Advisor I, Global Risk and Compliance

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on relief and development work that includes emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS has a collaborative, mission-driven culture and welcomes individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values. The agency is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, reflecting its commitment to the rights and dignity of all people. CRS employs a significant number of staff across various countries, emphasizing a culture of accountability and integrity in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Advisor I, Global Risk and Compliance position is integral to the Global Risk & Compliance (GRC) team at CRS. This role is focused on translating compliance and safeguarding strategies into effective programs for overseas operations. The Advisor will coordinate and enhance partner safeguarding compliance, improve visibility into program status and risks, and support stakeholders in making informed decisions. The position requires a proactive approach to protecting people and programs by promoting accountable and compliant operations across CRS's global portfolio. The Advisor will engage in various activities, including planning, tracking, documentation, and follow-up to ensure the successful implementation of compliance programs. This role is essential for maintaining the integrity of CRS's operations and ensuring adherence to compliance standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Advisor I, Global Risk and Compliance include supporting the global implementation of CRS’s Partner Safeguarding Compliance Program, assisting with planning, tracking, documentation, and follow-up activities across regions and partners. The Advisor will translate global compliance and safeguarding strategies into operational guidance for country programs and partners, ensuring consistency with CRS requirements. Routine compliance and safeguarding monitoring activities will be coordinated, including maintaining trackers and consolidating input from country teams. The Advisor will administer assigned compliance programs, such as the USG Trafficking in Persons Compliance Program and the USG Subrecipient Audits Program, by maintaining records and supporting reporting requirements. Additionally, the Advisor will contribute to risk and compliance reporting by compiling data and preparing summaries to enhance visibility into program status and emerging risks. The role also involves serving as a point of coordination between the GRC team and internal stakeholders, contributing to continuous improvement efforts, and assisting in the administration of compliance programs and the development of agency-wide strategies and tools.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree in International Relations, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or a related field. Candidates must have a minimum of 5 years of experience in Compliance, Risk Management, Safeguarding, or related fields, preferably within an International Non-Governmental Organization (INGO) environment. Knowledge of compliance, risk management, safeguarding, or governance concepts within international development or humanitarian contexts is essential. Familiarity with donor compliance requirements, particularly for USG-funded programs, is also required. Strong analytical thinking, writing, and communication skills are necessary, along with proficiency in Office 365 applications, especially Excel and Power BI. A strong sense of customer care and service, as well as planning and analytical skills, are also important for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as International Relations, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or other related disciplines. A Master's degree in a related discipline is preferred but not mandatory. The educational background should provide a solid foundation in the principles of compliance, risk management, and safeguarding, which are critical for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in Compliance, Risk Management, Safeguarding, or other related fields. This experience should ideally be gained in an INGO environment, where the candidate has developed a strong understanding of compliance frameworks and operational challenges in international development contexts. Experience in managing compliance programs and working with diverse teams across different cultural settings is highly valued.

Languages:
The mandatory language for this position is English. Proficiency in English is essential for effective communication and documentation. While not explicitly stated, additional language skills may be considered an asset, particularly if they align with the regions where CRS operates, enhancing the ability to engage with local partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position does not involve supervisory responsibilities and does not require travel. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages will be based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates will be informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from all forms of exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct. The organization prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS has offices.