Program Manager I

Job Posting Organization:
CRS (Catholic Relief Services) is a well-established organization dedicated to alleviating suffering and providing assistance to people in need around the world. Founded in 1943, CRS has grown to operate in more than 100 countries, focusing on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes and policies reflect this commitment. With a collaborative and mission-driven culture, CRS aims to improve the lives of the poor globally, and it actively seeks candidates from the regions in which it operates, fostering local leadership and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager I position is crucial for managing and providing technical oversight of Shelter and Settlements programming within the CRS Moldova and Ukraine Country Office. This role involves designing and implementing projects that support the most vulnerable and conflict-affected populations in Ukraine, particularly in the wake of the ongoing crisis following Russia's invasion. The Program Manager will ensure that effective systems and processes are in place to facilitate robust program implementation and risk management. The position requires a blend of management skills and technical knowledge to ensure high-quality programming and continuous improvement in impact. The role is based in Ukraine and involves close coordination with partners to ensure efficient project cycles from design to close-out, aligning with CRS program quality principles and donor requirements.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager I will be responsible for a variety of duties including: managing and providing technical oversight throughout project cycles, ensuring efficient implementation in line with CRS standards; coordinating financial and material resources relevant to project needs; championing learning and analyzing project performance data; proactively identifying and addressing implementation challenges; acting as a key resource in project design and proposal development; coordinating capacity assessments and technical assistance for partner organizations; and identifying and strengthening partnerships relevant to Shelter and Settlements. The role may involve up to 30% field travel within Ukraine, primarily to partner offices, and requires strong relationship management skills to work effectively with diverse groups.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field such as Shelter and Settlements (Architecture, Civil Engineering). A minimum of 2 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing moderately complex projects is required, preferably with an international NGO. Additional experience may substitute for some educational requirements. Preferred qualifications include experience in project grants management, particularly with multiple public donors, and familiarity with MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) skills. Experience with tools such as CommCare and PowerBi is also advantageous.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree in a relevant field such as International Development, International Relations, or specific disciplines related to Shelter and Settlements like Architecture or Civil Engineering. This advanced degree is essential to ensure the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to manage complex projects effectively. Additional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of formal education, highlighting the organization's flexibility in recognizing diverse pathways to qualification.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant field-based experience, specifically in coordinating or managing light to moderately complex projects. This experience should ideally be gained within the context of an international NGO, providing the candidate with a solid understanding of the challenges and dynamics involved in humanitarian and development work. Candidates with additional experience beyond the minimum requirement may find their applications viewed favorably, as this can demonstrate a deeper level of expertise and capability in project management.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international partners. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian would be considered a strong advantage, as it would facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may also enhance a candidate's suitability for the role, reflecting the organization's commitment to effective communication and collaboration.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under salary grade 9 and is based in Ukraine, with no supervisory responsibilities. 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 are tailored based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a collaborative work culture and is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly vulnerable populations. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and participate in safeguarding measures to protect program participants and community members from exploitation and abuse. The role may involve a term limit based on job type and agency needs, and candidates must meet legal work eligibility requirements in the country where the position is based.