Job Description: Project Manager
Position Title: Project Manager
Location: Krushnaprasad Block, Puri, Odisha
Salary: ₹60,000 per month+ Travel allowances and other benefits
Reports to: Executive Director, AJSA India

About the Organization:
Since 1989, AJSA India continues to be a leading organization addressing the root causes of extreme poverty through its holistic, community-driven approach to Sustainable Development. The organization was born with the vision of eliminating social injustice for the marginalized and underprivileged section of society who succumbed under poverty in the remotest parts of the country.

Over a period of more than three decades, AJSA has been striving to develop sustainable initiatives by partnering with government, civil society organizations and private organisations to develop community-based solutions in areas of livelihood security, healthcare, education, climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction extending its reach to more than 3.5 million people and empowering various sections of society.

Position Overview:
The Project Manager will be responsible for the overall planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of the "GREEN" Project in Puri District. This position requires strong project management skills, leadership abilities, and a passion for environmental conservation and community development. The Project Manager will work closely with the Executive Director, project staff, local authorities, and community members to ensure the successful execution of the project.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Project Planning & Implementation:
   • Lead the planning and execution of the Project, ensuring alignment with project goals, timelines, and budgets.
   • Oversee mangrove conservation efforts, livelihood interventions, women’s empowerment initiatives, and disaster risk reduction activities.
   • Coordinate with local communities, government authorities, and other stakeholders to facilitate project implementation.
2. Team Management:
   • Supervise and manage project staff, ensuring that roles and responsibilities are clearly defined.
   • Provide guidance and support to the field teams, fostering teamwork and accountability.
   • Ensure timely reporting of project progress to the Executive Director and funding partners.
3. Monitoring & Evaluation:
   • Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the progress and impact of the project.
   • Regularly review project performance, addressing any challenges or delays that may arise.
   • Ensure the timely collection of baseline data and conduct post-implementation surveys to measure project outcomes.
4. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Maintain effective communication with local authorities, PRI members, community leaders, and government departments.
   • Organize regular community meetings and capacity-building workshops to engage the target communities in the project activities.
   • Ensure coordination with funding partners, such as Tata Sustainability Group, Tata Community Initiative Trust, and Tata Steel Foundation.
5. Financial Management:
   • Oversee the project’s budget, ensuring that expenses align with financial plans.
   • Ensure compliance with AJSA’s financial policies and donor requirements.
   • Prepare and submit financial and narrative reports as required.
6. Risk Management:
   • Identify potential project risks and develop mitigation strategies.
   • Ensure all environmental and safety regulations are adhered to during project implementation, particularly during mangrove plantation activities.
   • Work closely with the team to ensure the sustainability of the initiatives undertaken.

• Education: A Master’s degree in Environmental Science, Rural Development, Social Work, or a related field.
• Experience:
  • At least 5 years of experience in managing community-based projects, preferably in the areas of environment, livelihoods, or disaster risk reduction.
  • Prior experience working with rural or coastal communities in Odisha is highly desirable.
• Skills:
  • Strong project management skills with experience in planning, implementation, monitoring, and reporting.
  • Ability to lead teams, communicate effectively, and foster relationships with government officials, communities, and donors.
  • Financial management and budgeting skills.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills in Odia and English.
  • Proficiency in MS Office, project management tools, and data analysis software.

• Willingness to travel extensively to project sites in Puri district.
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and handle multiple priorities.
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability to work in a challenging environment.