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 worldwide. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, and its work culture is collaborative and mission-driven. The agency emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values.

Job Overview:
The Senior Program Manager will play a crucial role in providing strategic direction and leadership within the Country Senior Management Teams. This position is responsible for ensuring the successful implementation of multi-country programming aimed at serving the poor and vulnerable populations. The Senior Program Manager will leverage their expertise in program quality to enhance the effectiveness and impact of CRS programming across the region, specifically supporting program offices in South Sudan, Somalia, and Kenya. The role involves assessing risks, advising on mitigation strategies, and collaborating with project managers to ensure effective implementation of projects. The Senior Program Manager will also be instrumental in developing resource mobilization strategies and promoting high-quality project design that aligns with CRS's strategic priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Program Manager will lead the design of country strategic frameworks and plans in collaboration with Country Managers. Key responsibilities include developing resource mobilization strategies, representing CRS at relevant forums, and ensuring high-quality project design that adheres to project management standards. The role requires planning activities across various projects to ensure integration and efficiency, supporting and coaching programming talent, and promoting positive team dynamics. The Senior Program Manager will also contribute to staffing plans, recruitment processes, and training programs, while fostering a safe environment for sharing ideas and solutions. Additionally, the position involves promoting accountability and knowledge management, overseeing the application of MEAL policies, and coordinating with regional and country operations leads for project budgeting. The Senior Program Manager will lead business development efforts, engage with donors, and strengthen partnerships, ensuring effective technical assistance and capacity strengthening for project teams and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant field. A minimum of 5-8 years of relevant field-based program management experience is required, including at least 2 years in a senior management role. Strong experience in managing large and complex humanitarian and development projects is essential, along with a proven track record in business development activities that capture significant public and private donor funding. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of technical principles and concepts, as well as experience in project design, proposal development, and mentoring staff.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor's Degree in a relevant field such as International Development or International Relations is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in related areas may be preferred but are not mandatory.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5-8 years of relevant field-based program management experience, with at least 2 years in a senior management capacity. Experience in managing complex projects funded by multiple public donors is crucial, as is a background in business development and successful proposal writing.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kenya or another country in the region, with a travel requirement of up to 35%. The role includes supervisory responsibilities and is part of a collaborative team environment. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, and salary and benefits for candidates employed outside the U.S. will be based on the local context. The organization is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly vulnerable populations, and candidates are expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct.