Higher Education Quality Assurance Specialist - Lebanese Development

EDC is one of the world’s leading nonprofit research and development firms. Established in 1958, EDC designs, delivers and evaluates innovative programs to address some of the world’s most urgent challenges in education, health, and economic opportunity. Our services include research, training, educational materials, and strategy, with activities ranging from seed projects to large-scale national and international initiatives.

Project Description 

EDC is preparing for a new project which will strengthen the capacity of Lebanese Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to ensure that their graduates are well-prepared to enter the workforce and contribute to Lebanon’s economic recovery and growth. Improved HEI capacity  education ito ensure strengthened quality assurance of their academic programs and increased related interactions with private sector employers will be one of the key expected outcomes of this new project.

Position Description 

The Specialist for Higher Education Quality Assurance will be a dynamic and innovative professional who will be responsible for working closely with a team of international experts and local consultants to improve the capacity of higher education institutions to build a culture of continuous improvement, ensure the quality of HEI academic programs, and enhance HEI institutional capacity for quality assurance. Working closely with the Chief of Party, the Specialist will be responsible for facilitating strong working relationships with HEIs and ensuring the provision of well designed project assistance to help HEIs implement robust systems and processes to prepare a workforce that meets the needs of the labor market. This role requires a strong strategic thinker with a deep understanding of both higher education and industry needs, and the ability to drive meaningful partnerships that result in impactful outcomes. 

Responsibilities include, but are not limited to:  

• Provide technical support to the Chief of Party, program staff, and consortium partners, addressing challenges related to the project's technical approach and deliverables.
• Work collaboratively with HEIs to improve the quality of their academic program offerings and pave the way to foster partnerships in strategic employment sectors.
• Work with project parnters to enhance the accessibility of academic program accreditation for a greater number of HEIs.
• Identify areas that will enable HEIs to operate more effectively, efficiently, and sustainably, ultimately enhancing their capacity to achieve their mission and goals.
• Assist the Chief of Party to design and administer institutional capacity strengthening grants which provide financial support and resources aimed at enhancing the overall effectiveness and efficiency of institutions.

Engage with relevant ministries, including MEHE, where appropriate to ensure well coordinated delivery of agreed upon program activities.

Education: 

Master’s degree in a relevant discipline such as Development Economics, Business Administration/ Management/Entrepreneurship Development, or another relevant field is required. 

Skills and Experience:  

• At least 5 years demonstrated experience in Lebanon working with HEIs on accreditation and quality assurance;
• Experience providing host governments and HEIs with strategic planning, policy implementation, and technical guidance;
• Working knowledge of internatational higher education accreditation boards, requirements, and processes for transfer and implementation in Lebanon;
• Demonstrated facilitation and presentation skills;
• Proven ability to work independently and in a team environment;
• Excellent people skills at all levels, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to work in a multicultural work environment; and
• Experience in Lebanon required, USAID and international NGO project experience preferred.  

Language:   

Fluency in Arabic and English required. Proficiency in French desired.

Your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.

EDC is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer (M/F/D/V) and has Affirmative Action Plans for Women and Minorities and for Disabled Workers and Veterans. EDC is a smoke-free workplace.