with ADB’s Safeguard Policy Statement (SPS), Environmental and Social Performance (ESP), Community Participation Framework (CPF), and Ethnic Group Development Framework (EGDF). 
• Oversee the disclosure and translation of safeguard documents to beneficiaries. 

1. Capacity Building

• Provide training and technical support to MRDCH staff on ADB policies, procedures, and reporting requirements. 

1. Monitoring & Reporting

• Ensure timely disbursement of project funds and achievement of project milestones. 
• Prepare and submit project reports and communication materials in collaboration with MRDCH and consultants. 

1. Stakeholder Engagement

• Facilitate coordination with government agencies, private sector actors, and development partners. 
• Ensure transparent and effective resolution of disputes and grievances. 

JOB REQUIREMENTS
Education:

• A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in Agriculture, Community and Rural Development, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline is required. 
• A Master’s degree is preferred. 

Minimum Requirements:

• At least 20 years of professional experience, including a minimum of 10 years in developing countries leading multidisciplinary teams. 
• Proven experience in participatory, community-based development projects. 
• Willingness to be based in Timor-Leste for at least 65% of the assignment duration. 

Desired Qualifications:

• Prior experience as a Team Leader on ADB-financed projects. 
• Previous work experience in Timor-Leste. 

Language Proficiency:

• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential. 

APPLICATION PROCESS
Candidates are encouraged to apply by July 15, 2025/as soon as possible.

For your application to be considered, please upload your documents as followed: Candidate Last Name, First Name, date, Title of the Position.

Cowater International is an equal opportunity employer, basing employment on merit and qualifications as they relate to professional experience and position expectations. Cowater does not discriminate against any employee or applicant on the basis of race, religion, sex, gender identity, disability, age, or any other basis protected by law. 
We thank all applicants, however only those shortlisted will be contacted. 

About the Organization

ABOUT US
Founded in 1985, Cowater International is a leading global development consulting company. Headquartered in Ottawa and with corporate hubs in Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Helsinki, London, Madrid, Manila, Nairobi, Singapore and Stockholm, Cowater International has successfully delivered a portfolio of over 2500 projects and assignments in more than 95 countries. We work with governments, private sector actors and communities implementing projects that support socio-economic development, institutional strengthening, environmental improvements and advance equal opportunities for all. We are a diverse and experienced team committed to building a better tomorrow for the people we serve. Our adaptive approach to management has led to our yearly award-winning work and recognition as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies since 2017. 

We thank you for your interest in building a better tomorrow.