Chief of Party (CoP)

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Position Title: Chief of Party (CoP)
Location: Kathmandu
Country: Nepal
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, collaborating with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. The organization emphasizes diversity within its teams, believing that varied backgrounds and perspectives enhance their impact and effectiveness. Mercy Corps began its operations in Nepal in 2005 and has since reached over 900,000 individuals across 23 districts, focusing on areas such as agriculture, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, nutrition, financial services, youth engagement, and disaster risk reduction.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Party (CoP) will lead the anticipated $12 million, five-year USAID/BHA-funded Early Recovery, Risk Reduction, and Resilience (ER4) Activity in Nepal. This role involves providing overall leadership, management, and strategic vision for the Activity, ensuring that it meets its targets and deliverables on time and within budget. The CoP will supervise staff, manage resources, and maintain partnerships, acting as the primary representative to donors, government entities, and other stakeholders. The position requires a commitment to promoting an inclusive culture of learning and adaptive management, ensuring that strong systems and processes drive program performance. The program aims to enhance disaster management capacity and support vulnerable communities in mitigating and recovering from disasters, with an expected start date around October 2025, contingent upon successful award and USAID approval.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide leadership and strategic vision for the Activity, ensuring alignment with Mercy Corps’ principles and strategic plan.
• Oversee program management, ensuring timely implementation and adherence to budget and quality standards.
• Develop and maintain strategic plans for program activities, including target areas and evaluation methods.
• Foster partnerships and ensure effective communication with stakeholders, including government entities and local organizations.
• Manage the program team, promoting accountability and providing constructive feedback.
• Ensure compliance with USAID and Mercy Corps regulations, maintaining transparent financial reporting.
• Represent Mercy Corps at relevant events and maintain relationships with partners and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with country leadership on risk management and security protocols.
• Supervise direct reports and support their professional development.

Required Qualifications:

• MA/S or equivalent experience in development studies, international relations, or a relevant field; BA/S with three years of applicable experience may substitute for MA/S.
• At least seven years of progressively increasing management responsibility in international humanitarian and development projects, with a minimum of five years in field-based roles.
• Proven leadership skills in managing projects of similar size and scope, preferably with USAID/BHA Activities.
• Experience in resilience, emergency response, and disaster risk reduction, particularly in South Asia.
• Familiarity with USAID/BHA regulations and compliance issues is preferred.
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility in program implementation.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a Master's degree in development studies, international relations, or a related field. A Bachelor's degree combined with three years of relevant experience may be considered as a substitute for the Master's degree requirement.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least seven years of progressively increasing management responsibility in international humanitarian and development projects, with at least five years of experience in field-based roles. Proven leadership in managing similar-sized projects, particularly those funded by USAID/BHA, is essential. Experience in South Asia, especially Nepal, is strongly preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent verbal and written communication skills. Proficiency in Nepali and/or other languages spoken in western Nepal is preferred but not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kathmandu, Nepal, with significant travel required to program locations across the country. The role is accompanied for international candidates, with housing provided. The living conditions in Kathmandu are generally safe and comfortable, although candidates should be prepared for routine power cuts, water shortages, and air pollution. The position requires 50% travel or more to field offices, some of which may be remote and require extended travel. This role is not eligible for hardship or R&R benefits. Mercy Corps is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace and is an equal opportunity employer.