Chief of Party (CoP)

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, economic development, and community empowerment. The organization has a significant presence in Liberia, having started operations in 2002 in response to the humanitarian crisis caused by the civil wars. Mercy Corps aims to implement bold solutions to help communities overcome adversity and build resilience.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Party (CoP) will lead the USDA McGovern-Dole Food for Education (FFE) program in Liberia, which has a budget ranging from $10 to $35 million. This five-year program aims to improve literacy among school-age children and enhance health, nutrition, and dietary practices. The CoP will be responsible for the overall management and strategic vision of the program, ensuring that it meets its targets and deliverables on time and within budget. The role requires strong leadership skills, as the CoP will supervise all program staff and represent the program to various stakeholders, including USDA and local government entities. The anticipated start date for the program is around October 1, 2026.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The CoP will oversee the development of a comprehensive vision and strategy for the FFE program, ensuring alignment with government and donor priorities in security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, and education. Responsibilities include managing program administration, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations. The CoP will also be tasked with building and managing partnerships with consortium partners, local governments, and other stakeholders. Key duties include overseeing recruitment and onboarding of staff, promoting a culture of accountability, and ensuring effective financial management of the program budget. The CoP will also be responsible for safeguarding practices and ensuring that the program adheres to Mercy Corps' values and standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in similar projects, with a preference for those who have served as Chief of Party or Deputy Chief of Party on large donor-funded programs in Liberia. A university degree in a relevant field such as education or public health is required. Technical expertise in school meals programming, education, child nutrition, and food security is essential, along with experience in managing USDA school feeding programs. Strong personnel management and decision-making skills are necessary, as well as a solid understanding of US government compliance issues. An internationally recognized qualification in project management is preferred or a commitment to obtain it early in the role.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant discipline such as education, public health, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the program and effectively leading the initiatives aimed at improving literacy and nutrition among school-age children.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience in managing large-scale development programs, particularly those funded by major donors. Previous experience in Liberia or similar contexts is highly desirable, especially in roles such as Chief of Party or Deputy Chief of Party. Candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of managing teams, working with government and community actors, and overseeing programs related to food security and education.

Languages:
Fluency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional local languages may be considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Monrovia, Liberia, and requires up to 40% travel to support program activities, which may involve visiting areas with limited amenities. The role offers individual housing with access to good medical services, and the living conditions are of a high standard. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.