MSD Team Leader Competency Framework

The MSD Team Leader (TL) Competency Framework identifies four core competency domains that define successful programme leadership, developed through research with over 65 experienced MSD practitioners.

The framework challenges the 'hero team leader' myth by recognising that even experienced leaders are continuously learning and adapting to new contexts, sectors and team dynamics.

What does it entail?

• Managing a portfolio of interventions - deal-making, experimentation and capacity building within a systemic change vision
• Shaping the team's learning culture - creating performance-oriented environments with effective technical team structures and open information flows
• Creating the space to operate - managing critical relationships with donors, implementer headquarters and local political actors while empowering deputy leaders
• Adaptive operations - making finance, procurement and HR systems more flexible and suitable for MSD approaches

Each of the domains is broken into sub-domains, which are covered in detail in the slide deck.

The framework includes examples of desired TL behaviours, wider organisational dynamics and a series of ‘competency check’ reflection questions for each sub-domain.

Who is it for:

• Team Leaders - for self-assessment and professional development planning
• Coaches and mentors - to structure support conversations and prioritise development areas
• Donors - to improve programme design and evaluate implementation quality beyond just results
• Implementers - to enhance recruitment, performance management and succession planning

• Download the Framework
• Read Mike Klassen and Tim Sparkman's blog: "Your job is f***ing hard" - the reality of MSD leadership