Program Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization founded in 1979, dedicated to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. With a mission to empower individuals and communities to overcome challenges and achieve their potential, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to implement programs that address the root causes of poverty and conflict. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, believing that a diverse workforce leads to better outcomes and a stronger impact in the communities they serve. In Sudan, Mercy Corps has been operational since 2004, focusing on humanitarian assistance and long-term development efforts in various states affected by conflict and food insecurity.

Job Overview:
The Program Director will lead a significant security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security program in the Darfur Region of Sudan, which is funded by the European Commission. This four-year program, with a budget of €12 million, aims to enhance sustainable livelihoods and food security for rural communities impacted by food insecurity, climate change, and conflict. The role requires strategic oversight and coordination of program implementation, ensuring alignment with Mercy Corps' mission and values. The Program Director will work closely with various stakeholders, including local partners and government entities, to ensure the program meets its objectives and effectively addresses the needs of vulnerable populations, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) and refugees. The position demands a strong leader who can navigate complex environments and foster collaboration among diverse teams to achieve impactful results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Director will be responsible for developing and implementing program strategies that align with Mercy Corps' goals and the specific needs of the communities served. Key responsibilities include reviewing existing program strategies, ensuring synergy across various program areas, and developing detailed work plans with critical milestones. The Director will oversee program coordination, ensuring effective communication among team members and stakeholders, and will be responsible for monitoring progress against the program work plan. Additionally, the Director will manage a team, providing guidance and support to enhance performance and achieve objectives. Compliance with donor requirements and internal standards is crucial, as is fostering a culture of accountability and inclusivity within the team. The Director will also be responsible for ensuring that all program activities are conducted in a secure environment, adhering to safety protocols and safeguarding principles.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field, with a preference for an advanced degree. Direct experience in market systems development programming and economic recovery in Western Sudan is essential. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of working with community participation systems and accountability frameworks. Experience in building partnerships with both private and public actors is critical, as is the ability to facilitate workshops and stakeholder meetings. Strong writing and reporting skills are necessary, along with the ability to navigate complex programming in volatile environments. Candidates should demonstrate capacity in monitoring and evaluation, as well as the ability to supervise and coach staff effectively. Proficiency in oral and written English is required, and candidates must be willing to travel frequently to project sites, including insecure locations.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field is required, with an advanced degree preferred. Relevant fields may include international development, public policy, social sciences, or related disciplines that provide a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian assistance and development work.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience in program management, particularly in the context of humanitarian assistance and development in fragile environments. Experience in leading teams and managing complex programs is essential, along with a history of working effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and community organizations. Familiarity with the socio-political landscape of Sudan and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Sudan would be advantageous, as it would facilitate communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Zalingei, Sudan, and requires up to 40% travel to support country programs, including travel to insecure locations. The role is considered a hardship post, and staff will be provided with shared housing and limited access to medical services. Mercy Corps is committed to ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to professional development activities. The organization is an equal opportunity employer and adheres to strict safeguarding and ethical standards, ensuring a respectful and inclusive work environment.