We are hiring a Deputy Executive Director for a NGO

Job Title: Deputy Executive Director (DED)
Reports to: Executive Director
Duty Station: Head Office (Ntinda)
OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The Deputy Executive Director (DED) serves as the second-in-command and strategic partner to the Executive Director. The DED provides operational and programmatic leadership across all departments to ensure the successful implementation of the organization’s mission, strategic plans, and organizational goals. The DED supports internal capacity building, promotes advocacy innovation, ensures compliance with policy and donor expectations, and represents the organization in high-level engagements when delegated.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategic Leadership & Organizational Development
   • Support the Executive Director in leading the vision, mission, and long-term strategic planning processes of the organization.
   • Drive the operationalization of strategic plans across departments to ensure alignment with the organization’s advocacy, governance, and policy influence goals.
   • Lead the development of annual work plans and performance indicators aligned with the organization’s strategic framework.
   • Monitor departmental performance against agreed targets and KPIs, recommending corrective action where necessary.
2. Governance & Board Liaison
   • Assist the ED in preparing and coordinating Board meetings, including agenda setting, documentation, and follow-up on decisions.
   • Provide strategic input and performance data to the Board as needed.
   • Ensure compliance with Board policies and provide technical support in their development and implementation.
3. Program & Advocacy Oversight
   • Supervise program planning, implementation, and evaluation processes.
   • Oversee the organization’s advocacy portfolio and ensure it reflects evidence-based, people-centered, and context-sensitive approaches.
   • Coordinate learning reviews of past engagements to identify advocacy gaps and future opportunities in areas such as Oil & Gas, Gender, and Governance.
   • Promote adherence to advocacy ethics, protocols, and accountability mechanisms.
4. Operational Management & Compliance
   • Coordinate cross-functional teams to ensure the effective delivery of project activities, including finance, HR, and logistics.
   • Ensure that all organizational operations and systems are efficient, compliant, and aligned with donor requirements and national regulations.
   • Maintain up-to-date risk management frameworks and ensure timely reporting of potential risks to the ED and Board.
5. Resource Mobilization & Donor Engagement
   • Work with the Resource Mobilization team to identify funding opportunities and guide proposal development.
   • Build and sustain strong donor and partner relationships through effective communication, compliance, and reporting.
   • Represent the organization in funding forums, donor visits, and partnership negotiations where delegated.
6. Human Resource & Team Development
   • Promote a high-performance culture and provide direct supervision to the heads of departments.
   • Oversee implementation of the staff appraisal system and ensure staff development plans are in place.
   • Facilitate coaching, mentorship, and capacity-building programs to empower staff.
7. Representation & Public Engagement
   • Represent the organization at key national and international forums, stakeholder meetings, and media engagements as delegated by the ED.
   • Contribute to strategic PR, communication, and advocacy campaigns by speaking at events, publishing, and supporting alliance-building.
   • Ensure the organization’s brand, messaging, and values are consistently represented in all platforms.
   REQUIREMENTS
   • Master’s Degree in Development Studies, Public Policy, Management, or related fields.
   • Minimum of 3 years of progressive leadership experience in an NGO management, advocacy, or governance-related work.
   • Proven record in managing complex programs, organizational development, and stakeholder engagement.
   CORE COMPETENCIES & PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES
   Leadership Orientation – Ability to inspire and coordinate teams toward organizational vision.
   Strategic Thinking – Proactive in setting priorities and aligning resources with impact.
   Decision-Making – Sound judgment, critical thinking, and data-driven decision-making.
   Communication – Strong written and verbal skills for internal and external engagement.
   Team Empowerment – Skilled at coaching, mentoring, and promoting accountability.
   Integrity & Ethics – Demonstrates transparency, fairness, and respect for diversity.
   Adaptability – Thrives in dynamic environments and effectively manages change.
   How to Apply: Interested individuals may send their applications, including application letter, CV in PDF and copies of academic documents to careers@donswift.co.ug
   Application Deadline: 3rd June 2025
   Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.