Program Manager II - Multisectoral Emergency Response and Partnership

Job Posting Organization:
CRS (Catholic Relief Services) is a humanitarian organization that has been working to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries. Established in 1943, CRS focuses on emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it operates with a mission-driven culture aimed at improving the lives of the poor throughout the world. CRS has a significant presence in Moldova and Ukraine, particularly following the escalation of conflict in the region, and has expanded its programming to reach over 500,000 people through various initiatives. The organization is known for its collaborative approach and commitment to building local capacities and fostering partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager II will lead the provision and coordination of technical support to Caritas Ukraine on the US DOS funded program, Multi-Sector Assistance to War-Affected People in Ukraine. This role involves working closely with partner staff to enhance their capacities in designing and implementing effective multisectoral humanitarian programming. The manager will ensure alignment with humanitarian norms and sectoral standards, particularly in areas such as shelter, protection, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene). The position requires managing and providing technical oversight for the development and implementation of emergency and recovery programs, particularly for large and complex projects, ensuring that all activities are in line with CRS program quality and management standards. The Program Manager II will also play a crucial role in navigating donor communications and requirements, identifying strategic opportunities, and contributing to the overall growth of the Country Office's sector portfolio.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide management, guidance, and technical oversight of the DOS-funded project and other programs throughout the project cycle to ensure implementation and close-out are in line with program quality principles and standards, donor guidelines, and industry best practices.
• Lead the provision and coordination of technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities to enhance program quality and impact, drawing on expertise from CRS Country Office, regional and global technical advisors.
• Oversee the identification, assessment, and strengthening of partner capacity and the appropriate application of partnership concepts, tools, and approaches.
• Ensure timely and appropriate CRS project expenditures in line with financial plans and efficient use and stewardship of project material sources.
• Support the CUA program manager to effectively manage team dynamics and staff well-being.
• Contribute to the advancement of the CRS Country Office strategy and proactively pursue opportunities for new funding to ensure growth of the CO sector portfolio in line with agency, regional, and CO strategic priorities.
• Identify opportunities for learning related to capacity strengthening and facilitate the dissemination of promising practices and lessons learned to contribute to the agency knowledge management agenda.
• Ensure integration of innovations and best practices into program implementation.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Humanitarian Assistance, International Development, International Relations, or a related field is required.
• Minimum of 8 years of relevant field-based project management experience is required, with at least 3 years working in complex emergencies.
• Strong experience in project grants management and knowledge of requirements and regulations of major emergency donors, including US Government (USG) entities.
• Experience in managing moderately complex projects with USG funding, preferably for an international NGO prime.
• Preferred: Master’s Degree in a relevant field, experience working with partner organizations on project management and capacity strengthening, and knowledge of humanitarian principles and standards.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in Humanitarian Assistance, International Development, International Relations, or a related field is required for this position. A Master’s Degree in a similar field is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with a preference for at least 3 years in complex emergencies. This experience should include managing projects funded by US Government entities and a strong understanding of project grants management.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both written and verbal) is required. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian is considered an advantage, which may facilitate better communication and collaboration within the local context.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent on funding confirmation and is based in Ukraine. The role may involve up to 30% field travel within Ukraine, primarily to partner offices. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S. based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture and is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all people, especially children and vulnerable adults.