Basic Needs Consortium Manager

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 worldwide. The organization is committed to serving the poor and vulnerable without regard to race, religion, or nationality. CRS engages in various programs, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding, and has a collaborative, mission-driven culture that emphasizes improving lives globally. The agency is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, reflecting its commitment to ethical practices and community welfare.

Job Overview:
The Basic Needs Consortium Manager will oversee the Basic Needs Consortium (BNC), ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to support high-quality programming aimed at serving the poor and vulnerable populations. This role involves managing the Consortium Management Unit, representing the BNC with external stakeholders and donors, and ensuring that the BNC operates efficiently and effectively. The manager will lead the implementation of the BNC strategy, facilitate meetings with partners, and provide technical oversight throughout the project cycle. The position requires strong management skills to ensure that the BNC delivers impactful programming and continuously seeks to improve its effectiveness. The manager will also be responsible for fostering a learning environment, identifying opportunities for research and publications, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Basic Needs Consortium Manager will lead the implementation of the BNC strategy, ensuring alignment with the shared vision of the consortium. Key responsibilities include facilitating and chairing Steering Committee meetings, Field Management Team meetings, and Technical Working Groups. The manager will provide guidance and oversight throughout the project cycle, ensuring that project design, implementation, and close-out adhere to quality principles and donor guidelines. The role involves managing the Consortium Management Unit, supervising staff, and promoting team dynamics and well-being. The manager will represent the BNC to external stakeholders, contribute to program learning, and pursue new funding opportunities. Additionally, the manager will oversee technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities, ensure compliance with financial plans, and maintain a clear understanding of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in program design and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong MEAL skills and experience, with a proven ability to build networks and solve problems effectively. Staff management experience is essential, along with the ability to create a conducive learning environment. Proficiency in project grants management, particularly for grants from multiple public donors, is required. The ability to write high-quality technical proposals and engage with partner organizations is crucial. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and problem-solving skills, effective relationship management abilities, and good presentation and facilitation skills. A proactive, resourceful, and results-oriented approach is necessary for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, Economics, or a related field is required. A Master’s Degree is preferred, along with relevant training in humanitarian response and knowledge of Sphere standards.

Experience:
A minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience is required, with a preference for experience in the programmatic areas of the BNC. Candidates should have experience managing moderately complex projects and ideally have previous experience in managing consortiums or facilitating partnerships in challenging contexts.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written English is mandatory, while oral and written Arabic is preferred. Proficiency in these languages will enhance communication with stakeholders and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Jerusalem, with a requirement to travel to Gaza up to 30% of the time. The role includes supervisory responsibilities and 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 are based on the country of employment. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring ethical practices in all operations. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and participate in safeguarding initiatives.