Chief of Party (COP)

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Position Title: Chief of Party (COP)
Location: Erbil
Country: Iraq
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global organization that has been working in Iraq since 2003, focusing on relief and development programming across all 18 governorates. The organization aims to address the needs of internally displaced persons and strengthen communities' resilience amidst crises. With a mission to create a better world, Mercy Corps emphasizes diversity and inclusion within its teams to enhance its impact.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Party (COP) will lead the implementation of the anticipated five-year USAID-funded Iraq Civic Engagement Activity (ICEA). This program aims to foster a politically engaged citizenry in Iraq, enhancing trust and participation in democratic processes. The COP will be responsible for providing overall leadership, management, and strategic vision for the program, ensuring that it meets its targets and deliverables on time and within budget. The role involves supervising program staff, ensuring accountability to Mercy Corps policies, and representing the program to stakeholders, including USAID and government entities. The COP will also play a crucial role in developing a vision and strategy for the program, integrating diverse voices into governance strategies, and fostering collaboration with Iraqi partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The COP will oversee the technical and administrative leadership of the ICEA program, ensuring that all assistance provided is technically sound and meets activity objectives. Responsibilities include leading the development of program strategies, managing program implementation to ensure it is responsive to community needs, and ensuring adherence to Mercy Corps’ guidelines and standards. The COP will develop partnership frameworks, oversee capacity building for partners, and ensure that all interventions align with Mercy Corps’ Gender Policy and Do No Harm principles. Additionally, the COP will coordinate with various operational teams to support field activities and fulfill program management standards. Team management responsibilities include overseeing recruitment, onboarding, and capacity development of staff, promoting a respectful work environment, and providing constructive feedback to enhance team performance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership and management skills, with a proven track record in program implementation and strategic planning. Experience in managing USAID-funded programs is highly desirable. The ideal candidate should have excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. A deep understanding of the political and social context in Iraq, particularly regarding civic engagement and governance, is essential. Candidates should also demonstrate a commitment to gender sensitivity and inclusive practices in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation.

Educational Background:
A master's degree in a relevant field such as international development, public administration, political science, or a related discipline is required. Additional certifications in project management or governance may be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in managing complex development programs, particularly in conflict-affected settings. A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience, including at least 5 years in a senior management role, is expected. Experience working with USAID or similar donor agencies is preferred, along with a strong understanding of civic engagement and governance issues in Iraq.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with proficiency in Arabic being highly desirable. Knowledge of Kurdish is a plus, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Erbil, Iraq. The contract duration is for the length of the program, which is anticipated to be five years. The COP will be expected to work closely with both national and international staff, and the organization is committed to providing a competitive compensation package along with benefits that support the well-being of its employees.