Food Assistance - Cash and Voucher Program Manager

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 worldwide, focusing on relief and development work. The organization is dedicated to saving, protecting, and transforming lives through various programs, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to a collaborative, mission-driven culture that values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values. The agency emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes and policies reflect this commitment. With a workforce that spans numerous countries, CRS aims to improve the lives of those in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality.

Job Overview:
The Food Assistance - Cash and Voucher Program Manager will oversee programming within the Country Program (CP) focused on cash and voucher interventions. This role involves designing and implementing projects that align with Catholic Relief Services' mission to serve the poor and vulnerable. The manager will utilize their management skills and knowledge to ensure the CP delivers high-quality programming while continuously striving to enhance the impact of its initiatives. The position requires a proactive approach to project management, ensuring that all activities are executed efficiently and effectively in accordance with CRS program quality principles, donor requirements, and best practices. The manager will also be responsible for fostering a positive team environment, supporting staff development, and championing learning among project staff and partner teams.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The primary duties and responsibilities of the Food Assistance - Cash and Voucher Program Manager include managing and implementing all project activities throughout the project cycle, which encompasses project design, start-up, implementation, and close-out. The manager will ensure that the project team and partner staff utilize appropriate systems and tools for effective project execution. Key responsibilities include talent management, supervising team dynamics, providing coaching, and contributing to the recruitment process of project staff. The manager will analyze project performance data in accordance with MEAL policy, proactively identify and address issues, and facilitate participatory processes to overcome implementation challenges. Additionally, the manager will coordinate the identification of staff capacity needs within partner organizations and implement capacity strengthening interventions to support quality project implementation. The role also involves monitoring financial and material resources relevant to project needs, ensuring efficient resource utilization through careful planning and oversight.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field focused on Food Assistance, Cash and Voucher programming. A minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing light to moderately complex projects is required, preferably within an international NGO context. Strong critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills are essential, along with the ability to make sound judgments. Candidates should demonstrate strong relationship management skills and the capacity to work effectively with culturally diverse groups. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary, as is a proactive, results-oriented, and service-oriented mindset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field that emphasizes Food Assistance and Cash and Voucher programming. A Master’s Degree is preferred, particularly for candidates with project management experience in the relevant area.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2-3 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing projects that are light to moderately complex. Experience working with international NGOs is highly desirable, particularly in the context of Food Assistance and Cash and Voucher programming. Candidates should have a proven track record of contributing to the development of technical proposals and engaging with partner organizations.

Languages:
Proficiency in English, including speaking, reading, and writing, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, the ability to speak and read Arabic is considered a valuable asset that can enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This is a short-term assignment expected to last a total of 4 months. The position involves supervisory responsibilities and is designed for candidates who are willing to engage in a collaborative work environment. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. Salary and benefits for successful candidates employed outside the U.S. will be based on the country of employment and the in-country office where the candidate will perform the role. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants, community members, staff, and volunteers from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct.