Project Manager

Job Context

• Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) started its journey in 1988 with a noble vision to stand in solidarity with the poor and marginalized. Being a peoples` centered organization, ESDO envisioned for a society which will be free from inequality and injustice, a society where no child will cry from hunger and no life will be ruined by poverty. Near about three decades of relentless efforts to make this happen, ESDO has embraced new grounds and opened up new horizons to help the disadvantaged and vulnerable people to bring meaningful and lasting changes in their lives. During this long span, ESDO has adapted with the changing situation and provided the most time-bound services especially for the poor and disadvantaged. A community focused and people centered approach has been adapted by ESDO while consideration was given to the national policy and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as its guiding principle. ESDO is one of the most dynamic organizations expanding its development interventions across 422 upazilas under 56 districts of Bangladesh covering over 10 million poor and vulnerable people.

• The International Labour Organization (ILO), with funding from FCDO/IOM, is implementing the pilot project “Production and Marketing of Eco-friendly Handicrafts and Toys” within the Humanitarian-Development-Peace Nexus in Cox’s Bazar. The project aims to enhance skills, generate income, and foster social cohesion for 400 Rohingya refugee and host community artisans, primarily women, by developing a sustainable, market-driven value chain for eco-friendly products. The project is jointly implemented by Eco-Social Development Organization (ESDO) and Light of Hope Ltd. We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Project Manager to lead the successful implementation of this initiative.

Reporting to: Head of KM and PDQ (Focal Person – Rohingya Response)

Job Responsibilities:

A. Strategic Leadership and Management:

• Provide overall strategic direction, planning, and day-to-day management of the project.

• Develop detailed work plans, budgets, and monitoring frameworks in coordination with ESDO and Light of Hope.

• Ensure the project is implemented on time, within scope, and on budget, achieving all expected results.

B. Implementation and Coordination:

• Oversee the establishment and operation of four (4) community-based production centres (two in Rohingya camps, two in host communities).

• Lead the coordination of all training activities for 400 artisans, including master trainers, senior, and junior artisans, ensuring content is market-oriented and of high quality.

• Facilitate collaboration between ESDO (field implementation, logistics) and Light of Hope (product design, quality control, market linkage) to ensure seamless integration of activities.

C. Quality Assurance, Monitoring, and Reporting:

• Oversee the development and implementation of a robust Quality Control (QC) system for all products.

• Manage the project’s comprehensive Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) system.

• Prepare and submit high-quality progress reports, financial updates, and final reports to ILO and partners as required.

D. Market Linkage and Private Sector Engagement:

• Work closely with Light of Hope to execute the branding, marketing, and sales strategy.

• Facilitate the development of formal agreements with private sector actors, retailers, and tourism networks.

• Oversee market promotion activities, including field campaigns, digital promotion, and installation of retail kiosks.

E. Stakeholder Engagement and Communication:

• Serve as the primary project representative to ILO, IOM, government authorities, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

• Ensure effective communication and coordination through regular meetings and updates.

• Uphold the principles of Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) and ensure community feedback is integrated.

F. Risk Management and Sustainability:

• Proactively identify project risks (operational, financial, social, regulatory) and implement mitigation strategies.

• Lead the development of the project’s sustainability and exit strategy, focusing on building the capacity of artisan groups and strengthening local market linkages.

Contract Duration: (5.5 months) May have the possibility to extend based on Donor confirmation)