Program Manager II

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) has been operational in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since 196

• The organization focuses on various sectors including nutrition, agriculture, emergency response, water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH), health, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS operates with a mission to save, protect, and transform lives in need, working in over 100 countries. The DRC is one of the most populous and resource-rich countries in sub-Saharan Africa, but it faces significant challenges, including high poverty rates and health crises. CRS employs around 190 staff across five offices in Kinshasa, Goma, Kananga, Mbuji Mayi, and Kalemie, demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the needs of the vulnerable population in the region.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager II will oversee the implementation of the Food For Asset program, focusing on agriculture and livelihoods as part of the Resilience security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security Activity (RFSA). This role requires ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to support high-quality programming that aligns with CRS's mission to serve the poor and vulnerable. The manager will utilize their management skills and knowledge to enhance the impact of RFSA programming, ensuring that all activities are conducted in accordance with CRS quality principles, donor guidelines, and industry best practices. The position demands a proactive approach to program learning, identifying opportunities for research and dissemination of best practices, and contributing to the growth of the agriculture and livelihoods portfolio.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager II will be responsible for the following key duties:

• Provide management, guidance, and technical oversight for the development and implementation of agriculture and livelihood interventions under the DRC RFSA throughout the project cycle.
• Ensure project implementation and close-out align with CRS quality principles and standards, donor guidelines, and industry best practices.
• Manage talent contributing to agriculture and livelihoods interventions, supervise team dynamics, and support staff well-being through coaching and performance management.
• Lead program learning initiatives, identifying opportunities for research and publications, and facilitate the dissemination of promising practices.
• Pursue new funding opportunities to grow the agriculture and livelihood interventions portfolio.
• Serve as the technical lead and writer for quality proposals, contributing to budgeting and staffing plans.
• Oversee technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities for staff and partner organizations involved in RFSA programming.
• Identify and strengthen partnerships relevant to RFSA agriculture and livelihoods programming.
• Ensure timely project expenditures in line with financial plans and efficient use of project resources.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, Agrobusiness, Agronomy, or a relevant field. Additional experience may substitute for some educational requirements. A minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience is required, with at least 2-3 years in agriculture and livelihoods. Experience managing large-scale, complex projects, preferably with an international NGO, is essential. Candidates should have experience in all components of livelihoods programming, including market development and income-generating activities, as well as significant experience in agriculture programming.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field is required, with a Master’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, Agrobusiness, Agronomy, or a related field preferred. The educational background should support the technical and managerial aspects of the role, ensuring the candidate is well-equipped to handle the complexities of agriculture and livelihoods programming.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant project management experience, with a strong preference for candidates who have worked in agriculture and livelihoods for at least 2-3 years. Experience in managing large-scale projects with international NGOs is highly desirable, as is familiarity with various components of livelihoods programming, including market systems and value chains.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and French is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Congolese languages is considered desirable, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This is a short-term position lasting three months. The role involves supervisory responsibilities and requires the candidate to be willing to travel up to 70%. 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., salary and benefits are based on the country of employment. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring a safe working environment for all staff.