Program Manager II/Unit Manager (UM) for Health, Nutrition and Social Services

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to serve those in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on relief and development work that includes emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS emphasizes a collaborative, mission-driven culture and welcomes individuals from diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values. The agency is dedicated to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, reflecting its commitment to ethical practices and community welfare. CRS has a comprehensive benefits package for its staff, which varies based on the country of employment, and is committed to the professional development of its employees, ensuring they can reach their full potential in a supportive environment.

Job Overview:
The Program Manager II/Unit Manager (UM) for Health, Nutrition and Social Services will play a crucial role in operationalizing the Health and Nutrition Program Area within the CRS Malawi Country Program. This position involves overseeing the entire Health unit, which includes supervising project managers (PMs) and ensuring that health programs are implemented effectively and sustainably. The UM will work closely with partner networks to strengthen local health systems, aiming to meet the health needs of the poorest and most vulnerable populations. The strategic objective of this role is to ensure equitable access to healthcare and improved health outcomes, aligning with CRS's guiding principles of stewardship. The UM will provide technical support, guidance, and training to staff, ensuring timely implementation of health programs while managing project responsibilities, including procurement and budget monitoring. The position requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including Technical Advisors at regional and HQ levels, to ensure compliance with policies and best practices throughout the project cycle.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Program Manager II/Unit Manager include supervising assigned staff to ensure effective project implementation, providing support to newly hired PMs, and overseeing the preparation of high-quality progress and donor reports. The UM will monitor project budgets, plan department leave, and ensure adequate coverage during staff absences. Additionally, the UM will mentor and coach staff, organize quarterly Technical Working Groups (TWGs), and provide technical support for health and nutrition program activities. The UM will contribute to proposal design and development, ensuring alignment with best practices, and will provide technical assistance to partners while ensuring compliance with CRS and donor policies. The UM will document best practices in Child and Maternal Health and Nutrition, review reports for quality assurance, and facilitate the development of strategic targets and performance indicators. Regular site visits and collaboration with the Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEAL) unit will be essential for tracking performance progress and ensuring programmatic adherence.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in health, nutrition, or a related field, along with five years of relevant professional experience. Candidates should have a minimum of three years of experience in planning, managing, monitoring, and evaluating health and nutrition programs. Proven abilities in program conceptualization, development, planning, and management are essential, as well as experience in project grants management and technical proposal writing. Strong staff management skills conducive to a learning environment are required, along with proficiency in MS Windows and MS Office applications. MEAL skills and experience are also necessary for this role, ensuring that the candidate can effectively contribute to the monitoring and evaluation of health programs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in health, nutrition, or a related field. This educational background is critical for understanding the complexities of health and nutrition programs and for effectively managing and implementing strategies that address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least five years of relevant professional experience, with a minimum of three years specifically in planning, managing, monitoring, and evaluating health and nutrition programs. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to conceptualize and manage programs effectively, as well as experience in engaging with partner organizations and managing project grants.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Chichewa is also required. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and community members in Malawi.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Lilongwe, Malawi, and may require travel of up to 30%. The role involves supervisory responsibilities over project managers and requires strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders, including government officials and NGOs. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, which varies based on the country of employment. The organization is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, and expects the successful candidate to adhere to its Code of Conduct.