Country Representative, Afghanistan and Pakistan

Job Posting Organization:
CRS (Catholic Relief Services) is a humanitarian organization that has been working in Afghanistan since 2002, providing emergency relief and development programs to improve the lives of the poor and vulnerable. The organization focuses on various sectors including WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), education, agriculture, and market system development. CRS operates in over 100 countries globally, with a mission to save, protect, and transform lives in need. The organization is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture.

Job Overview:
As the Country Representative for Afghanistan and Pakistan, you will be responsible for leading and managing the programming and operations of CRS in these regions. Your role will involve strategic leadership to enhance CRS's reputation and impact while managing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and operational risks. You will oversee the design and implementation of programs that meet donor expectations and maximize impact. This position requires a proactive approach to managing team dynamics, ensuring staff well-being, and fostering a culture of learning and accountability within the organization. You will also be responsible for developing strategic partnerships and representing CRS with key stakeholders, including local and national governments and international donors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Champion and lead the vision, mission, and strategy of CRS in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
• Design medium and long-term goals for programming and operations.
• Ensure coordination of objectives among program and operations leads in alignment with CRS strategy.
• Oversee project design and implementation to meet donor expectations and maximize impact.
• Adhere to CRS program quality standards as per MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) policy.
• Manage senior programming and operations talent, providing coaching and mentoring to key staff.
• Develop staffing plans for large projects and oversee recruitment processes for senior staff.
• Build strategic partnerships with national and international organizations.
• Represent CRS with key stakeholders and manage risks related to national and regional issues. 1
• Ensure compliance with safety and security policies and procedures. 1
• Promote accountability, learning, and knowledge management within the organization.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field.
• At least 8 years of experience managing complex relief and development programs.
• Demonstrated experience managing high-value projects from multiple international donors, including USAID, DFID, and UN agencies.
• Understanding of relevant donor regulations.
• Preferred: Master’s degree in a related field and experience engaging partners and strengthening partnerships.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in a similar field is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of experience in managing complex relief and development programs. Experience should include managing high-value projects funded by various international donors, demonstrating a strong understanding of donor regulations and compliance requirements.

Languages:
Professional working proficiency in English is required. Additional language skills relevant to the regions of Afghanistan and Pakistan may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position requires internal travel up to 60% of the time, including international travel between Afghanistan and Pakistan. 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., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The successful candidate is expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and safeguarding policies. The position is contingent on the selected candidate’s ability to legally work in the respective countries.