CRS Program Manager II - MEAL

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 worldwide. The organization is dedicated to saving, protecting, and transforming lives, focusing on vulnerable populations without regard to race, religion, or nationality. CRS's work encompasses various sectors, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The agency is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, ensuring that its processes and policies reflect this commitment. CRS fosters a collaborative, mission-driven culture that values diversity and inclusivity, welcoming individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
The CRS Program Manager II - MEAL position is designed for a technical advisor and leader in Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) for a large, complex, multi-country child protection systems strengthening and family care reform project. The role involves developing, implementing, and managing MEAL tools and methodologies to meet the program's technical requirements. The manager will oversee MEAL activities, maintain relationships with partners and stakeholders, and utilize technical MEAL skills to manage and analyze data. This position is crucial for ensuring compliance with CRS quality principles, donor guidelines, and industry best practices, ultimately aiming to improve outcomes for vulnerable children and families through effective monitoring and evaluation practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Program Manager II - MEAL will provide leadership and management of the technical MEAL for the project throughout its lifecycle. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing data collection, management, and reporting systems, ensuring data quality and reliability. The manager will lead the development of milestone tracking and reporting systems, ensuring harmonized monitoring and reporting across countries and partners. They will provide technical oversight for monitoring child protection systems and family strengthening outcomes, and lead the development of cross-country program learning and knowledge management. The role also involves identifying opportunities for learning and research, disseminating project results and learning products, and overseeing partnerships relevant to MEAL. The manager will ensure the integration of innovations and best practices into the project.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in International Development, International Relations, Sociology, Statistics, MEAL, Data Science, Research Methods, Social Sciences, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience is required, including managing large-scale projects and MEAL programs. Candidates should have experience in project grants management, team management, and engaging with partner organizations. Preferred qualifications include a Master's degree in a related field and at least 3 years of professional experience in MEAL, particularly in child protection and early childhood development programs.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor's degree in fields such as International Development, Sociology, Statistics, or related areas. A Master's degree is preferred and may enhance the candidate's qualifications, particularly for those with experience in international NGOs and MEAL systems.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, with a strong emphasis on managing complex projects and MEAL programs. Candidates should demonstrate experience in leading teams, managing grants, and engaging with partner organizations. Preferred candidates will have at least 3 years of experience specifically in the MEAL field, particularly in child protection and family care reform contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Spanish or French is considered a plus, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in diverse environments and with various stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent upon the successful award of the project. The role may involve travel up to 35%. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., salary and benefits will be based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment for expatriates will be informed by a term limit based on job type and agency needs. CRS is committed to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals, particularly children and vulnerable adults, and candidates are expected to adhere to the agency's Code of Conduct.