Program Manager II

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to provide relief and development assistance, CRS operates in over 100 countries, focusing on saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. The organization engages in various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. In Ukraine, CRS has rapidly expanded its operations following the 2022 invasion, reaching over 500,000 people through a comprehensive strategy that includes shelter, education, and livelihoods, while also strengthening local partnerships and leadership.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager II will oversee the development and implementation of emergency response and recovery programming in Ukraine, particularly for large and complex projects. This role involves ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to support high-quality programming that serves vulnerable and conflict-affected populations. The manager will work closely with partners to provide guidance and technical oversight throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance with CRS quality principles, donor guidelines, and industry best practices. The position requires strong management skills and a commitment to continuous improvement in program impact.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager II will be responsible for managing and guiding new and existing projects, ensuring that project design, implementation, and close-out align with CRS standards. Key responsibilities include overseeing project expenditures, leading program learning initiatives, facilitating the dissemination of best practices, contributing to the CO strategy, and pursuing new funding opportunities. The manager will also serve as the technical lead for proposal writing, oversee capacity strengthening activities for staff and partners, manage team dynamics, and provide coaching and performance management for direct reports. Additionally, the role involves identifying and strengthening partnerships and ensuring effective talent management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree, with a preference for those with experience in international NGOs. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are essential, along with familiarity with humanitarian principles and emergency programming standards. The ideal candidate will have excellent relationship management abilities, experience with MEAL, and proficiency in project grants management. Strong written and oral communication skills, as well as experience engaging with partner organizations, are also required. Proficiency in digital tools and MS Office applications is a plus.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or Humanitarian Assistance is required. Additional relevant experience may substitute for some educational requirements. Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of field-based project management experience, with at least 3 years in emergency and recovery programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked on moderately complex projects in emergency and recovery contexts. Experience in managing projects funded by multiple public donors, including the US Government, is highly desirable.

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

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent on funding confirmation and involves up to 30% field travel within Ukraine, primarily to partner offices. The supervisory responsibilities will be determined based on the organizational structure. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, and retirement savings plans. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits will be based on the country of employment. The organization is committed to safeguarding program participants and adheres to a strict Code of Conduct.