Deputy Chief of Party – Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain

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 relief and development services 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 individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The agency's work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, dedicated to improving the lives of the poor globally.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Chief of Party – Operations, Logistics and Supply Chain is a pivotal leadership role within the USDA Food for Peace (Title II) emergency food assistance program in Kenya. This position entails overseeing operations, commodity management, logistics, and supply chain systems to ensure the timely and accountable delivery of U.S. origin commodities to food-insecure populations, particularly in the ASAL regions. The incumbent will work closely with the Chief of Party to ensure compliance with USDA requirements, including full traceability of commodities and the establishment of strong accountability systems to prevent fraud, waste, abuse, and diversion. The role requires a strategic approach to managing logistics and supply chain operations, ensuring that all activities align with USDA regulations and contribute to the overall success of the program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Chief of Party will lead logistics and supply chain operations, which include port clearance, transport, warehousing, and distribution. The incumbent will ensure compliance with USDA requirements and applicable Code of Federal Regulations, particularly concerning U.S.-origin commodities and traceability systems. Responsibilities also include overseeing Commodity Management systems to ensure efficient delivery across remote program areas, managing cross-functional coordination between program and operations teams to support implementation and operational efficiency, and leading efforts to strengthen accountability systems while mitigating operational risks. The role involves managing talent, supervising logistics and supply chain staff, providing coaching, and developing individual development plans. The Deputy Chief of Party will also contribute to staffing plans, manage consortium partner compliance, monitor issues impacting staff and programming, and ensure adherence to CRS safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-policies" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security policies. Additionally, the incumbent will create a conducive environment for learning, identify performance gaps, and recommend training and technical assistance for CRS and partner staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, or a related field, along with a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in USG-funded programs. Experience in managing commodity-based programs and logistics systems, as well as supervising staff and managing operational budgets, is essential. Preferred qualifications include a Master’s degree in supply chain, logistics, or a related field, experience in Kenya or similar contexts, and experience managing multi-partner consortia. Strong expertise in commodity management and logistics, knowledge of government coordination systems, and familiarity with USG compliance frameworks are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, logistics, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a similar discipline is preferred and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience, particularly in managing USG-funded programs. Candidates should have experience in managing commodity-based programs and logistics systems, as well as experience supervising staff and managing operational budgets. Experience in emergency operations and working in contexts similar to Kenya's ASAL regions is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon donor approval. The role involves supervisory responsibilities over operations, logistics, and commodity management staff. Candidates must be willing and able to travel up to 50% to field locations, including remote ASAL counties. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For successful candidates employed outside the U.S., salary and benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates is informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from exploitation and abuse, and candidates are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.