International Team Leader (F/D/M) – 100% based in Tbilisi Georgia
Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland, and operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner
For our local economic development LED-project in Georgia we are we are seeking a motivated and empathetic professional to join our team beginning of February 2026 or Upon agreement.
Helvetas Swiss Intercooperation is implementing the Local Economic Development (LED) Project in Georgia (Phase I, 2023–2026), funded by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). The project seeks to improve living conditions and expand opportunities for all citizens, while reducing regional disparities in development. This is pursued through a systemic and facilitative approach that strengthens the capacities of relevant actors, fosters dialogue among stakeholders, and stimulates private sector engagement and participatory decision-making in local economic development. The project applies both Market Systems Development (MSD) and Local Economic Development (LED) approaches to support private sector growth in selected sectors.
Phase I runs from December 2023 to November 2026. Phase II is expected from December 2026 to November 2030, followed by an Exit Phase from December 2030 to November 2034.
YOUR MAIN TASKS
As Team Leader, you will provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the Local Economic Development Project in Georgia. You will ensure high-quality project implementation through effective planning, coordination, and supervision, including sound administrative and financial management and compliance with donor and organizational requirements. A key part of your role will be to guide and support the project team in applying systemic and facilitative approaches, building their capacities through continuous coaching, and fostering effective engagement with partners and key market actors.
You will oversee the development and use of the monitoring and results measurement (MRM) system in line with DCED standards, ensuring that interventions are well designed and generate evidence for learning, accountability, and adaptive management. In addition, you will strengthen knowledge management within the project and promote synergies with other SDC-supported initiatives, as well as with programmes funded by other donors in private sector and vocational skills development.
Beyond project management, you will represent the project externally, building and maintaining partnerships with government, private sector, and civil society stakeholders. You will ensure that interventions are designed and implemented in accordance with the principles of inclusion, sustainability, while fostering the Market Systems Development (MSD) and Local Economic Development (LED) focus of the programme.
YOUR QUALIFICATIONS
- Minimum bachelor's degree in a relevant topic (e.g. social sciences, economics, development studies) or other advanced education. Professional certification in project management and/or related areas preferred.
- At least 10 years’ experience in development cooperation or humanitarian response, including 5+ years of related project management, with proven application of systemic/MSD approach and experience in local economic development in transitional contexts.
- Strong knowledge of Georgia’s context and ability to navigate it.
- Demonstrated skills in project cycle management (PCM) and results-based management (RBM); familiarity with SDC procedures; experience in facilitation and stakeholder capacity building.
- Proven ability to manage resources effectively, ensure quality standards, and apply DCED or results-chain–based measurement systems.
- Strong leadership, team management, and interpersonal skills, with experience in gender and social inclusion and environmental mainstreaming.
- Excellent command of English; knowledge of Georgian is a strong asset; other Eastern European languages desirable..
- Proficiency in MS Office and digital collaboration tools; strong interest in digital solutions for project management.
OUR OFFER
At Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organization where your work creates meaningful global impact. We foster a caring and collaborative culture built on trust, flexibility, and accountability. You will grow in a professional environment that values integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. → We care. We commit.
We offer you an interesting challenge in a motivated team with attractive working conditions. The position is open to international applicants, with remuneration and contractual conditions applied according to the respective international scheme.
Contract is provided until end of phase I (end of November 2026), with possibility of extension for next phase.
READY TO APPLY?
We look forward to receiving your complete application including motivation letter, CV, work certificates and diplomas by November 09, 2025. Please send your electronic application via our online recruiting portal. For additional information, please contact Anastasia Bekish (anastasia.bekish@helvetas.org), Regional Economy Portfolio Manager. For more information about the LED-project please visit: Strenghtening Local Economies in Georgia (helvetas.org)
To learn more about Helvetas and our mission & vision, visit our website http://www.helvetas.org
Connect with us on LinkedIn: Helvetas LinkedIn Page and Follow us on Instagram @Helvetas_ch