DescriptionQED is a global consulting firm with more than 20 years of experience providing data-driven and insightful solutions in close to 100 countries. We are passionate about transforming lives through knowledge-based solutions. Leveraging deep expertise in monitoring, evaluation, global health, and learning, we help our clients collect, analyze, visualize, and ultimately use data in more effective ways. Our work maximizes results through the use of cutting-edge technologies and innovation, organizational development, and evidence-based decision-making.The purpose of the USAID Learning Activity (ULA) is to further strengthen USAID/Uganda performance and improve the performance of its implementing partners, with a focus on collaborating, learning and adapting, in order to enhance the impact and sustainability of USAID-supported contributions to Uganda’s development. The ULA will achieve this through three objectives:Collaboration: Strengthened collaboration, both internally and with external stakeholders, enables USAID to better leverage expertise, learning and resources; and deepens local ownership.Learning: Systematic learning, through applied research, monitoring and evaluation, informs and improves the relevance, quality and cost- effectiveness of programs and operationsPerforming: Adaptive management of program implementation and meta-level interventions to improve the quality of USAID program outcomes.The Director of Performance Improvement will have primary responsibility for delivering the (1) the “adapting” results related to new ways of doing business, and (2) the “performing” sub-results related to improving the capacity of USAID/Uganda staff.Responsibilities:Technical ManagementWork with the USAID Uganda Program Office to support the integration of CLA (Collaborating, Learning and Adapting) into the program cycle to improve performance and strengthen adaptive management at both the mission and among implementing partnersWork closely with the learning and collaboration teams to design and facilitate processes to bring evidence into program design and support improved program qualityEnsure quality, timeliness, and technological solutions of services to support Mission operations and programs.Lead and support technical aspects of managing activities, including scope of work and work plan development, budget monitoring, and reportingRepresent ULA at local, regional, and international meetings, as required.Facilitate and oversee processes for fostering adaptation of results to improve USAID/Uganda staff capacityProvide vision and leadership to the “adapting” and “performing” agendasHelp USAID/Uganda strengthen internal business practices consistent with USAID’s strategy and commitment to locally led development.Provide USAID staff with the administrative and other support that will free them to operate at the strategic level envisaged.Lead contractor efforts to train, coach and establish mentorship arrangements for USAID/Uganda staff; and ensure complementarity between training, coaching and mentorship.Utilize CLA to continuously improve USAID and ULA’s performance in achieving contract objectives.Contractual/Financial ManagementQA/QC and Compliance: Support development of contract deliverables and attainment of high CPARs.Ensure that MEL contract deliverables are on schedule and meet USAID’s and QED’s standards.Serve as a key technical point of contact and liaison with relevant USAID bureaus, offices; prime contractors and subcontractors; support and in some cases lead the resolution of issues that arise with the client, sub-contractors, and other partners and stakeholders.Personnel ManagementServe as Hiring Manager for key recruitments under the Performance Pillar including development of rationale for new positions, development of key interview process tools in collaboration with HR personnel, and oversight for selection of final candidates.Collaborate and coordinate with other members of the Activity Leadership Team and the Learning and Collaboration pillars.Supervise staff to ensure compliance, delivery of quality services and products, and adherence to the terms of the contract as well as each technical task.Supervise and mentor assigned staff and strive to maintain a high level of staff retention through staff engagement and development, portfolio management and workload balancing, career growth opportunities, and staff loyalty.Embody and uphold QED values, including:Courageous | We show up for one another, tell the truth, and do the right thing.Curious | We approach new ideas in ways that leave us open for discoveryDiverse & Inclusive | We value diversity in all its formsIntentional and Purposeful | We consider what we want to achieve and implement in alignment with those intentionsKind | We put people first. We operate as a team. We demonstrate careLead through example, offer and implement constructive and practical solutions, and implement current and revised policies, procedures, and systems.Review staff performance and provide feedback to team members through informal and formal mechanisms including regular team meetings, individual meetings for coaching, mentoring and other feedback opportunities, and annual performance reviews.Strengthen QED’s positive corporate culture; support other groups and practices in attaining their goals/targets.Requirements:A master’s degree in a field relevant to USAID/Uganda’s CDCS with at least 10 years’ experience in international development (in addition to the five years’ experience below in managing performing teams and a complex portfolio).At least 10 years of progressive experience with adaptive management, organizational learning, leadership development, capacity development, training, and facilitation. 15 years of experience preferred.At least 5 years of managing a complex portfolio of contracts.At least 5 years of experience managing high performing teams.Preferably, three years’ experience living and working in developing country environments, preferably East Africa.Demonstrated experience in virtual and hybrid learning utilizing innovative tools and strategies.Demonstrated ability to organize and effectively communicate results and impact to a variety of audiences.Experience in using project management tools and software to inform allocation of tasks and responsibilities across a diverse team.Superior communication, relationship building, interpersonal, management, and leadership skills.Experience across multiple geographies on strategic and organizational issues.Commitment to developing and staying up-to-date on company policies, practices, and trends.Previous experience on USAID-funded contracts.Fluency in written and spoken English.Extensive and up to date understanding of USAID program cycle, ADS requirements and experience working with USAID missions. Demonstrated experience managing client relationships positively and successfully.Demonstrated facilitation skills for strategic planning, results review, pause and reflect, and after-action review sessions with a variety of stakeholders, including USAID, other development partners, implementing partners, government entities and other local stakeholders