Program Manager I

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 relief and development work through various programs including 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 the conflict in 2022, and has expanded its programming to reach over 500,000 people through integrated emergency, recovery, and development strategies. The organization emphasizes local leadership and partnerships to enhance its impact and effectiveness in the regions it serves.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager I will be responsible for managing and providing technical oversight of Shelter and Settlements programming within the Country Office (CO) in Ukraine. This role involves designing and implementing projects that advance CRS's mission to support the most vulnerable and conflict-affected populations in the region. The Program Manager I will ensure that effective systems and processes are in place to facilitate robust program implementation and risk management. The position requires a combination of management skills and technical knowledge to ensure high-quality programming and continuous improvement in the impact of CRS's initiatives. The role is critical in coordinating with partners and ensuring that all project activities align with CRS program quality principles, donor requirements, and best practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager I will perform a variety of duties including: providing management and technical oversight throughout the project cycle, from design to close-out; ensuring efficient and effective implementation of projects in line with CRS standards; coordinating financial and material resources relevant to project needs; championing learning and evaluation processes; 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 programming. The role may involve up to 30% field travel within Ukraine, primarily to partner offices, and requires collaboration with various internal and external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field such as Architecture or 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 be considered in lieu of formal education. Candidates should have good experience in project grants management, including project design, and experience working with partner organizations is highly advantageous. Familiarity with MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) processes and tools is also preferred, along with experience using software such as CommCare and PowerBi.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's Degree in a relevant field such as International Development, International Relations, Architecture, or Civil Engineering. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of Shelter and Settlements programming and for effectively managing projects that address the needs of vulnerable populations. Candidates with additional relevant experience may be considered even if they do not meet the educational requirements fully.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 2 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing projects that are light to moderately complex. This experience should preferably be with an international NGO, where the candidate has demonstrated the ability to manage project cycles effectively and work collaboratively with diverse teams and stakeholders. Additional experience may substitute for some educational qualifications, indicating that practical experience is highly valued in this role.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and its operations. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian may be advantageous, especially for effective communication with local partners and communities. Candidates who are multilingual may have a competitive edge in this position, as the ability to communicate in multiple languages can enhance collaboration and engagement with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Ukraine and is classified under salary grade

• 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 packages are based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven work culture and is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and participate in safeguarding initiatives. The position may involve a term limit based on the type and level of the job and the agency's needs.