Senior Program Manager

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 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 children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that all staff and partners uphold the dignity and rights of everyone involved in their work.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Manager (SPM) position at CRS is pivotal in managing and overseeing the implementation of the Global Fund Malaria grant for the period 2024-202

• The SPM will coordinate activities among three Sub-Recipients (SRs) and ensure that life-saving malaria interventions are effectively implemented across 13 states in Nigeria. This role involves not only program management but also direct oversight of case management activities, ensuring compliance with donor guidelines, and adherence to national strategies for malaria prevention and treatment. The SPM will be responsible for planning, monitoring, and evaluating program activities, as well as providing technical support and training to SR staff. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to achieving program goals within budget and timelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Manager will lead the planning, coordination, and execution of program activities, ensuring that all operations align with organizational goals. Key responsibilities include supervising and mentoring project teams, developing strategic plans, overseeing daily project operations, and monitoring progress against targets. The SPM will prepare and manage program budgets, ensuring efficient resource use and compliance with donor requirements. Building and maintaining relationships with donors, government agencies, and partners is crucial, as is representing CRS at relevant meetings and advocating for program priorities. The SPM will also identify training needs for staff and partners, facilitate capacity-building initiatives, and ensure effective communication within the team and with external stakeholders. Regular high-quality reporting will be required to keep all parties informed of progress and challenges.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in health sciences, MBBS, or related disciplines. A Master’s degree in public health or a related field is preferred. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 8 years of experience in programming management, particularly in the non-profit sector, with at least 3-5 years in managing public health programs focused on malaria. Proven ability to lead and manage grants while collaborating with various stakeholders is essential. Experience in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) is also highly desirable.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in health sciences, MBBS, or related disciplines is required for this position. A Master’s degree in public health or a related field is preferred, as it demonstrates a higher level of expertise and understanding of public health issues, particularly in relation to malaria management and prevention.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of experience in programming management, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked in the non-profit sector. Additionally, candidates should have at least 3-5 years of experience specifically in managing, coordinating, and overseeing public health programs focused on malaria, ideally at a managerial level within an international NGO. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to lead teams and manage complex projects effectively.

Languages:
English is the mandatory language for this position, as it is essential for communication with stakeholders, reporting, and documentation. Proficiency in other languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the regions where CRS operates.

Additional Notes:
The Senior Program Manager position is full-time and may require travel up to 50% of the time to various project sites. The role includes supervisory responsibilities over Program Managers and Program Officers. 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 will be based on the country of employment. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture committed to improving the lives of the poor globally. CRS is an Equal Opportunity Employer and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds.