Deputy Country Representative

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve the poor and vulnerable, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and its work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, aiming to improve the lives of those in need. In Sudan, CRS manages a portfolio exceeding 150 million USD, targeting 1.5 million people with essential services by 2025, and operates from a network of 11 offices across the region.

Job Overview:
As the Deputy Country Representative, you will play a crucial role in managing and advancing the programming and operational objectives of CRS in Sudan. Under the guidance of the Country Representative, you will be responsible for ensuring that the organization's mission to serve the poor and vulnerable is effectively implemented. This position requires strong strategic management skills to enhance CRS's reputation and impact while proactively managing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks. You will harmonize program and operations objectives, oversee project management to meet donor expectations, and ensure adherence to CRS program quality standards. Additionally, you will be responsible for managing senior talent, developing strategic partnerships, and ensuring compliance with safety and security policies. Your role will also involve promoting accountability, learning, and knowledge management within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the design and implementation of medium and long-term goals in alignment with the Country Representative's guidance.
• Oversee project management to ensure all projects meet and exceed donor expectations.
• Ensure adherence to CRS program quality standards as per MEAL policy and procedures.
• Effectively manage senior talent and supervise team dynamics, ensuring staff well-being.
• Develop individual development plans and conduct performance assessments for direct reports.
• Contribute to the recruitment process of senior staff and develop staffing plans.
• Establish strategic partnerships with national and international organizations to leverage resources and expertise.
• Represent CRS to key stakeholders, including Church partners, government entities, and international donors.
• Monitor national and regional issues to manage and mitigate risks impacting staff and programming. 1
• Ensure compliance with CRS safety and security policies and update plans as necessary. 1
• Promote efficient use of agency and donor resources and oversee monthly expenditures. 1
• Pursue strategic growth opportunities and maintain a conducive learning environment for staff.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field.
• 5-8 years of experience managing high-value relief and development programs.
• Demonstrated experience managing projects funded by multiple international donors, including the Department of State, World Bank, and/or UN.
• Knowledge of relevant donor regulations and compliance requirements.
• Strong strategic, analytical, systems thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to relate to people at all levels.
• Proactive, resourceful, solutions-oriented, and results-oriented mindset.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field is required. Additional education may substitute for some experience, indicating that candidates with advanced degrees or relevant certifications may also be considered favorably.

Experience:
Candidates should possess 5-8 years of experience in managing high-value relief and development programs. This experience should include successfully managing projects funded by multiple international donors, demonstrating a solid understanding of donor regulations and compliance requirements. Experience in a leadership role within a humanitarian or development context is essential, as is the ability to navigate complex operational environments.

Languages:
Fluent written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in written and spoken Arabic is considered an advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Geneina, Sudan, with travel requirements of up to 50% within the country, including remote field locations. The role is open to international applicants, although candidates holding Sudanese passports are particularly encouraged to apply. The position may allow for remote work from locations such as Nairobi or other areas in East Africa, depending on visa arrangements. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages will be based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment may be influenced by the type and level of the job and the agency's needs.