Emergency Program Manager II - RAPID

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 areas including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and actively seeks to employ individuals who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The agency's work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, aiming to improve the lives of the poor globally. CRS has a comprehensive benefits package for its staff, which varies based on the country of employment.

Job Overview:
The Emergency Program Manager II for the RAPID grant will oversee the development and implementation of emergency programming within the Sudan Country Program (CP). This role is crucial in ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to support high-quality programming that aligns with CRS's mission to serve the poor and vulnerable. The manager will be responsible for managing the Sudan RAPID project, ensuring that all project phases from design to close-out adhere to CRS quality principles, donor guidelines, and industry best practices. The position requires strong management skills to lead a team, foster a positive work environment, and ensure the continuous improvement of emergency programming impact. The manager will also engage in humanitarian coordination to enhance coverage and accountability in response to the humanitarian crisis in North and East Darfur, where food insecurity and health needs are critical.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Emergency Program Manager II will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including: managing the Sudan RAPID project, providing technical oversight and guidance throughout the project lifecycle, ensuring compliance with CRS quality standards and donor requirements, and managing the emergency staff effectively. The manager will lead the development of program learning by identifying opportunities for research and dissemination of best practices. They will also contribute to the agency's knowledge management agenda and pursue new funding opportunities to expand the emergency portfolio. Additional responsibilities include overseeing budgeting and staffing plans, ensuring timely project expenditures, and enhancing the capacity of staff and partner organizations. The manager will also be responsible for maintaining strong relationships with partners and stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related field of emergency program management. Additional relevant experience may substitute for some educational requirements. A minimum of 5 years of field-based project management experience is required, with at least 3 years in complex emergencies. Experience in the Sudan context is preferred, along with a background in managing moderately complex projects. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s Degree and experience working with international NGOs, particularly in managing US Department of State funds.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Bachelor’s Degree in a relevant field such as International Development, International Relations, or emergency program management. A Master’s Degree is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications. Additional experience in the field can substitute for formal education, indicating that practical experience is highly valued in this role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with a strong preference for at least 3 years of experience specifically in complex emergencies. Familiarity with the Sudan context is highly desirable, as it will inform the candidate's approach to managing projects effectively in this challenging environment. Experience in managing moderately complex projects is also essential, demonstrating the ability to handle various aspects of project implementation and oversight.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is essential for communication and documentation. Proficiency in Arabic is desirable, as it will facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders in Sudan. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Tawila, North Darfur, and involves significant travel, with up to 70% of the time spent traveling within Darfur. The role includes supervisory responsibilities, managing a team of 3 Technical Program Managers. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan for U.S.-based staff. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits will be based on the local country office policies. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and commitment to safeguarding program participants and community members from exploitation and abuse.