Deputy Country Representative

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established in 1943, CRS works to save, protect, and transform lives in need in more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor throughout the world through various programs including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS has a collaborative, mission-driven culture and welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values. The organization prioritizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and its talent acquisition procedures reflect a commitment to the rights and dignity of all people.

Job Overview:
As the Deputy Country Representative, you will play a crucial role in managing and advancing the programming and operational objectives of Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in Madagascar. This position requires strategic management skills to enhance CRS' reputation and impact while ensuring the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of staff and programming. You will work closely with the Country Representative to design medium and long-term goals, provide strategic direction for the country program, and develop resource mobilization strategies. Your leadership will be essential in harmonizing program and operations objectives, overseeing project management, and ensuring compliance with CRS program quality standards. You will also be responsible for fostering a learning environment, promoting accountability, and managing risks associated with national and regional issues that may impact staff and programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the Country Representative to lead the design of medium and long-term goals and provide strategic direction for the country program's strategic frameworks and plans.
• Oversee project management to ensure all projects meet and exceed donor expectations and are designed for maximum impact.
• Ensure adherence to CRS program quality standards as per MEAL policy and procedures.
• Lead planning of activities across various projects to ensure integration and efficiency in implementation.
• Manage senior talent, supervise team dynamics, and promote staff well-being.
• Develop individual development plans and conduct performance assessments for direct reports.
• Contribute to the recruitment process of senior staff and oversee the development of staffing plans.
• Build strategic partnerships with national and international organizations to leverage resources and expertise.
• Represent CRS to key stakeholders, including Church partners, local and national government, and international donors. 1
• Monitor national and regional issues to manage and mitigate risks impacting staff and programming. 1
• Ensure compliance with CRS staff safety and security policies and update plans as necessary. 1
• Promote efficient use of agency and donor resources and oversee monthly expenditures. 1
• Pursue strategic growth opportunities and maintain conditions for learning and accountability.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven staff management experience conducive to a learning environment.
• Ability to represent the agency at high levels and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio), web conferencing applications, and budget management systems.
• Strong strategic, analytical, systems thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent relationship management abilities and communication skills.
• Proactive, resourceful, solutions-oriented, and results-oriented approach to work.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in international development, international relations, or a related field is required. Additional education may substitute for some experience, indicating a flexible approach to educational qualifications.

Experience:
Candidates should have 5-8 years of experience managing high-value relief and development programs. Demonstrated experience in successfully managing high-value projects from multiple international donors, including USAID, DFID, and UN agencies, is essential. Knowledge of relevant donor regulations is also required.

Languages:
Advanced proficiency in French and English is required, with Malagasy being preferred. This multilingual requirement reflects the diverse linguistic landscape of Madagascar and the need for effective communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position involves 30-40% travel, primarily to project sites in communities served by CRS. Supervisory responsibilities include overseeing the Head of Programming, Chief of Parties, relevant Program Managers, and Technical Advisors. 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 anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates is informed by a term limit based on job type and agency needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from exploitation and abuse, and successful candidates are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.