Organizational Profile
Mujejeguwa-Loka Women Development Association (MLWDA) is a pioneering, women-led Ethiopian charity legally registered with the Ministry of Justice in 2002. Founded in 1996, MLWDA began as a grassroots initiative to address the critical health needs of Gumuz women in Benishangul-Gumuz Regional State, challenging harmful cultural practices such as giving birth in forests.
Today, MLWDA has grown into a leading non-religious and non-political nonprofit organization, working to advance women’s rights, gender equality, and eliminate gender-based violence (GBV), particularly in the Benishangul-Gumuz and Amhara regions.
For nearly three decades, MLWDA has worked to create a safe and empowering environment for women and girls—free from violence and discrimination—through community-led programs, advocacy, legal reforms, and sustainable development initiatives. The organization operates with a team of 67 professionals, including social workers, nurses, counselors, and program coordinators, making an impact from national to grassroots levels.
Open Positions:
01. Program Coordinator
- Location: Addis Ababa (with frequent travel to project field locations)
- Deadline: July 30, 2025
Job Summary
The Program Coordinator will play a critical leadership role in planning, managing, coordinating, and monitoring MLWDA’s programs. This position requires strong organizational skills, strategic thinking, and experience in multi-sector program management, particularly in gender, development, and GBV-related areas.
Major Responsibilities
Planning and Coordination
- Organize, lead, and supervise the planning and coordination activities of the organization.
- Conduct needs and resource assessments; develop baselines for project planning.
- Develop strategic plans for innovative programming aligned with MLWDA’s five-year plan and project proposals.
- Consolidate inputs and progress reports from project and liaison office teams.
- Strengthen MLWDA’s documentation and information systems.
Program & Project Management
- Coordinate and ensure timely preparation of project proposals, annual and quarterly plans, and technical and financial reports in collaboration with finance, logistics, and project staff.
- Liaise with government and partner organizations to gather timely information for program design and review.
- Facilitate communication and coordination with MLWDA representatives at regional and local levels.
- Present program performance and findings at internal and external meetings, workshops, and conferences.
Reporting & Representation
- Prepare and submit monthly and quarterly reports to the Executive Director.
- Represent MLWDA at planning and coordination forums, as needed.
- Perform other responsibilities as assigned by the Executive Director.
Specific Duties
- Draft and submit funding proposals and technical reports to donors.
- Serve as the key liaison between MLWDA and major stakeholders.
- Promote teamwork and collaboration across MLWDA teams.
- Maintain proper documentation and filing systems for all relevant program materials.
- Participate in project meetings to inform leadership on project progress and key challenges.
- Provide technical support for the implementation of gender-based violence and related projects.
- Oversee and support development of educational and awareness-raising materials.
About You
- MA/MSc in Economics, Agricultural Economics, Development Studies, Sociology, or other related social science fields.
- Or BA/BSc in the above fields with 5+ years of relevant professional experience.
- Strong program coordination, documentation, and communication skills.
- Experience working with NGOs, donors, and local government stakeholders preferred.
Salary: Based on the organization’s scale and candidate experience.
- Time management
- Analytical skills
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Leadership
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
Cover Letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your experience and motivation for the role.
Detailed CV including three professional references.
- Email applications to: mlwdawomen@gmail.com.
- Subject Line: “Application for Program Coordinator – MLWDA”
- Deadline: July 30, 2025 (Applications open from July 15, 2025)
02. Executive Director
- Location: Addis Ababa
- Deadline: July 23, 2025
1. Job Summary
The Executive Director serves as the Chief Executive Officer of MLWDA and is responsible for providing strategic leadership, operational management, and organizational representation. Working under the direction of the Board of Governors, the Executive Director leads the planning, implementation, and monitoring of programs, ensures financial sustainability, promotes institutional development, and upholds the values and mission of MLWDA to empower women and marginalized communities.
2. Key Duties and Responsibilities
2.1. Strategic Leadership and Governance
Act as the chief executive responsible for managing the overall operations and affairs of MLWDA. Provide strategic direction aligned with the organization’s mission and Board guidance. Formulate, implement, and evaluate policies, strategies, and systems to achieve organizational goals.
2.2. Organizational Management
Plan, organize, direct, and coordinate MLWDA programs and activities for maximum effectiveness and efficiency. Develop and oversee the implementation of short-term and long-term plans for relief, rehabilitation, development, and women’s empowerment programs. Ensure adherence to organizational policies, procedures, and ethical standards.
2.3. Financial and Administrative Oversight
Develop and manage the annual budget and work plans in consultation with the Board. Ensure the proper utilization of resources through effective financial and operational controls. Approve and authorize expenditures in line with approved budgets and policies. Maintain sound financial management systems, ensuring compliance with donor, government, and audit requirements.
2.4. Fundraising and Partnership Development
Lead and coordinate resource mobilization strategies including proposal development and donor engagement. Represent MLWDA in domestic and international forums, partnerships, and advocacy platforms. Build and maintain relationships with government agencies, NGOs, donors, UN and the private sector.
2.5. Reporting and Accountability
Submit timely and accurate financial and narrative reports to the Board of Governors and donors. Ensure transparency and accountability in program implementation and financial management. Oversee monitoring and evaluation activities to track program performance and impact.
2.6. Public Relations and Communication
Serve as the primary spokesperson of MLWDA. Lead communication strategies to enhance the visibility of MLWDA’s work. Engage the public, media, and other stakeholders to promote the organization’s vision.
2.7. Staff Management and Capacity Building
Provide leadership and supervision to senior staff. Promote a culture of teamwork, learning, and accountability. Oversee recruitment, performance management, and staff development.
About You
- A minimum of a BA degree in Development Studies, Gender and Development, Social Work, Sociology, Management, or other relevant fields.
- A Master’s degree (MA/MSc) in the above areas is highly desirable.
Experience
- A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience for BA holders, or 6 years for MA holders, with at least 4 years in a senior management or supervisory role in the NGO or development sector.
- Demonstrated experience in women’s empowerment, community development, or humanitarian programs is an asset.
Skills and Competencies
- Proven leadership, strategic planning, and team management skills.
- Strong financial and grant management abilities.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Knowledge of donor regulations and partnership development.
- Proficiency in computer applications and project management tools.
- Fluency in English and working knowledge of local languages is advantageous.
Personal Attributes
- High integrity and professional ethics
- Commitment to gender equality and women’s rights
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
- Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks
- Visionary and results-oriented
- Time management
- Analytical skills
- Teamwork
- Communication
- Attention to detail
- Problem solving
- Leadership
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
Cover Letter (maximum 1 page) outlining your experience and motivation for the role.
Detailed CV including three professional references.
- Email applications to: mlwdawomen@gmail.com.
- Subject Line: “Application for Program Coordinator – MLWDA”
- Deadline: July 23, 2025
