Program Manager for the Bahamas Blue Carbon Initiative

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations, ensuring that its processes and policies protect children and adults from abuse and exploitation. The agency welcomes individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to humanitarian service. CRS emphasizes the importance of safeguarding program participants and adheres to a strict Code of Conduct. The organization also prioritizes hiring candidates from the regions in which it operates, reflecting its commitment to local engagement and empowerment.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager for the Bahamas Blue Carbon Initiative will play a crucial role in providing technical support to local stakeholders in the Bahamas. This position involves developing, coordinating, and implementing the Bahamas Blue Carbon Development Program, which aims to restore and protect coastal natural capital while generating carbon credits for sustainable funding. The Program Manager will be responsible for organizing capacity-building activities and ensuring that climate finance projects align with CRS program quality principles, donor guidelines, and industry best practices. This role is pivotal in advancing high-quality programming that benefits the poor and vulnerable populations in the region. The Program Manager will also engage with various partners, including the Government of the Bahamas, to design a long-term Sustainable Development Strategy that leverages carbon credit monetization for ongoing development efforts. The position requires a proactive approach to project management, collaboration with technical partners, and a commitment to fostering effective partnerships.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager will engage with technical partners and sponsors in the Bahamas to plan and coordinate activities effectively. Key responsibilities include managing CRS activities for the program, prioritizing project interventions for both the short and medium term, launching start-up activities in Q2 of 2026, and collaborating with the Government of the Bahamas to design a long-term Sustainable Development Strategy. The Program Manager will identify and contract local partners and subcontractors to support start-up activities, ensuring quality implementation and adherence to CRS quality principles and standards. Timely and appropriate project expenditures must be ensured in line with financial plans, and safeguarding protocols must be established and followed. The Program Manager will also report on progress, challenges, and recommendations to CRS and partners, establishing monitoring and reporting protocols aligned with the designed verification system. Additionally, the role involves contributing to knowledge management and learning, capturing lessons learned, and supporting quality partner-led program development through active participation in donor discussions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as environmental management or program management, or demonstrate extensive experience that showcases technical knowledge and skills. A minimum of 8 years’ experience managing field-based development and environmental restoration projects is required, along with experience in managing complex projects involving multiple partners. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree and experience working with international NGOs, particularly familiarity with CRS principles. Candidates should demonstrate strong collaboration skills with government partners and local stakeholders, as well as the ability to manage multi-stakeholder planning and implementation. Staff management experience conducive to a learning environment is also essential, along with proven independent work capabilities in dynamic settings.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in relevant fields such as environmental management or program management. Candidates with a Master’s degree will be preferred, as this advanced education can provide a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in environmental restoration and program management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of experience in managing relevant field-based development and environmental restoration projects. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex projects that involve multiple partners, showcasing their ability to navigate the challenges of collaborative work in diverse environments.

Languages:
English is the mandatory language for this position, as effective communication with local stakeholders and partners in the Bahamas is essential for the success of the program. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local communities or partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is a short-term assignment lasting approximately 5-7 months, with the potential for extension based on funding availability. The role requires the candidate to be willing and able to spend at least 50% of their time in the Bahamas during the contract period. There are no supervisory responsibilities associated with this position, and it is essential for candidates to be aware that the job is contingent upon funding availability. CRS is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, and candidates are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.