Deputy Head of Programming

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various areas including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The agency has a collaborative, mission-driven culture aimed at improving the lives of the poor throughout the world.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Head of Programming (DHoP) will play a crucial role in providing strategic direction and management for the Chad Country Office’s programming. This position complements the efforts of the Bangui-based Head of Programming (HOP) to ensure the establishment and successful implementation of high-quality programs that serve the poor and vulnerable populations. The DHoP will leverage their management and programming skills to ensure that the Chad Country Office delivers impactful programming while continuously seeking to improve its effectiveness. The role involves strategic planning, resource mobilization, project design, and coordination of activities to ensure efficient implementation of programs. The DHoP will also be responsible for managing team dynamics, providing coaching, and fostering a learning environment within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The DHoP will complement the HOP in providing strategic direction for the design of the Chad Country Office’s strategic frameworks and plans, particularly in relation to emergencies. Key responsibilities include advancing resource mobilization strategies aligned with regional and agency priorities, leading in-person meetings with potential donors, and contributing to high-quality project design that incorporates project management standards and MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) methods. The DHoP will coordinate project planning to ensure integration of program interventions, represent CRS in cluster coordination meetings, manage talent and supervise staff, and promote a culture of accountability and learning. Additionally, the DHoP will coordinate with operations staff for project budgeting, strengthen partnerships, contribute to business development, and provide technical assistance and capacity strengthening for project teams and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess staff management experience conducive to a learning environment, along with some experience in capacity strengthening, including developing curricula and facilitating training. Proficiency in MS Office applications, web conferencing tools, and information management systems is essential. Strong strategic, analytical, and problem-solving skills are required, as well as the ability to manage relationships effectively at all levels. The ideal candidate will demonstrate proactive, resourceful, and results-oriented qualities, along with strong team leadership and presentation skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background provides the foundational knowledge necessary for understanding the complexities of international programming and development work.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of work experience in a program management position with increasing responsibilities within an international NGO. Experience in project grants management, including project design, budget preparation, expenditure tracking, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting is essential. Familiarity with projects funded by multiple public donors, particularly European donors, is preferred, along with experience in successful business development activities.

Languages:
Full proficiency in both French and English is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication within the team and with external stakeholders, particularly in a diverse and multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel within Chad, up to 40%. The role includes supervisory responsibilities for the Partnership and Capacity Strengthening Program Manager and the FHRAOC Program Manager. 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., salary and benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates is informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates are expected to adhere to the agency's Code of Conduct.