Food Security Continuous Improvement

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ASHISH CHARLES ROZARIO

Personal Information:

Address: House#21/22, Road#2, Block#C, Kaderabad Housing Mohammadpur, Dhaka-1207

E-mail: ad5x7e@r.postjobfree.com

Cell: +880****-******

Date of birth: 23 Nov. 1978

Marital status: Married

About Professional Career

Committed and visionary leader with extensive professional expertise and practical experience in rural and urban development management with national and international organizations, upholding the values of social justice, integrity, empowerment, diversity, inclusion, equality, transparency, accountability, participation, and mutual respect, integrating contextual, strategic, and analytical frameworks of national and international development discourse.

Key Areas of Expertise

• Inclusive Program Development and Management: Education and TVET, Child Rights & Protection, Health & WATSAN, Women's Rights & Empowerment, Climate Change Adaptation, DRR, Livelihood Promotion, Economic Empowerment, Youth Development, Human Resources Management, and Sponsorship Programs.

• Approaches and Frameworks: Safeguarding and Well-being, Right-Based Approach, Results-Based Approach, and Project Cycle Management (planning, designing, budgeting, implementing, monitoring, evaluating, and learning), upholding the rights and dignity of marginalized and vulnerable people, including indigenous people, vulnerable men, women, adolescents, children, and people with disabilities. Leadership and Management

As a seasoned development professional with almost 15 years of experience in managerial positions, I am:

• Results-Focused and Performance-Driven: With a proven track record in implementing projects, managing diverse stakeholders, and capacity building skills.

• Expert in Strategic Planning: With hands-on expertise in planning, program design, budget preparation, partnership management, training facilitation, monitoring, and compliance maintenance.

• Skilled in Donor Relations and Fundraising: With experience in maintaining donor relationships and preparing funding proposals.

• Skilled in Communication and Networking: Communicating effectively, networking, advocating, and reporting on multi-donor projects.

• Experienced in Leadership and Collaboration: Demonstrating nearly 15 years of experience in leadership roles, fostering organizational and institutional development. Leading and managing diverse teams of over 450 individuals and projects, ensuring successful implementation and community engagement. Cultivating strong partnerships and fostering collaboration among stakeholders, including Government (e.g. Line ministries, Education Board, District Commissioner, UNO, education, health, women and children, social welfare, livestock, WASH, cooperatives etc.), Local Governance (e.g. Union Parishad, Ward Councilor, local leader), School teacher, Religious leader, local community, forums, and various community organizations.

Specialized Skills and Knowledge

• Child Rights and Protection: Practical experience and hands-on knowledge in promoting child rights, safeguarding, gender and disability inclusion, ensuring quality and inclusive education, and developing community resources.

• Education: Possessing comprehensive knowledge on education and TVET and oversight of school management functions, teacher training, and mentoring to ensure quality education.

• Women's Rights and Empowerment: Raising awareness of women's rights, empowering them through decision-making, community organization, and livelihood schemes. Education

Master of Development Studies (MDS)

Southeast University

Master of Professional Human Management

(MPHRM) University of Dhaka

Master of Business Administration (MBA) in HRM

Southeast University

Experiences at a Glance

Andheri Hilfe Bangladesh

(German-based INGO): 0.90 years

Good Neighbors Bangladesh

(South Korean-based INGO): 8.95 years

Grameen Telecom Trust

(Social Business pioneer): 05 years

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• Health and WASH: Implementing WASH programs, supporting general health for children and women, including menstrual health and lactating mothers, and improving nutrition status.

• Environmental Protection: Protecting the environment through community-based climate adaptation, utilizing renewable energy such as solar and biogas.

• Community Development: Developing community resources, such as school management committees, community development committees, village development communities, cooperative management committees, child protection committee, child rights keepers, youth councils, volunteers, and child councils. Resource Mobilization and Project Development

• Facilitated resource mobilization internally and externally, collaborating with international donors.

• Developed quality program/project designs aligned with local regulations and donor compliance. Regulatory Compliance and Planning

• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of NGO Affairs Bureau rules, regulations, FD-6, FD-7, and other tools of the Government of Bangladesh applied for NGOs.

• Prepared yearly Plan of Action & 3-year budget plans, aligning with local regulations & donor compliance. Skills and Attitudes:

- I excel in communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders, leveraging my proactive personality to drive effective teamwork and leadership. I am passionate about serving vulnerable populations, including indigenous communities, children, women, and persons with disabilities. With strong decision-making and problem-solving skills, I prioritize fairness and justice. As an excellent motivator, I foster respectful relationships, identify gaps, and develop others through coaching, counseling, and mentoring. I am an active listener, adaptable to new ideas, and delegate work to nurture teammates' potential. With excellent written and oral communication, I maintain confidentiality and personal credibility, ensuring accountability as a trustworthy and expert professional.

Competencies and experiences:

Country Knowledge and Governance

In-depth understanding of Bangladesh's development context, government policies, long-term plans, and NGO regulations.

Program Design and Management

Almost 8 years of experience in planning, designing, and managing programs on education and vocational training, child rights, women's empowerment, health and nutrition, WASH, youth development, livelihood promotion, climate change adaptation, economic empowerment, and disaster risk reduction. Proven track record in managing programs efficiently, ensuring effective delivery, and maintaining organizational policies and donor compliance. Proposal Development and Donor Engagement

Experienced in developing concept notes, project proposals, capacity statements, and content for donors. Skilled in donor harmonization, mapping, negotiation, and coordination with stakeholders. Organizational Development and Partnerships

Proven track record in institution development and partnership building with community-based organizations, public bodies, and civil society organizations. Thematic Expertise

Practical knowledge of child protection, women's rights, and rights of persons with disabilities, including relevant policies and frameworks (SDGs, UNCRC, CEDAW, UNCRPD, UNFCCC, WASH Framework, Vision 2041, National Education Policy- 2010, National Children Policy-2011, Children Act 2018, Child Marriage Restraint Act 2017 and National Women Development Policy 2011 etc.). Partnership Development and Collaboration

Skilled in facilitating partnerships with community-based organizations, local government institutions, professional groups, private sector, and semi-government bodies. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

Experienced in developing MEAL systems, tools, and conducting process, result, performance, and impact monitoring. Skilled in designing baseline, mid-term, and end-evaluation terms of reference, including impact assessment and sustainability assessment. Advocacy, Lobbying, and Networking

Experienced in planning, designing, and launching advocacy campaigns to influence policy change in favor of the poor and marginalized.

Skilled in developing advocacy influencing strategies and defining levels of influence. Finance and Administration

Expert in developing budgets, controlling expenses, ensuring compliance with financial systems and procedures.

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Facilitation and Moderation

Excellent facilitation skills for training, workshops, meetings, and seminars at national and international levels.

Diversity and Inclusion

Competent in managing diversity and inclusion in program design and staff management. Communication and Knowledge Management

Experienced in maintaining optimal communication with stakeholders and producing communication materials such as newsletters, media briefs, and annual reports. HR Management and Development

Skilled in managing human resources including performance appraisal and learning and development. Team Management and Collaboration

Proven track record in effective team management, fostering motivated teams, and achieving results. Documentation and Reporting

Competent in producing high-quality reports, documenting best practices, and preparing case studies, policies, and training modules.

Work Experiences

May 2023- Mar 2024 Manager (Program), ANDHERI HILFE Bangladesh Leading ANDHERI HILFE's Country Program in Bangladesh:

Provided visionary leadership, aligning ANDHERI HILFE's program in Bangladesh with the organization's goals, objectives, and national development agenda.

Oversaw diverse thematic areas (eye health, livelihood, DRR, climate change adaptation, women & adolescent rights, WASH, social safety net programs), ensuring best practices, monitoring, and continuous improvement.

Spearheaded growth and elevated reputation, expanding reach and impact through strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagement.

Partnership Management:

Collaborated with 15 local partners, maintaining strong relationships, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring effective planning and implementation of projects.

Fostered partnerships with government ministries, NGOs, and community leaders. Project Assessment and Reporting:

Conducted thorough assessments, and led mid-term and impact assessments, ensuring alignment with donor requirements and project feasibility.

Prepared detailed assessments of project concept notes, project proposals, and implementation plans, including log frames, monitoring and evaluation plans, and budgets.

Verified and provided feedback on half-yearly, yearly, and completion reports from partner NGOs, ensuring accuracy and adherence to reporting requirements, highlighting achievements, challenges, and lessons learned.

Capacity Building:

Implemented comprehensive initiatives to strengthen partner NGOs' and staff members' skills, enhancing their ability to effectively implement projects and achieve desired outcomes.

Conducted tailored training programs, workshops, and mentoring sessions to build technical expertise and foster innovation.

Undertook organization development (OD) & institutional development (ID) trainings towards establishing good governance and maintaining high standard of the organization. Financial Management and Compliance:

Managed financial aspects of partnerships, adhering to regulations, policies, and procedures, ensuring accountability and transparency in all program activities.

Evaluated consolidated ASA (receipts and payments) of partner NGOs, providing feedback and comments to ANDHERI HILFE.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning:

Conducted quarterly field visits to partner organizations to assess progress, identify technical quality and implementation issues, and provide effective solutions, evaluating project performance, and maintaining clear and transparent communication with partner NGOs and the donor organization. Stakeholder Engagement:

Coordinated and liaised with national and international organizations, fostering collaborative relationships, and enhancing the organization's visibility and outreach.

Proactively managed public relations, engaging with stakeholders and promoting the organization's mission and impact.

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May 2018 – May 2023 Deputy Manager (HR & Admin), Grameen Telecom Trust HR Strategy, Procedures, Resource Management, and Policy Alignment:

Aligned HR strategies with organizational goals, ensuring initiatives support business objectives.

Developed and implemented compliant HR policies, procedures, and SOPs, fostering a positive and legal work environment.

Designed accessible HR systems promoting diversity and equal opportunities for all employees.

Championed the organization's values and culture, creating a positive and inclusive workplace.

Implemented strategies to boost employee satisfaction, reducing turnover and fostering loyalty. Workforce planning, Recruitment and Selection:

Partnered with senior management to develop strategic workforce planning initiatives, optimizing talent acquisition.

Reviewed job position requests and descriptions, making recommendations to ensure accuracy and consistency.

Conceptualized and adapted recruitment processes, incorporating safeguarding and ethical considerations.

Sourced candidates through various channels, screening resumes, coordinating interviews, and selecting the best talent.

Learning and Development:

Conducted training needs analysis (TNA) and designed a comprehensive training plan, aligning individual efforts with overall organizational objectives.

Coordinated organization-wide learning and development programs, featuring leadership development initiatives and onboarding sessions.

Performance Management and Succession Planning:

Designed and implemented a robust performance management system, creating and regularly reviewing job descriptions and KPIs.

Supervised and managed the annual performance review process, providing constructive feedback and promoting a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. Compensation and Benefits:

Structured compensation and benefits according to market conditions and budget demands, ensuring competitive packages.

Oversaw payroll administration tasks to ensure accurate and timely distribution of compensation. Employee Relations and Engagement:

Improved employee relations through proactive communication, conflict resolution, and counseling services.

Organized employee relations activities to enhance morale, foster team building, and promote positive interactions among colleagues.

Safeguarding and Harassment Prevention:

Implemented and enforced safeguarding policies to prevent and address any form of harassment.

Promoted diversity and inclusion, addressing biases and discrimination. Grievance Handling, Disciplinary Actions and Occupational Health:

Coordinated employee grievances and disputes, providing fair and impartial resolutions.

Demonstrated disciplinary actions as per the law, maintaining a fair and consistent approach.

Adapted occupational health and safety measures, ensuring a safe and healthy work environment. Team Management & Development:

Reinforced team-building practices and activities to promote collaboration and enhance employee productivity.

Nurtured an environment of open communication, actively listening and providing timely feedback. HR Administration and Management:

Maintained human resources regulatory compliance, handled employee-related paperwork (e.g. contracts, confirmation, increment, transfer, termination etc.) and maintained and updated personnel files.

Conducted thorough exit interviews, gaining valuable insights and implementing changes to enhance the overall work experience.

Implemented fair and compliant final settlement processes in alignment with organizational policies & law. Reporting and Continuous Improvement:

Provided detailed HR reports to senior management, establishing a metrics-driven approach to evaluate HR programs.

Collaborated with supervisors and managers to address human resource matters, offering guidance and support on employee-related issues.

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Communication, Networking, and Liaison:

Cultivated and maintained strong communication, networking, and liaison channels with various stakeholders.

Acted as a liaison between different departments and government agencies, facilitating collaboration, information sharing, and problem-solving.

January 2018 - 30 April 2018 Sponsorship Service Team Leader, Good Neighbors Bangladesh Collaborative Partnerships:

Established effective communication with international headquarters and Community Development Projects (CDPs) for seamless program implementation.

Collaborated with local stakeholders to leverage their expertise and resources, creating a holistic approach. Coordination and Contributions to Child Well-being and Safeguarding:

Led initiatives to address critical issues like child marriage, labor, abuse, and malnutrition.

Implemented strategic interventions to promote the well-being of vulnerable children. Training and Capacity Building:

Designed and delivered workshops to equip staff with skills to support child development and protection and ensured availability of necessary resources for capacity-building.

• Coached, trained, and mentored staff to strengthen their technical capacity, exchange knowledge within the team, address gaps, and provide professional development Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning:

Monitored and evaluated the effectiveness of the interventions, using data-driven insights to continuously improve the programs and address emerging challenges faced by the focus zone children. Supervision and Evaluation:

Provided effective supervision, management, and evaluation of sponsorship staff to ensure best practices and continuous improvement in child protection.

January 2016 – December 2017 HRM Team Leader, Good Neighbors Bangladesh Improved Management Guidelines: HR Policies and Procedures/SOPs

Updated HR policies and procedures/SOPs to align with best practices and legal requirements

Developed HR plans and job descriptions to enhance staff motivation and professional growth Workforce Planning and Hiring Management:

Partnered with senior management on strategic workforce planning, optimizing talent acquisition

Equipped HR with adequate resources to ensure financial sustainability of human capital operations

Attracted and sourced candidates through various channels, reviewed applications, and conducted assessments

Scheduled and coordinated interviews, with a standardized process to ensure fair candidate evaluation

Conducted reference checks and background verifications to uphold hiring integrity

Maintained a diverse talent pipeline and positive candidate experience throughout the process

Developed an offer approval and negotiation process to ensure competitive and equitable compensation Performance Management, Recognition and Retention:

Adopted a performance appraisal system, communicated KPIs, and provided constructive feedback

Implemented employee recognition programs to boost morale and retention

Fostered top talent retention and a culture of performance-driven leadership Safeguarding and Child Protection:

Implemented safeguarding policies, trained stakeholders, ensured staff adherence, and actively practiced, promoted, and endorsed safeguarding policies within the team. Team Management, Effective Communication and Coordination:

Enhanced team efficiency through process improvements and coaching

Established clear communication channels and collaborated cross-functionally Compensation and Benefits Administration:

Managed compensation, benefits, and payroll functions efficiently Conflict Resolution and Positive Work Environment:

Managed conflicts, ensured safety, and handled disciplinary actions professionally HR Administration and Compliance:

Oversaw HR services, maintained records, and facilitated administrative processes including attendance and leave management

Prepared strategic directions for Plan of Action (PoA), FD-6, FD-7, and other necessary documents related to project approval from NGOAB and maintained liaison with the NGO Affairs Bureau. Documentation and Reporting:

Maintained and updated personnel files, HR records and prepared analytical reports for management 6

August 2014–December 2015 Education Team Leader, Good Neighbors Bangladesh Advocating Inclusive Education, Child Protection, and Empowerment:

Championed inclusive education programs, ensuring access to quality education for all children, fostering a culture of openness and opportunity.

Promoted safeguarding and child protection, creating a safe and supportive environment for children to learn and thrive, with a focus on zero tolerance for exploitation. Developed and implemented comprehensive safeguarding and child protection measures.

Supported gender equality and equity, empowering girls and women, and addressing gender-based violence and discrimination, fostering a culture of equality and respect.

Advocated for social inclusion and protection, ensuring marginalized groups have equal access to resources and opportunities.

Supported disability inclusion, promoting the rights and participation of children with disabilities in all aspects of education and society.

Empowered women and girls through various initiatives, promoting their rights, education, and economic opportunities.

Supported youth development programs, equipping young people with skills and knowledge, and promoting opportunities for youth leadership and empowerment and digital skills. Effective Project Management and Leadership:

Built and maintained strategic partnerships with government agencies, educational institutions, community organizations, and donors, utilizing partnerships to access resources and amplify the organization's reach.

Established clear work priorities, ensured adherence to procedures, and met deadlines for efficient program delivery, promoting accountability and transparency.

Facilitated transparent and open communication, fostering a positive and inclusive workplace, and promoting overall organizational success.

Created concept notes, log frames, and theory of change documents to ensure successful project implementation and monitoring, promoting a culture of innovation and creativity.

Ensured efficient and effective execution of planned activities, including child council formation, and comprehensive case management, focusing on achieving outcomes and making a meaningful impact.

Developed a realistic and comprehensive budget, regularly monitored expenditures, and promoted a culture of financial transparency and accountability.

Analyzed data and information to track program impact and inform future strategies, promoting a culture of data-driven decision-making.

Designed and facilitated the "Dream Project," fostering an integrated and engaging learning environment that caters to the unique needs of children, promoting creativity and innovation.

Organized and facilitated advocacy, networking, and awareness campaigns such as “Good Daddy Campaign” to combat child marriage, child trafficking, and child labor, promoting social change and community engagement.

Communicated, coordinated, and represented the organization in relevant government and civil society forums, enhancing collaboration and integrated implementation of right-based initiatives.

Monitored project implementation, identified and addressed issues, and promoted a culture of accountability and transparency.

Capacity Building & Training:

Designed and conducted capacity-building training for staff, teachers, and community resources, promoting awareness and understanding of important issues and building capacity for sustainability.

Improved team efficiency by implementing streamlined processes, providing ongoing supervision and mentoring, and fostering a collaborative work culture focused on continuous learning and professional development.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Learning:

Monitored project implementation on an ongoing basis, identifying and promptly addressing any issues or challenges. Reviewed project implementation, financial management, and compliance with donor requirements during monitoring visits, fostering a culture of accountability and transparency.

Conducted field visits to assess progress, identify technical quality and implementation issues, and provide effective solutions. Implemented modifications and improvement plans as necessary to enhance program effectiveness and efficiency.

Developing Strategies, Guidelines, Tools, and Procedures:

Prepared strategic plans and developed user-friendly manuals, guidelines, and periodic reports for program participants, enabling them to effectively engage in program activities. 7

Administrative Tasks:

Prepared strategic directions for Plan of Action, FD-6, FD-7, and other necessary documents related to project approval from NGOAB, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and promoting transparency.

Contributed to preparing the annual publication within the team, promoting a culture of collaboration and teamwork.

May 2009 – August 2014 Project Manager, Good Neighbors Bangladesh Program Development and Management:

Inclusive Education:

Led the development and implementation of inclusive education programs, ensuring equitable access to quality education for all.

Promoted disability inclusion and fostered a culture of openness and opportunity. Child Protection and Safeguarding:

Oversaw the safeguarding plan and organized community awareness programs to combat child abuse and exploitation.

Established clear reporting mechanisms and promoted zero tolerance for abuse.

Supported girls' clubs and empowered women through events and initiatives. Empowering Women and Girls and Gender Equity:

Designed programs that empower women and girls, promoting their rights, education, and economic opportunities.

Collaborated with stakeholders to promote women's leadership and participation in decision-making processes.

Developed and implemented programs to prevent and respond to gender-based violence and discrimination.

Health and Nutrition:

Increased access to healthcare services, including maternal and child health interventions.

Addressed malnutrition and promoted healthy eating habits.

Supported lactating mothers and conducted regular health screenings and assessments. WASH (Water, Sanitation and Hygiene):

Developed programs to provide access to safe water and sanitation facilities.

Conducted hygiene promotion campaigns and provided access to hygiene supplies.

Utilized behavior change communication strategies for sustainable use of facilities. Social Inclusion and Protection:

Implemented programs that foster diversity, equality, and social justice.

Advocated for the rights and inclusion of marginalized groups. Ecology and Environment:

Encouraged the adoption of renewable energy sources and sustainable agriculture practices.

Raised awareness about the importance of environmental protection. Community Organizing:

Empowered women and marginalized groups through mothers' groups and leadership training.

Built capacity and self-reliance within communities.

Promoted transparency and accountability.

Income-Generating Activities:

Led the development of a poverty reduction plan through community-based cooperatives.

Provided various training, financial assistance, and market access to support small businesses.

Provided vocational training for enhancing skills and diversified income sources. Youth Development:

Promoted youth rights and provided leadership training and established safe and inclusive spaces for young people, engaged youths in upholding child rights and promoting social justice & digital skills. Project Management and Goal Setting:

Defined clear and measurable project goals and objectives.

Exhibited strong project management skills, including strategic goal setting, comprehensive action planning, and effective budget management.

Communicated effectively with stakeholders to ensure project alignment and address concerns. Annual Planning and Budget Management:

Prepared detailed annual plans, budgets, and financial reports.

Developed effective budget forecasting and monitoring strategies.

Ensured transparency and accountability in budget expenditures. 8

Community Engagement and Advocacy:

Built strong relationships with community members and conducted awareness campaigns.

Established linkages with local government agencies and facilitated collaboration. Forged Strong Partnerships and Collaboration:

Collaborated effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, NGOs, community leaders, and local organizations, to build strong relationships and secure essential support for program initiatives.

Training and Capacity Building:

Developed and conducted comprehensive training programs.

Provided ongoing coaching and mentoring for professional development.

Empowered women through agro-based and livestock rearing training. Stakeholder Coordination and Engagement:

Coordinated with various stakeholders, including DC, UNO, Education Board, Women and Children Affairs, Upazila Health, Livestock, Cooperatives, Education Board, Union Parishad, community, and other organizations to maintain liaison and networking

Maintained liaison and networking with stakeholders to ensure support and collaboration. Project Monitoring and Evaluation:

Established and monitored effective project tracking mechanisms to ensure progress and timely completion of program activities.

Analyzed and tracked performance metrics to measure the success and impact of projects, demonstrating data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement. Managed Projects with Efficiency and Precision:

Created and managed detailed project plans, timelines, and budgets.

Prioritized tasks and met deadlines consistently. Team Management:

Cultivated a positive and inclusive workplace environment.

Fostered innovation and continuous improvement within the team.

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