CRS Program Manager I - Cash Voucher

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development services. The organization is committed to saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that all staff and partners uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability.

Job Overview:
The CRS Program Manager I for Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) will oversee the Food Assistance project, ensuring that the program effectively serves the poor and vulnerable populations. This role requires strong management skills and a deep understanding of project cycles, including design, implementation, and close-out phases. The manager will be responsible for ensuring that the project aligns with CRS program quality principles, donor requirements, and best practices. The position involves managing a team, fostering a positive work environment, and promoting professional development among staff. The manager will also analyze project performance data, identify challenges, and implement solutions to enhance program impact. Additionally, the role includes engaging with partner organizations to strengthen their capacity and ensure quality project delivery.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager will manage and implement all CVA activities throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring efficient and effective execution. Key responsibilities include:

• Overseeing project design, start-up, implementation, and close-out phases.
• Ensuring the project team and partners utilize appropriate systems and tools.
• Managing team dynamics and staff well-being, providing coaching, and developing individual growth plans.
• Conducting performance management for direct reports.
• Analyzing project performance data in accordance with MEAL policy.
• Identifying and addressing implementation challenges through participatory processes.
• Contributing to project design and proposal development.
• Coordinating capacity assessments and technical assistance for partner organizations.
• Monitoring financial and material resources to ensure efficient use. 1
• Building and maintaining partnerships relevant to the Food Assistance program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong critical thinking and problem-solving skills, with the ability to make sound judgments. Experience in engaging with partner organizations and developing technical proposals is essential. Strong relationship management skills and the ability to work effectively with diverse groups are required. Excellent written and verbal communication skills are necessary, along with a proactive and results-oriented approach. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s Degree and project management experience in Food Assistance or Cash and Voucher programming, as well as MEAL skills and experience.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field focused on Food Assistance or Cash and Voucher programming is required. A Master’s Degree is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based experience in coordinating or managing moderately complex projects is required, preferably with an international NGO. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successful project management and the ability to navigate complex project environments.

Languages:
Proficiency in English and Hausa is required for this position. Knowledge of additional local languages will be considered an advantage, enhancing communication with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The position may require travel up to 40% of the time. The role includes supervisory responsibilities over partner food assistance officers and CAT officers. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. The organization values a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor globally. CRS is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, and expects all staff to adhere to its safeguarding policies.