Project Director - Child Development, Care and Protection

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, focusing on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to serving the poor and vulnerable without regard to race, religion, or nationality, and emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation. CRS values diversity and welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its mission and values.

Job Overview:
The Project Director will lead and manage a multi-county child development, care, and protection project in Kenya. This role involves ensuring that effective systems and processes are in place to meet project objectives and advance CRS's mission. The Project Director will be responsible for day-to-day project leadership, ensuring compliance with donor requirements, managing subawards, and coordinating effectively with consortium partners and government stakeholders. The position requires strong leadership and technical knowledge to deliver high-quality programming and enhance CRS's reputation as a leading agency in child development and protection. The Project Director will also manage security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks and ensure a safe working environment for all staff involved in the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Relationship Management: Act as the primary relationship manager with all in-country stakeholders, including various ministries and civil society partners. Identify and strengthen partnerships relevant to the project.
• Project Management: Oversee the development, implementation, and consolidation of the project, ensuring adherence to CRS quality principles and donor guidelines.
• Supervision: Manage staffing plans, recruitment processes, and team dynamics. Provide coaching and mentoring to senior staff.
• Program Quality: Ensure technical assistance and capacity strengthening activities enhance program quality and impact.
• Program Learning: Lead the development of program learning and disseminate promising practices.
• Stewardship: Ensure efficient use of agency and donor resources, compliance with financial guidelines, and approval of program expenditures.
• Communications: Develop communication strategies and materials that comply with donor and CRS branding requirements.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s or Doctorate Degree in social work, education, health, or a related field.
• Recognized leadership in the sector, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
• Experience in engaging and strengthening partnerships, with knowledge of CRS partnership strategy.
• Strong management and health technical experience, with a minimum of 8 years in relevant roles.
• Proven experience managing donor funds, including multi-country grants, and strong budget management skills.
• Experience in coaching and managing staff in a learning environment.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field, international development, or international relations is required. A Master’s or Doctorate degree is preferred, particularly in social work, education, or health-related fields.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 8 years of relevant management and health technical experience, including at least 5 years managing donor funds and multi-country grants. Additionally, a minimum of 2 years of experience managing staff is required, with a focus on fostering a conducive learning environment.

Languages:
Fluent English and Kiswahili are mandatory. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may require travel up to 30% to remote low-resource locations. The role is a senior leadership position with supervisory responsibilities. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package and emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture. The organization is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults.