Private Sector Engagement Manager

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Position Title: Private Sector Engagement Manager
Location: Port Sudan
Country: Sudan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to assist the poor and vulnerable overseas, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development services without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various sectors including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and it welcomes individuals from all faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
As the Private Sector Engagement (PSE) Manager, you will play a crucial role in a large project funded by the World Bank aimed at improving agriculture and livelihoods for the poor and vulnerable populations in Sudan. Your responsibilities will include overseeing the design, marketing, and management of private sector engagement initiatives, particularly focusing on grant mechanisms that stimulate private sector investments in agricultural value chains. You will ensure that the project meets high-quality programming standards and aligns with donor expectations. This position requires a blend of management and technical expertise to effectively deliver on project objectives and foster sustainable agricultural practices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary duties will include managing the development and implementation of private sector engagement processes, including the necessary grants for SMEs, farmers' organizations, and consumer organizations. You will serve as a liaison with public, private, and non-government stakeholders, ensuring compliance with World Bank regulations and the project's objectives. Key responsibilities also involve coordinating with various program and operations leads, overseeing grant management processes, and ensuring that activities stimulate economic opportunities in agricultural value chains. You will be responsible for managing team dynamics, providing coaching, and developing individual staff development plans. Additionally, you will maintain relationships with partner organizations and contribute to the generation of learning from the grant mechanism.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in project management, financial management, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in managing foreign government contracts or grants, particularly in private sector engagement and agriculture in fragile markets, is required. Familiarity with financial rules and regulations, including fiscal controls and grant compliance, is essential. Strong relationship management skills, strategic thinking, and the ability to influence stakeholders are also necessary qualifications for this role.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in project management, financial management, or a related field is required for this position. Candidates with a background in agriculture or experience in fragile markets, particularly in contexts similar to Sudan, will be preferred.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in managing and administering foreign government contracts or grants, with a focus on private sector engagement and agriculture. Experience working with international donors and knowledge of financial rules and regulations is highly preferred. Candidates should also have experience in grant management and the ability to engage effectively with partners and stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, while a working knowledge of Arabic is preferred. This bilingual capability will enhance communication with local stakeholders and facilitate effective project implementation.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Port Sudan, Sudan, and may require travel up to 40% within the country. The role is contingent on the receipt of donor funding, and candidates must be willing to comply with all necessary work permit and medical clearance requirements. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, and retirement savings plans for U.S.-based staff, while benefits for international candidates will be based on the country of employment. The organization prioritizes candidates who are citizens or permanent residents of the countries where CRS operates.