Zin Elhac Selçuk
Humanitarian Program Manager
Summary
Seasoned Humanitarian Program Leader with 8+ years of experience designing, implementing, and managing impactful programs in complex contexts. Proven ability to secure funding, manage budgets, and build trust with diverse stakeholders. Committed to alleviating suffering and fostering sustainable development through data-driven program design and effective resource management.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
4
4
Languages
Work History
Food Security CVA & Basic Needs Manager
GOAL
09.2023 - Current
- I play a pivotal role in shaping program design, focusing on the successful implementation of GOAL's Food Security (FS), Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA), and Basic Needs (BN) distribution activities
- My responsibilities extend to ensuring the realization of project results
- My key mandate is to deliver evidence-based programming, drawing insights from comprehensive assessments in Food Security, Basic Needs, and Markets
- I meticulously analyze program data and reports, utilizing various Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) tools, processes, and mechanisms
- Through this, I contribute significantly to the program's success by fostering informed decision-making and impactful outcomes
- I actively engage in quarterly and annual reviews, contributing to TPM activities and program evaluations
- Upholding GOAL's commitment to gender, protection, and safeguarding, I integrate considerations into program design
- I champion beneficiary accountability and humanitarian principles, as per GOAL's Code of Conduct.
- Facilitated successful cross-functional collaborations for the completion of key projects, fostering strong working relationships among other program's and partners.
Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Manager
GOAL
02.2023 - 09.2023
- As CVA Manager, I led impactful contributions to research identification and assessments, ensuring evidence-based programming in Syria
- I meticulously implemented CVA support interventions, tracking progress against plans and proposing solutions for effective implementation
- My role extended to developing concept notes and proposals, managing program expenses, and ensuring quality assurance for program items
- In terms of coordination, I actively collaborated with humanitarian actors, CWG, and FSL Cluster in Turkey
- Representing GOAL's CVA program, I ensured effective communication in coordination forums and working groups.
- Drove operational efficiency through data-driven decision-making processes, leveraging analytics tools for informed strategy development.
- Managed budgets effectively, ensuring optimal financial performance.
Acting Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Manager
GOAL
10.2022 - 02.2023
- In my role as Acting CVA Manager, I have been primarily responsible for contributing to the program design and ensuring the successful implementation of GOAL's cash and voucher distribution activities
- I have played a pivotal role in achieving project results in strict adherence to GOAL guidelines and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- My contributions have been centered around delivering evidence-based programming, drawing insights from food security and markets assessments, as well as program data and reports
- I have actively utilized various Monitoring Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) tools, processes, and mechanisms to inform and enhance program effectiveness.
Senior CVA Officer
GOAL
03.2021 - 10.2022
- As a Senior CVA Officer, my role had been impactful and diverse
- I actively contributed to intervention design, overseeing assessments, registrations, and beneficiary tracking mechanisms
- Leading the development of weekly and monthly plans, I ensured alignment with the annual Detailed Implementation Plan (DIP)
- Collaboration with the Syria CVA team facilitated coordinated program activities and supported needs and market assessments
- I addressed challenges with relevant solutions, ensuring timely and effective activity implementation
- Collaboration with various departments facilitated the planning, implementation, and analysis of monitoring activities
- My contributions extended to supporting the development of SOPs tailored to the program's contextual nuances
- In maintaining data accuracy, I established a secure filing system for beneficiary records and cross-checked information for accurate reporting
- Actively participating in coordination activities, I collaborated with humanitarian actors, the Cash Working Group, and the Food Security & Livelihoods Cluster in Turkey, preventing potential overlaps and ensuring streamlined GOAL activities.
Project Officer
Welthungerhilfe (WHH)
10.2017 - 08.2021
- With a proven track record, I have consistently achieved high success rates in income-generating agricultural projects funded by BMZ, employing Greenhouse and Open-land production methods
- Beyond project implementation, I provided consultancy on technical equipment introduction, rehabilitation, and maintenance, addressing social issues
- In a leadership role, I monitored and guided agricultural teams and experts, implementing technical and social measures within project frameworks
- I played a pivotal role in instructing and training national staff, ensuring adherence to quality standards, particularly through the application of gender-based violence (GBV) and women empowerment strategies
- Additionally, my focus included preventing child labor and fostering social cohesion between Host and Refugee Communities through agricultural activities
- As a representative of WHH, I effectively coordinated activities with local authorities, national project partners, and local councils in Hatay, Mardin, and Gaziantep
- I provided valuable support to implementing partners throughout the project lifecycle, from preparation to implementation and analysis of project processes.
- Managed cross-functional teams to ensure timely completion of project milestones and deliverables.
- Overcame unforeseen challenges by proactively identifying potential issues promptly developing contingency plans accordingly.
FSL Programme Assistance
People in Need (PIN)
04.2017 - 09.2017
- In my role as an FSL Programme Assistant, I played a pivotal role in the efficient management of program documentation
- This included collecting, compiling, preparing, and reporting on essential documents, procurement dossiers, contracts, payment plans, and necessary approvals
- My meticulous approach ensured that all documentation adhered to organizational standards and regulatory requirements
- I actively contributed to the reporting process by drafting quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports, fulfilling the documentation needs of Turkish governmental bodies, donors, and internal management
- This involved synthesizing complex information into clear and concise reports, demonstrating my proficiency in communication and attention to detail
- Additionally, I provided essential support to coordination working groups within IDP camps, host communities, and targeted project sites
- This collaborative effort ensured streamlined communication and effective coordination, contributing to the overall success of the projects within diverse and dynamic environments.
Project Protection Administrative
Mercy Crops
02.2017 - 06.2017
- In my role as Project Protection Administrative, I established and maintained a robust administrative system for the project
- This system was designed to meticulously track all operations and documentation requirements, reflecting my commitment to organizational efficiency and compliance
- I implemented a comprehensive mechanism to ensure the accountability of the project, aligning it seamlessly with protection mainstreaming processes
- This initiative not only facilitated transparent and accountable project management but also contributed to the overall success of protection-related initiatives within the project
- My attention to detail and commitment to establishing feasible accountability structures underscored my dedication to the effective implementation of protection measures within the project framework
- In addition to my role as a Project Protection Administrator, I assumed a pivotal consultancy role for a protection project implemented in Northwest and Northeast Syria
- Leveraging my expertise, I provided crucial technical support to the project teams, specifically focusing on protection mainstreaming and psychosocial support (PSS) activities within child-friendly spaces.
Project Education & Protection Officer
IBC International Blue Crescent Relief And Development Foundation
05.2015 - 02.2017
- As a Project Education & Protection Officer, I spearheaded the successful implementation of high-quality projects in Temporary Education Centres (TECs) and Child Friendly Spaces (CFSs) in Gaziantep
- My collaborative approach involved engaging with partners, parents, teachers, administrators, and psycho-social teams to ensure the longevity and impact of the initiatives
- In collaboration with donors, I played a crucial role in enhancing the quality of data collection, identifying target communities, and designing and analyzing assessments
- This comprehensive approach to project management ensured robust reporting mechanisms and alignment with project objectives
- I undertook the responsibility of recruiting and managing a psycho-social team comprising 18 individuals
- Through targeted training programs on PSS curriculums, child protection, and awareness sessions covering topics such as early marriage, child labour, and women empowerment, I contributed to the psycho-social well-being of students and out-of-school children
- Collaboration with donors ensured the adherence to high-quality standards in the services and activities provided
- In addition, I managed coordination with Human Resources, Logistics, and Finance departments by preparing contracts and overseeing the payment processes for project staff
- This multifaceted role underscored my commitment to project success through effective collaboration, robust training initiatives, and meticulous administrative oversight.
- Contributed to a positive work environment by fostering teamwork among officers and promoting professional growth opportunities.
Education
General Topography Technician -
Institute of Technical Surveyors
2013
Executive Professional Certificate in Psychosocial Support and Conflict Transformation -
IOM & Social Science University of Ankara
2017
PMP (Project Management Professional) -
Istanbul Kurumsal Gelisim
10.2019
PMD Pro 1 (Project Management for Development Professionals) - undefined
Trust Consultancy
Co-operation (Co-operatives systems) -
Anadolu University
02.2021
HPCM (Humanitarian Project Cycle Management) -
Bioforce
06.2022
Skills
Strategic Planning & Risk Management
Contract Management
Project Management
Resource Coordination
Analytical Skills & Reporting
Problem-solving aptitude
Conflict Resolution
Needs assessment and program design
Grant writing and proposal development
Budgeting and financial management
Key Qualifications( Relevant To The Position)
Program Design and Strategy:
- Data-driven program shaping: Led research, assessments, and strategy development for programs like FSL, Education, Protection, and CVA, specifically tailored for complex contexts.
- Grant acquisition: Secured funding from USAID, ECHO, BPRM, GIZ, and OCHA through compelling concept notes and proposals.
- Operational efficiency: Established guidelines and SOPs ensuring program quality and compliance.
Program Management and Implementation:
- Effective team leadership: Supervised diverse teams, fostering seamless coordination and communication.
- Budgetary expertise: Managed resource allocation and budgets efficiently, meeting program objectives on time and within budget.
- Compliance champion: Navigated donor requirements, implemented procurement plans, and ensured adherence to organizational standards.
- Quality assurance: Oversaw donor and organizational testing, upheld high standards of accountability and transparency.
Programme Quality and Compliance:
- Data-driven decision-making: Analyzed program data, reports, and MEAL findings to inform program improvements.
- Evaluation expertise: Contributed to developing ToRs for TPM activities and program evaluations, ensuring continuous improvement.
Other Relevant Information( E.G., Publications)
Executive Professional Certificate in Psychosocial Support and Conflict Transformation:
Awarded by IOM & Social Science University of Ankara, February 2017 – July 2017.
Field of Study: Psychosocial Support for Refugees and Migrants.
Thesis: Explored the application of Psychosocial Support (PSS) and self-care methodologies for Syrian refugee women through creative arts.
I earned an Executive Professional Certificate in Psychosocial Support and Conflict Transformation from IOM and the Social Science University of Ankara (February 2017 – July 2017). This specialized program focused on equipping me with essential skills in identifying and conceptualizing threats to personal and social well-being arising from displacement, migration, and conflict. The curriculum emphasized a nuanced understanding of psychosocial needs within cultural frameworks and encouraged the application of creative approaches and applied arts to fortify community bonds. Additionally, the program provided training in conflict mediation tools to address conflict impacts at grassroots and small-community levels. It instilled a comprehensive understanding of systemic, family, and narrative approaches, fostering the development of conflict resolution and mediation skills. The participatory approach to assessing community needs and designing interventions, considering local circumstances, was a key component. The program further underscored the importance of appreciating diverse conflict narratives and recognizing the significance of individual and group memories across various cultures. This certification reflects my commitment to applying holistic approaches in psychosocial support and conflict transformation, particularly in the context of refugee and migrant populations.
Digital Skills
Proficient in MS Office programs (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook 365). Experience in creating live dashboards, maps, and other digital tools.
Timeline
Food Security CVA & Basic Needs Manager
GOAL
09.2023 - Current
Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Manager
GOAL
02.2023 - 09.2023
Acting Cash & Voucher Assistance (CVA) Manager
GOAL
10.2022 - 02.2023
Senior CVA Officer
GOAL
03.2021 - 10.2022
Project Officer
Welthungerhilfe (WHH)
10.2017 - 08.2021
FSL Programme Assistance
People in Need (PIN)
04.2017 - 09.2017
Project Protection Administrative
Mercy Crops
02.2017 - 06.2017
Project Education & Protection Officer
IBC International Blue Crescent Relief And Development Foundation
05.2015 - 02.2017
General Topography Technician -
Institute of Technical Surveyors
Executive Professional Certificate in Psychosocial Support and Conflict Transformation -
IOM & Social Science University of Ankara
PMP (Project Management Professional) -
Istanbul Kurumsal Gelisim
PMD Pro 1 (Project Management for Development Professionals) - undefined
Trust Consultancy
Co-operation (Co-operatives systems) -
Anadolu University
HPCM (Humanitarian Project Cycle Management) -
Bioforce