Job Opening: International Programs Manager

We are enlarging our team and looking for one new colleague to join us at Social Innovation Solutions.

We are a team of 15 professionals with diverse backgrounds brought together by the desire to build and support solutions to social, climate, and business challenges. We are looking for new colleagues with whom to further develop conversations about the future, sustainability, and technology, as well as incubators and accelerators for tomorrow's solutions.

Below, you will find all the important information about the open role and responsibilities of the International Programs Manager for scaling the Sustainability Academy and TRANSFORMATOR Program in Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia as well as building a European footprint of our work.

Deadline: Apply by 14 January 2024, 23:59, filling in the form.

Start date: February 2024

Why work at Social Innovation Solutions? 

Become a part of our growing team, where opportunities are on the rise. In just three years, we've expanded from a team of 3 to a team of 15, providing an environment that thrives on your professional growth.

We cultivate a culture of individual and professional responsibility, embodying our dedication to honesty and reliability as we consistently deliver on our commitments.

  • Flexible Hours: Enjoy the flexibility to adjust your work schedule to better suit your needs and lifestyle, promoting a healthy balance.

  • Inspiring Environment: Work in a dynamic and creative workspace that fosters innovation and encourages your personal and professional growth.

  • Impactful Work: Be part of a team and projects that make a real difference in the world, contributing to positive change and meaningful societal impact.

  • Cultural Organization with Mental Health prioritization: be part of an organization that prioritizes mental health and well-being, offering support to help you maintain your balance.

  • Job Description Customization: you have the opportunity to shape and evolve your job description over time, allowing you to grow and adapt your role as your skills and interests develop.

  • Competitive Compensation Package: Receive a salary along with benefits like a laptop and private health insurance at Regina Maria.

  • Biannual Team Retreats: Enjoy two team getaways annually, one in a European city and another in Romania.

ROLE: INTERNATIONAL PROGRAMS MANAGER

Position: Full-time 

Location: Bucharest (hybrid), office in a central area, possibility to work from home 2-3 days per week

Start date: February 2024

We are searching for an International Programs Manager with an extended interest in project management, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and a keen desire to support and uplift a more sustainable business sector in Romania and CEE. The International Programs Manager will work closely with the SIS President, Executive Director, and Project Managers as well as other team members to assist in developing the educational programs and reaching their key objectives; as well as working with SIS senior leadership in growing the overall European footprint of the organization. 

Programs: Academia de Sustenabilitate (The Sustainability Academy for SMEs) and TRANSFORMATOR

Programs Websites: https://academia-de-sustenabilitate.ro and https://program-transformator.org/

Program Description: Sustainability Academy, a cutting-edge 360 solution hub in Romania committed to nurturing micro-enterprises and SMEs towards more sustainable business practices. Through educational modules, interactive webinars, and a thriving community, we help entrepreneurs evolve their business models for increased long-term profitability and social responsibility.

The platform serves as a guide for entrepreneurs, helping them transform their business models and enhance long-term profitability. It offers relevant and valuable content on sustainability through digital modules, SME solution marketplace, and networking opportunities.

One of the key components of the Sustainability Academy is its focus on education and community. Participants gain access to relevant content that aids in developing skills and knowledge in the field of sustainability, equipping them to overcome current and future challenges.

By being part of the Sustainability Academy, entrepreneurs gain valuable knowledge and have direct networking opportunities within the platform, allowing them to connect with potential business partners, suppliers, and business networks.  

TRANSFORMATOR is an intensive educational program for active SMEs and NGOs, offering a blend of training sessions, workshops, and courses in sustainability. It includes mentorship from over 50 experts and investors, access to self-paced courses, and a bootcamp experience. Participants also benefit from media exposure, promotional support, and personalized sessions with a Personal Advisory Board of experienced professionals, enhancing their growth and sustainability practices.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

Program Implementation and Coordination:

Oversee the rollout of 'Sustainability Academy' and 'Transformator' across Bulgaria, Serbia, and Croatia, ensuring alignment with the SIS vision and objectives.

Coordinate with local teams and partners to ensure effective implementation, adapting the programs to local contexts as needed.

Stakeholder Engagement:

Establish and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including educational institutions, government bodies, and local communities, to support program objectives.

Team Leadership and Development:

Lead and develop regional teams, ensuring they are effectively trained and have the resources to execute their roles successfully.

Budget Management:

Manage the regional budget for both programs, including forecasting, allocation, and monitoring of funds.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

Implement a robust monitoring and evaluation framework to assess program impact and identify areas for improvement.

Reporting:

Regularly report on program progress, challenges, and outcomes to the central management team.

Quality Assurance:

Ensure the quality of program content and delivery meets the organization's standards and objectives.

Risk Management:

Identify potential risks to program delivery and implement strategies to mitigate them.

Cultural Sensitivity:

Ensure that all program activities are culturally sensitive and respectful of local traditions.

Innovation and Adaptation:

Continuously seek innovative ways to enhance program effectiveness and adapt strategies based on feedback and changing needs.

Cross-Regional Collaboration:

Facilitate collaboration and knowledge sharing between the three countries to maximize program impact and efficiency.

 OUR VISION OF THE IDEAL CANDIDATE 

We've sketched out a picture of our 'ideal' candidate, but hey, we get it – people are wonderfully diverse and don't fit into neat little boxes. So, if you're feeling a spark of excitement about this role and think you could be a great fit, please don't hesitate to apply, even if you don't tick every single box. We're all about embracing different journeys and perspectives!

  • The ideal candidate will be a dynamic individual who brings a blend of professional maturity, global perspective, and entrepreneurial spirit.

  • They should be comfortable in leadership roles, demonstrating an ability to motivate and guide teams across different cultural contexts.

  • The candidate should be enthusiastic about traveling and working in diverse environments, showing adaptability and cultural awareness in varied settings.

  • A strong networker, able to build and maintain relationships across a spectrum of stakeholders, from business leaders to sustainability experts.

  • The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and practical implementation skills, with the ability to translate abstract concepts into actionable plans.

  • Given the focus on sustainability, the candidate should have a passion or an interest in environmentally and socially responsible practices, aiming to integrate these values into their work.

  • The position is ideal for someone who is not just looking for a job but a mission-driven career where they can make a tangible difference in the world of sustainable business practices.

  • Skills:

    • Proficient in strategic planning and execution.

    • Possesses cultural intelligence and sensitivity, with an ability to navigate diverse cultural environments effectively.

    • Willingness and availability for international travel.

  • Previous experience:

    • Experience working in dynamic, impact-focused environments

    • Demonstrated international experience, with a preference for candidates who have worked across different countries or in multicultural settings.

  • Personality:

    • Naturally extroverted, with excellent interpersonal skills.

    • Strong networking capabilities, able to leverage relationships for organizational benefit.

  • Knowledge base:

    • Solid understanding of business fundamentals.

    • Basic to intermediate knowledge of sustainability practices and principles.

 Deadline: Apply by 14 January 2024, 23:59 filling in the form.

Ciprian Stanescu