Denis Olak Email & Phone Number

Kampala, Central Region, Uganda

With over 15 years of experience in emergency, humanitarian, and development sectors, I have worked with National and international NGOs in Uganda. I specialize in managing diverse program portfolios, leading rapid response teams, and coordinating humanitarian operations. My expertise includes strategic leadership in sectors such as Education, Protection, Food Security & Livelihoods, Health & Nutrition, Gender-Based Violence prevention and Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction. I have… Show more With over 15 years of experience in emergency, humanitarian, and development sectors, I have worked with National and international NGOs in Uganda. I specialize in managing diverse program portfolios, leading rapid response teams, and coordinating humanitarian operations. My expertise includes strategic leadership in sectors such as Education, Protection, Food Security & Livelihoods, Health & Nutrition, Gender-Based Violence prevention and Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction. I have extensive experience in program development, monitoring and evaluation (MEAL), and managing the full project life cycle—from design and grant acquisition to implementation and site closure.Strategic planning and management are a key strength. I have successfully built partnerships with National and international organizations, UN agencies, and government bodies, enhancing collaboration for impactful programs. Additionally, I have strong skills in financial management, supply chain management, contracts, asset management, and ensuring safety and security through effective risk management, crisis preparedness, and staff training. Show less

Kampala, Central Region, Uganda

Driven by my passion for equity and resilience, I spearheaded groundbreaking efforts to ensure persons with disabilities are not just recipients of aid but active participants in disaster risk reduction. As Partner Project Manager for Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DiDRR), I led the implementation of DiDRR initiatives, ensuring that persons with disabilities were integrated into disaster management at all stages. I developed work plans, results frameworks, and provided strategic… Show more Driven by my passion for equity and resilience, I spearheaded groundbreaking efforts to ensure persons with disabilities are not just recipients of aid but active participants in disaster risk reduction. As Partner Project Manager for Disability Inclusive Disaster Risk Reduction (DiDRR), I led the implementation of DiDRR initiatives, ensuring that persons with disabilities were integrated into disaster management at all stages. I developed work plans, results frameworks, and provided strategic leadership to partners on inclusive disaster risk reduction strategies in refugee settlements of Nakivale and Rhino Camp. This included implementing early warning systems and evacuation plans tailored to the needs of persons with disabilities, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines, and organizing capacity-building workshops to enhance community resilience.In partnership management, I strengthened relationships with local partners, government agencies, and organizations of persons with disabilities (OPDs). I conducted capacity assessments, facilitated knowledge sharing, and led quarterly reviews to monitor progress. Additionally, I established robust monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) systems to ensure project impact and accountability, while setting up feedback mechanisms for persons with disabilities to actively engage in decision-making.My key achievements include improving the resilience of over 5,000 persons with disabilities across disaster-prone regions in Uganda including Kasese floods responses, enhancing the capacity of 10+ local partners to implement inclusive DRR strategies, and integrating disability data into national disaster management systems. I also developed inclusive early warning systems and secured long-term donor funding by delivering high-quality reports, culminating in the establishment of a national platform that promotes disability-inclusive disaster risk management policies Show less

Karamoja Sub Region, Uganda

As Project Manager for the Leave No One Behind (LNOB) Project in Karamoja, I led the planning and execution of education, child protection, and disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives in Karamoja. I developed and updated the Detailed Implementation Plan (DIP) and Results Framework, aligning them with the Mid-Term Review (MTR) findings. Additionally, I tracked project performance against key indicators and targets, facilitating regular review meetings to expedite implementation. I also… Show more As Project Manager for the Leave No One Behind (LNOB) Project in Karamoja, I led the planning and execution of education, child protection, and disaster risk reduction (DRR) initiatives in Karamoja. I developed and updated the Detailed Implementation Plan (DIP) and Results Framework, aligning them with the Mid-Term Review (MTR) findings. Additionally, I tracked project performance against key indicators and targets, facilitating regular review meetings to expedite implementation. I also supported the rollout of Program Management & Monitoring (PMM) tools, ensuring systematic project management and guiding project managers to execute activities effectively.In terms of budget management, I prepared timely budget forecasts, realigned financial plans, and conducted regular Budget vs Actuals (BvA) reviews to maintain accurate financial tracking. I oversaw the submission of procurement plans and Purchase Requisitions (PRs) early in the implementation phase, ensuring there were no delays in high-spend procurements. My financial oversight contributed to a 98% budget utilization rate, and I worked closely with regional teams to ensure accurate expenditure tracking and to develop catch-up plans where necessary.In partnership management, I strengthened relationships with local partners through capacity-building initiatives, bi-annual monitoring visits, and quarterly review meetings. I facilitated the timely preparation and approval of partner agreements, work plans, and M&E plans, ensuring all documents were ready within the first month of the project. The project reached over 15,000 beneficiaries with a 95% completion rate for high-spend activities. I also led the Mid-Term Review, implementing key adjustments that improved project outcomes and contributed to overall program success. Show less

Uganda

Link Community Development Uganda gave me incredible experience in education programming and in safeguarding/child protection, I drove transformative social accountability strategies that expanded critical interventions in Uganda's Bunyoro sub-region, creating a lasting impact for the most vulnerable children. As Senior Programme Manager for Education and Child Protection at Link Community Development Uganda, I provided strategic leadership in the design and execution of national education and… Show more Link Community Development Uganda gave me incredible experience in education programming and in safeguarding/child protection, I drove transformative social accountability strategies that expanded critical interventions in Uganda's Bunyoro sub-region, creating a lasting impact for the most vulnerable children. As Senior Programme Manager for Education and Child Protection at Link Community Development Uganda, I provided strategic leadership in the design and execution of national education and protection programs. I developed a comprehensive funding strategy, securing new donors to expand Link Uganda's education and child protection interventions in Bunyoro sub region. Through needs assessments and proposal development, I ensured that program interventions were synergized to maximize impact and align with national goals for seamless program integration.I oversaw program planning, budgeting, and the entire project lifecycle, ensuring timely and accurate financial and narrative reporting. I led the monitoring and evaluation processes to enhance program quality and effectiveness, while collaborating with government ministries, technical partners, and local organizations to ensure strong partnerships and effective program delivery. Additionally, I supported local partners through capacity development, enabling them to implement and manage education and child protection interventions independently.In leadership and external relations, I managed a diverse team of 6 education officers, providing supervision and fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. I strengthened relationships with government ministries, enhancing policy advocacy, and aligning our programs with national priorities. I led the successful implementation of programs benefiting over 10,000 children, improving program efficiency by 15% through enhanced monitoring and evaluation frameworks Show less

Uganda (East, Central, Western And Northern Uganda.

Working with Sense International Uganda gave me an invaluable experience handling a unique category of disability combining visual and hearing impairment (Deafblind). As a Programme Manager for North, Central, and Eastern Uganda, I provided strategic oversight for disability programs, ensuring compliance with donor regulations and alignment with the organization’s country strategic objectives. I supervised field staff, managed project procurement, and financial resources across multiple field… Show more Working with Sense International Uganda gave me an invaluable experience handling a unique category of disability combining visual and hearing impairment (Deafblind). As a Programme Manager for North, Central, and Eastern Uganda, I provided strategic oversight for disability programs, ensuring compliance with donor regulations and alignment with the organization’s country strategic objectives. I supervised field staff, managed project procurement, and financial resources across multiple field sites, leading technical meetings involving the steering committees and ministry of Health officials, troubleshooting challenges, and ensuring timely submission of high-quality reports that met donor expectations.I oversaw grant budget management, ensuring spending adhered to funding agreements, and mentored staff through regular appraisals and training to enhance their capacity for managing complex projects. Additionally, I facilitated knowledge-sharing with disability partners to promote continuous learning and improvement, contributing to the overall program quality. I was also the safeguarding focal point person ensuring safeguarding principles and practices are adhered to and best practices are shared. The achievements included successfully managing three disability projects for over 2,000 children with sensory impairments, improving financial compliance by reducing project underspending and over-commitment by 15%, and enhanced staff capacity through tailored training programs and one-on-one support and mentorship. This resulted in a 25% improvement in project deliverables. I also led the development of 10+ knowledge-sharing products, establishing Sense International’s thought leadership in disability programming in Uganda. Show less

Northern Region, Uganda

Formerly Christian Counseling Fellowship (CCF) and later rebranded Te-Kworo Foundation, I had the greatest impacts in CCF. Through this position, I provided technical leadership in the development and delivery of education, health, and protection programs in the Acholi sub-region. I ensured that these programs aligned with CCF's strategic priorities, supervised a team of 12 staff and led high-level advocacy efforts at both national and regional forums. I facilitated collaboration with key… Show more Formerly Christian Counseling Fellowship (CCF) and later rebranded Te-Kworo Foundation, I had the greatest impacts in CCF. Through this position, I provided technical leadership in the development and delivery of education, health, and protection programs in the Acholi sub-region. I ensured that these programs aligned with CCF's strategic priorities, supervised a team of 12 staff and led high-level advocacy efforts at both national and regional forums. I facilitated collaboration with key partners, including government agencies, donors, and civil society organizations, ensuring that program objectives were met through regular engagement and knowledge-sharing across the organization.I was responsible for managing program budgets of USD 350,000 per year, ensuring financial compliance, and delivering timely narrative and financial reports that adhered to donor and organizational requirements. My role also involved spearheading advocacy strategies, raising the profile of CCF through the production and dissemination of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials, and overseeing the implementation of robust Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) plans to assess program impact and inform future programming.Key achievements included managing programs that benefited over 5,000 vulnerable child mothers and other vulnerable children and families, establishing partnerships with over 10 key stakeholders including the public private partnership with ministry of Education and Sports, and maintaining a 95% compliance rate with donor reporting, securing continued funding from new donors such as comic relief, UNICEF, MacArthur foundation. Additionally, I developed successful advocacy campaigns that led to policy improvements in child protection, health, and education, and implemented an M&E framework that improved intervention effectiveness by 30%, driving future strategy development Show less

Uganda

As Programme Officer for Protection and Livelihood at Christian Counseling Fellowship, I played a pivotal role in developing and implementing assessment tools to identify and enroll child mothers into the program, ensuring alignment with program objectives. I expanded the skills training program for child mothers and their babies, replicating successful initiatives to reach more beneficiaries. Additionally, I established effective reporting mechanisms to track the coping mechanisms and… Show more As Programme Officer for Protection and Livelihood at Christian Counseling Fellowship, I played a pivotal role in developing and implementing assessment tools to identify and enroll child mothers into the program, ensuring alignment with program objectives. I expanded the skills training program for child mothers and their babies, replicating successful initiatives to reach more beneficiaries. Additionally, I established effective reporting mechanisms to track the coping mechanisms and reintegration needs of child mothers, enabling robust monitoring and evaluation.I supported the enhancement of the business skills training curriculum for teenage mothers at Pader Girls Academy, improving its relevance and impact, and ensured the protection and care of babies through close coordination with the Early Childhood Development (ECD) section. I facilitated the sharing of lessons learned across health, education, livelihood, and protection programs, fostering consistency and best practices. My role also involved creating an open environment for team members, promoting innovation and encouraging participation among child mothers.Key achievements included enrolling and supporting over 150 child mothers, resulting in significant improvements in their livelihood opportunities. I contributed to a curriculum revision that led to a 30% increase in post-training employment and income generation. My implementation of a tracking system helped 60% of participants reintegrate into their communities with enhanced self-reliance. I also improved child protection measures at Pader Girls Academy, reducing child health incidents by 25%, and promoted innovative approaches that enhanced program delivery and engagement. Show less

Northern Uganda

As a Project Officer for Youth Livelihood at the Youth Social Work Association, I played a key role in enhancing youth and women’s livelihoods in Northern Uganda. I conducted participatory appraisals for over 100 child mothers and women’s groups, identifying challenges and opportunities. This led to the formation of 15+ new groups, fostering community support networks. I organized and delivered Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions in life skills, income-generating activities (IGAs), mediation… Show more As a Project Officer for Youth Livelihood at the Youth Social Work Association, I played a key role in enhancing youth and women’s livelihoods in Northern Uganda. I conducted participatory appraisals for over 100 child mothers and women’s groups, identifying challenges and opportunities. This led to the formation of 15+ new groups, fostering community support networks. I organized and delivered Training of Trainers (TOT) sessions in life skills, income-generating activities (IGAs), mediation, and peacebuilding, impacting over 300 beneficiaries.I developed and implemented a comprehensive monitoring and evaluation (M&E) tool to track group progress and outcomes, ensuring effective project oversight. My efforts facilitated the creation of youth networks and partnerships with district administrations and NGOs, securing financial and technical support for the initiatives. I also prepared detailed work plans and activity reports, maintaining project transparency and accountability.Key achievements included training over 200 youth and women, resulting in a 40% increase in group income from IGAs. I supported the establishment of more than 10 cooperatives, promoting sustainable livelihoods and improving community relations. Additionally, I built sustainable partnerships with over 5 key stakeholders, enhancing support for youth-led initiatives and fostering local development. Show less

Kitgum And Pader District

As a Protection Officer with Concerned Parents Association in Northern Uganda, I led initiatives focused on the health promotion and protection of night commuting children. My primary responsibilities included developing and overseeing child protection programs, such as forming Human Rights Clubs, to safeguard children's rights and well-being. I designed and implemented innovative approaches, including role plays, drama, and singing, to promote healthy behaviors among children.I ensured… Show more As a Protection Officer with Concerned Parents Association in Northern Uganda, I led initiatives focused on the health promotion and protection of night commuting children. My primary responsibilities included developing and overseeing child protection programs, such as forming Human Rights Clubs, to safeguard children's rights and well-being. I designed and implemented innovative approaches, including role plays, drama, and singing, to promote healthy behaviors among children.I ensured adherence to best practices in child care and protection and managed detailed records of children commuting to shelters, maintaining accurate tracking of their progress. My role also involved compiling weekly and monthly reports to highlight the impact of program activities on behavioral changes and engaging parents through sensitization meetings to strengthen relationships and raise awareness about their children's experiences.I served as a crucial liaison between parents and night commuting children, addressing concerns and providing solutions to challenges. Through these efforts, I worked closely with communities to ensure that children were protected, supported, and empowered to thrive despite their challenging circumstances. Show less

Post Graduate Diploma In Dme, Monitoring And Evaluation, 1St Class

Activities and Societies: At Uganda Management Institute, I actively engaged in several clubs and societies that enriched my learning.

Masters In Public Health, Maternal And Child Health, Second Class Upper

Activities and Societies: I engaged in various societies during my Master of Public Health Leadership at Uganda Christian University.

Bachelor'S Degree, Public Administration,, 1St Class Degree

Activities and Societies: While at Gulu University, I participated in several societies, where I engaged in discussions on governance.

Diploma In Education, Secondary Education And Teaching, Second Class- Lower

Activities and Societies: At Kyambogo University, I engaged in the student's guild leadership, as the internal affairs minister. I.