Job Title: Project Officer

Department: Programs

Reporting To: Program Manager

Qualification: Bachelor/NHD

Location: Jos, Nigeria

Contract Type: 6 months temporary contract

Closing Date: 31st May 2023

Background:

The Custodians of African Literature (COAL) is a youth-led nonprofit that empowers children and young people in marginalized African communities to contribute actively to their education and literary development. COAL over the years has worked to bridge the education inequality gap through access to alternative youth development programming that promotes literacy, civic education, socio-cultural exchanges, peacebuilding and gender equality. 

We believe that being able to read and write is the first step in preparing a young person for success, and books have the propensity to make children and youth better thinkers, writers, and leaders. Our motivation stems from our commitment to improving socio-economic development and enhancing social integration for marginalized groups. Our alternative approach reduces inequalities and increases access to education and creative spaces for young people. COAL believes bridging the education inequity gap is possible through books. Our programmes amplify youth voices and create platforms for literary and creative expressions across communities.

Why us

As a part of our team, you will be at the forefront of championing Young African creatives, supporting diverse literary initiatives, and fostering a vibrant literary community across the continent. Together, our team members ignite creativity, inspire generations, and shape the future of African narratives in the literary scene. When you join COAL, you play a valuable role in what we do as an organization. Students, Poets, writers and individuals in communities benefit from the work of individuals like you who share their talents and resources and guide them to self-expression.

Job Summary:

We are seeking a dedicated and experienced Project Officer to join the Custodians of African Literature. The Project Officer will play a crucial role in managing and implementing projects related to promoting African literature and supporting young creatives. This position requires strong creative, organizational and communication skills, as well as a passion for African literature, literacy development and socio-cultural exchange.

Position Overview:

As a Project Officer, you will play a crucial role in planning, organizing, and executing various literary projects and initiatives. Your primary responsibility will oversee the successful completion of projects aimed at promoting literacy, supporting writers, and engaging the literary community. You will collaborate with internal teams, external stakeholders, and volunteers to ensure the efficient implementation of projects and the achievement of organizational goals.

The position will be based in Jos Metropolis with travels across project locations within Plateau State. The position will report to the Programme Manager.

Responsibilities:

Project Planning and Execution:

• Develop quarterly project plans, including activities, timelines, and resource requirements.
• Coordinate with the team to identify project deliverables and ensure timely implementation of tasks.
• Monitor project progress, identify potential issues, and implement corrective actions.
• Ensure project activities are executed within the allocated budget and timeline.
• Regularly communicate project updates to stakeholders and provide progress reports.

Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with schools, writers, authors, literary agents, and other key stakeholders to promote creativity in the African literary scene. 
• Liaise with partner organizations, sponsors, and funders to foster strong relationships and secure necessary resources.
• Coordinate with volunteers and other stakeholders to foster a vibrant literary community.

Event Management:

• Organize and manage literary events such as school creative workshops, open mics, book reading, literary campaigns, and literary festivals.
• Coordinate logistics, including venue selection, event promotion, participant registration, and on-site management.
• Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to ensure successful event execution and a positive participant experience.

Outreach and Promotion:

• Develop and implement strategies to promote the organization’s literary projects and initiatives.
• Manage the organization’s social media presence, website content, and newsletters.
• Create and distribute marketing materials, press releases, and other communications to raise awareness and increase participation.

Administrative Tasks:

• Maintain project documentation, including project plans, progress reports, and budget records.
• Assist in budget preparation, expense tracking, and financial reporting.
• Support grant and funding applications by providing relevant project information.

Qualification: 

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as literature, communications, arts administration, or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in project management, preferably in the literary or arts sector.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills with the ability to prioritize and meet deadlines.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proficiency in using project management tools and software.
• Familiarity with social media platforms and digital marketing techniques.
• Knowledge of the literary landscape, publishing industry, and emerging trends in literature.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
• Attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

Experience: At least 2 years experience in a similar role preferably in education and the creative industry or development organization.

Skills and Knowledge:

•       Excellent organizational and time management skills.
•       Strong written and verbal communication skills.
•       Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
•       Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
•       Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

Supervisory Responsibilities:

The Project Officer will report to the Program Manager. 

Required Languages

English (Fluency in Hausa, Igbo or Yoruba which is widely spoken across Nigeria would be an added advantage)

Equal Opportunity

COAL is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate in its selection and employment practices on the basis of race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, or other non-merit factors. Qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply. COAL recruitment and selection procedures reflect our commitment to protecting children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation.

 How to Apply

Interested candidates should kindly fill the form here. Applications must reach us on or before 31st May, 2023. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the interview