Program Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster response, humanitarian assistance, and long-term development efforts. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. With a mission to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities, Mercy Corps has a diverse workforce and a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment.

Job Overview:
The Program Director (PD) will lead Mercy Corps’ portfolio and responsibilities within the EMPOWER program, which is a €21M initiative funded by the European Commission. The PD will serve as the principal representative of Mercy Corps to the Danish Refugee Council (DRC)-led consortium, government counterparts, private sector actors, and local partners. This role requires strategic clarity and adaptive delivery, ensuring compliance and risk management while acting as the primary financial steward for Mercy Corps’ share of the award. The PD will oversee the implementation of the program, which aims to support conflict- and displacement-affected youth aged 15-35 in Sudan, focusing on creating pathways to sustainable employment and entrepreneurship. The position demands a strong commitment to integrating gender equality, disability inclusion, and protection mainstreaming into all program designs and activities, ensuring safe access for at-risk youth and embedding climate and environmental safeguards within the program's framework.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Director will be responsible for translating the program’s theory of change into actionable work plans, leading the technical direction for Output 2, and ensuring seamless integration with Output

• The PD will manage the delivery of the program across multiple states, coordinating with consortium partners to harmonize approaches and tools. Key responsibilities include managing national NGO partners, overseeing financial stewardship, ensuring compliance with EU standards, and leading a high-performing team. The PD will also be tasked with fostering collaboration and accountability within the team, promoting staff well-being, and ensuring adherence to safeguarding and ethical standards. Additionally, the PD will engage in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management, ensuring compliance with country security procedures and maintaining updated risk analyses.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree (preferred) in economics, business, international development, public policy, or a related field, with a Bachelor’s degree required. A minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience managing complex, multi-year, multi-location consortia in fragile settings is essential, along with prior experience in EU-funded programs. Demonstrated expertise in youth employment, market systems, entrepreneurship, cash and voucher assistance, and financial inclusion is required. Candidates should have a strong track record in financial stewardship of large awards, protection mainstreaming, and partnership management. Advanced skills in risk and compliance management are also necessary, along with proficiency in PM@MC standards.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as economics, business, international development, or public policy. A Bachelor’s degree is also required. The ideal candidate will have a strong academic foundation that supports their ability to manage complex programs and lead diverse teams effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in managing complex, multi-year, multi-location programs, particularly in fragile settings. Candidates should have prior experience with EU-funded programs and a proven track record in youth employment, market systems development, and financial inclusion. Experience in managing large budgets and ensuring compliance with donor regulations is essential, as is the ability to navigate complex political and operational environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, while proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable. Candidates should possess strong communication skills to effectively engage with diverse stakeholders and facilitate collaboration across teams and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nyala, South Darfur, and involves significant travel across program locations, including remote or austere environments. The role may require compliance with security protocols and movement procedures. Mercy Corps may provide shared housing or guesthouse accommodation where applicable, and staff are expected to adhere to all security measures. The organization supports ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment.