Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps began its operations in Kenya in 2009, primarily to address the societal wounds that arose from the post-election violence in 200

• Since its inception, the organization has developed a robust and diverse portfolio aimed at tackling the structural causes of poverty and injustice. Mercy Corps focuses on strengthening systems that allow individuals, particularly men, women, children, and marginalized groups, to access opportunities, engage in peaceful democratic processes, and thrive amidst ecological and social changes. The organization collaborates with various stakeholders, including private sector entities and civil society, to drive positive change and ensure inclusivity in opportunities available to all Kenyans. Mercy Corps Kenya is recognized for its leadership in resilience programming, market systems development, and conflict mitigation, and it operates several multi-country and cross-border programs in collaboration with neighboring country offices. The organization works with a diverse base of donors, including USAID, FCDO, the European Commission, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, among others, to empower communities to recover from crises and build better lives.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director (CD) for Mercy Corps Kenya is a visionary leader tasked with overseeing all programming and operations within the country. This role is pivotal in delivering impactful, innovative solutions and influencing systemic change. The CD will build upon a strong foundation of programming that has already improved the lives of over 2.9 million Kenyans. The position requires the management of high-impact, multi-sector programming that is accountable to both program participants and donors. The CD will prioritize strategies for growth, external influence, and partnership building, ensuring that Mercy Corps is strategically positioned to drive forward its programming both within Kenya and in the broader Horn of Africa region. The role involves connecting various programs into a cohesive portfolio guided by a long-term country strategy that aligns with regional and global objectives. The Country Director will also be responsible for building a cohesive team that collaborates effectively to deliver high-impact programming across the country.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will refine and articulate a clear vision for Mercy Corps’ strategy in Kenya, contributing to the regional strategic vision. This includes building strategic partnerships, leading country strategy development, and leveraging technical support for design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and delivery. The CD will engage with donors and communities to secure resources for impactful programs, support program adaptation to contextual changes, and uphold a culture of trust, transparency, and inclusion within the organization. Responsibilities also include recruiting and managing a skilled team, overseeing program quality and impact, leading outreach and engagement with key stakeholders, managing the country budget, ensuring compliance with regulations, and maintaining the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of the team and assets. The CD will also be accountable for ensuring that all interventions adhere to Mercy Corps’ policies and standards, including gender policies and community accountability mechanisms.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, with an MA/S preferred. A minimum of 10 years of field experience in international relief and development programs is required, including demonstrable success in managing large, complex transitional development programs. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of senior-level leadership experience, capacity building, and field management experience. Proven skills in managing multicultural teams, effective representation, negotiation, communication, and organizational skills are essential. Candidates should also have experience in securing funding from diverse donors and managing grants from organizations such as USAID and FCDO. An internationally recognized qualification in project or program management is preferred, along with excellent oral and written English skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, with a preference for candidates holding an MA/S. This educational foundation is essential to ensure that the Country Director has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively lead and manage the complex programs and operations of Mercy Corps in Kenya.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of field experience in international relief and development programs, with a strong emphasis on managing large and complex transitional development programs. Candidates should have at least 7 years of senior-level leadership experience, demonstrating capacity building and field management skills. Experience in working effectively in diverse and multicultural environments is crucial, as is the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and represent the organization to various partners and donors.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. While English is the primary language for this position, knowledge of additional languages relevant to the Kenyan context may be considered advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, the capital city of Kenya, and is accompanied and secure. The role requires approximately 35% travel by road and air to field offices, which may be located in insecure environments. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional growth activities. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to strict safeguarding and ethical standards.