Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP)

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

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is an international non-profit organization founded in 1979, dedicated to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. With a presence in over 40 countries, Mercy Corps has been active in Iraq since 2003, focusing on relief and development programming, particularly for internally displaced persons. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion within its teams, believing that a variety of backgrounds and perspectives strengthens their impact and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Chief of Party (DCOP) will play a crucial role in leading 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 DCOP will assist the Chief of Party (COP) in overseeing project management, ensuring that the program meets its objectives effectively. The role requires a strong focus on civic literacy, empowering citizens to engage in discussions on critical issues, and promoting access to accurate media content. The DCOP will also be responsible for ensuring that marginalized groups are empowered to participate in public life, contributing to a more resilient and participatory democracy in Iraq.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The DCOP will have a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Collaborating with the COP to develop a shared vision and strategy for the ICEA program.
• Leading the development and implementation of local partnership strategies.
• Providing technical leadership to ensure compliance with USAID regulations and Mercy Corps policies.
• Overseeing program management, ensuring timely implementation within budget constraints.
• Coordinating with various teams to support field activities and ensure operational systems are effective.
• Monitoring program implementation through regular assessments and site visits.
• Managing local sub-grants and ensuring compliance with planning and implementation standards.
• Overseeing recruitment, onboarding, and capacity development of program staff.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership skills, with a proven ability to manage complex programs and teams. They should have experience in civic engagement, governance, or civil society organization capacity building. A deep understanding of USAID regulations and compliance is essential. The ideal candidate will demonstrate excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as international development, political science, or social sciences is required. A master's degree is preferred and may be considered an asset for this position.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7-10 years of experience in program management, particularly in international development or civic engagement initiatives. Experience working in Iraq or similar contexts is highly desirable, along with a strong understanding of the local political and social landscape.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in Arabic or Kurdish is highly desirable and would be considered an asset for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Erbil, Iraq. The contract duration is expected to align with the five-year project timeline, contingent upon funding. Mercy Corps is committed to recruiting a diverse workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.