Program Manager I - CWARO

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, providing assistance without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to serving those in need.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager I for Emergency Response and Recovery at CRS will oversee the development and implementation of emergency response and recovery programming across multiple countries in Central and West Africa. This role is crucial in ensuring that the organization can respond effectively to crises, providing timely and life-saving humanitarian assistance. The manager will be responsible for ensuring that high-quality programming is delivered, adhering to CRS standards and donor requirements. The position requires collaboration with various technical departments and partners to enhance program quality and impact, while also focusing on operational readiness and accountability to affected communities. The manager will lead efforts in hazard and risk mapping, response planning, and the establishment of communication channels with donors, ensuring that CRS can act swiftly and effectively in emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager I will manage all aspects of emergency response and recovery projects, ensuring compliance with CRS quality principles and donor guidelines. Responsibilities include: overseeing project design, implementation, and close-out; managing team dynamics and staff well-being; providing coaching and performance management for direct reports; leading technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities; facilitating program learning and dissemination of best practices; pursuing new funding opportunities; serving as the technical lead for proposal writing; managing project budgets and expenditures; and representing CRS in relevant working groups and clusters. The role also involves ensuring timely project expenditures and the efficient use of resources, as well as fostering partnerships relevant to emergency response and recovery.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong management and technical skills, particularly in emergency programming. Required qualifications include experience in project grants management, proficiency in MS Office and information management systems, and the ability to write high-quality technical proposals. Strong analytical, problem-solving, and relationship management skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in diverse teams and environments. Candidates should demonstrate a proactive and results-oriented approach, with good presentation and facilitation skills.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, Community Development, or a related field is required. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is preferred, particularly in areas such as WASH, shelter, livelihoods, or security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of relevant field-based project management experience, including managing moderately complex projects. Experience working with local partner organizations and in an international NGO context is also required. At least 1 year of experience in emergency programming is preferred.

Languages:
Proficiency in English (verbal and written) is mandatory, with French preferred as a secondary language. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication in the regions served by CRS.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote-based, and candidates must be located in one of the specified countries. The role requires a willingness to travel at least 50% of the time, often on short notice, and for extended periods. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, while compensation for successful candidates employed outside the U.S. is based on the local context. The organization emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture and is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly vulnerable populations.