Program Manager I, Nutrition

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on saving, protecting, and transforming lives without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor through various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture and welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to service. The agency emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that all staff adhere to its Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies.

Job Overview:
As a Program Manager I for Nutrition, you will oversee the implementation of nutrition programming within the Malawi Country Program. This role involves managing both complex and less complex projects, ensuring that they align with Catholic Relief Services’ mission to serve the poor and vulnerable. You will be responsible for the entire project cycle, from design to close-out, ensuring that all activities are executed efficiently and effectively according to CRS program quality principles, donor requirements, and best practices. Your leadership will be crucial in fostering a high-quality programming environment, where continuous improvement is prioritized. You will also play a key role in coaching and developing project staff, managing team dynamics, and ensuring that the project team utilizes the appropriate systems and tools for successful implementation.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager I will manage and implement all activities throughout the project cycle, including project design, start-up, implementation, and close-out. Key responsibilities include:

• Ensuring efficient and effective project implementation in line with CRS program quality principles and standards.
• Managing project team dynamics and staff well-being, providing coaching and development opportunities.
• Conducting performance management for direct reports and contributing to the recruitment process of project staff.
• Analyzing and evaluating project performance data in accordance with MEAL policy.
• Identifying and addressing issues and concerns proactively, using participatory processes to overcome obstacles.
• Acting as a resource in project design and proposal development, taking on growth responsibilities as needed.
• Coordinating the identification of staff capacity and technical assistance needs of partner organizations.
• Monitoring financial and material resources relevant to project needs and ensuring their efficient use.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound judgments. Strong relationship management skills are essential, as well as the ability to work effectively with culturally diverse groups. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are required, including the ability to write comprehensive reports. Candidates should be proactive, results-oriented, and service-oriented, demonstrating a commitment to the mission of Catholic Relief Services.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field of Nutrition is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of international programming and the specific challenges associated with nutrition initiatives.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing light to moderately complex projects, preferably with an international NGO. This experience should demonstrate the ability to manage project cycles effectively and engage with diverse stakeholders.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory, and knowledge of Chichewa is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication with project teams, partners, and beneficiaries in the field.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified at Grade Level 9 and involves travel to field sites, estimated at 30%. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For successful candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages will be based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates will be informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to adhere to its safeguarding policies.