Deputy Head of Operations

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development services without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various areas including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The Moldova and Ukraine Country Office has rapidly expanded its programming since the onset of the conflict in Ukraine in 2022, reaching over 500,000 people through a comprehensive strategy that includes shelter, infrastructure, and protection services. The organization is committed to strengthening local partnerships and enhancing the capacity of local leaders to maximize impact.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Head of Operations will serve as the focal point for operations in Ukraine, working closely with the Head of Operations and the operations team in Moldova. This role is critical in ensuring the delivery of high-quality services in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, logistics, and risk management for the Country Office (CO) and specifically for the Ukraine office. The Deputy Head of Operations will also provide support and guidance to Caritas partners on operations-related issues, helping them develop policies and standard operating procedures (SOPs) that align with donor requirements and CRS internal policies. The position requires a proactive approach to managing operations and ensuring compliance with safety and security protocols, as well as supporting the programming team in operational aspects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Head of Operations will have a range of responsibilities including: acting as the primary security focal point for the Ukraine team, monitoring the security situation, coordinating travel approvals, overseeing field travel security, and ensuring resiliency measures are in place. The role also involves coordinating logistics and administration for the Ukraine office, ensuring that all SOPs are established and followed. The Deputy Head will support the Head of Operations and the Risk and Compliance team in assessing risks related to emergency responses and will participate in investigations as necessary. Additionally, the Deputy Head will provide guidance to partners in logistics and supply chain management, assist in designing capacity-strengthening plans, and participate in the Ukraine country forum to support its activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong strategic, analytical, problem-solving, and systems thinking skills, with the ability to see the big picture and make sound judgments. Excellent written and oral communication skills are essential, along with strong presentation, facilitation, training, mentoring, and coaching abilities. The ideal candidate should be proactive, resourceful, and results-oriented, with a solid understanding of partnership principles and experience in networking with donors and civil society partners. Proficiency in MS Office applications and knowledge-sharing networks is also required.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in business administration, finance, accounting, or a related field is required, with a Master’s degree preferred. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of operations management within an international NGO context.

Experience:
Candidates should have 3-5 years of relevant international working experience in an advisory or management role, ideally within an international NGO. A minimum of three years of experience in operations is required, with previous experience in an emergency context being essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English (both written and verbal) is mandatory. Knowledge of Ukrainian, Russian, or Romanian is considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in the operational context of Ukraine.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent on funding confirmation and is based in Ukraine, with the successful candidate expected to travel up to 50% between Moldova and Ukraine, as well as to field locations. The role includes supervisory responsibilities for operations staff and consultants in Ukraine. 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 are based on the country of employment. The organization is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring a safe working environment for all staff.