Project Director - Nutrition

Job Posting Organization:
CRS (Catholic Relief Services) is a leading international humanitarian agency that has been working to save, protect, and transform lives in need for over 75 years. Established in 1943, CRS operates in more than 100 countries worldwide, focusing on emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor and vulnerable, regardless of race, religion, or nationality. CRS has a strong emphasis on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and its processes reflect this commitment. The agency's work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, aiming to create a positive impact in the communities it serves. CRS also prioritizes hiring candidates from the regions in which it operates, ensuring that local knowledge and expertise are integrated into its programs.

Job Overview:
The Project Director for the Nutrition project will provide strategic leadership and overall management to ensure the successful implementation of a World Bank-funded initiative aimed at delivering essential nutrition interventions in various regions of Sudan, including West, Central, South, and North Darfur, as well as Khartoum. This role is crucial in addressing the nutritional needs of vulnerable populations, including refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and host communities. The Project Director will be responsible for ensuring high-quality programming, compliance with donor expectations, and effective stakeholder management. This position requires a proactive approach to security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management and risk mitigation, as well as the ability to foster a positive team environment and promote staff well-being. The Project Director will also represent CRS in international forums, highlighting innovative practices and program results.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Project Director will lead all aspects of the project, including its development, implementation, and consolidation. Key responsibilities include serving as the primary contact for the World Bank and other stakeholders, ensuring compliance with donor expectations, and coordinating between program and operations teams. The Project Director will manage senior programming and operations staff, oversee recruitment processes, and ensure adherence to CRS program quality standards. Additionally, the role involves monitoring national and regional issues that may impact staff and programming, approving budget adjustments, and managing relationships with consortium partners. The Project Director will also be responsible for creating a safe environment for learning, identifying training opportunities, and ensuring the design and delivery of high-quality training and technical assistance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in International Development, International Relations, International Business, Economics, or a relevant technical area. A minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience in Nutrition, Food Security, and Health is required, along with experience managing donor funds, including multi-country grants. Candidates should have excellent knowledge and experience in budget management, particularly in complex donor-funded grant management within fragile contexts like Sudan. Additionally, candidates should have at least 7 years of staff management experience, with a focus on fostering a learning environment and coaching senior program staff.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a relevant field such as International Development, International Relations, International Business, Economics, or a related technical area is required for this position. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and the specific challenges related to nutrition and health in fragile contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience in the fields of Nutrition, Food Security, and Health. Candidates should have a proven track record of managing complex, high-value, multi-activity projects, particularly in challenging environments. Experience in managing donor funds and navigating the complexities of grant management is highly preferred, especially in contexts similar to Sudan. Additionally, candidates should have experience in coaching and mentoring senior program staff, demonstrating the ability to lead diverse teams effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international stakeholders. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset, as it will facilitate communication with local partners and stakeholders in Sudan. Candidates who possess both languages will have a competitive advantage in this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Khartoum, Sudan, and may require travel up to 40% within the country, depending on project needs. Some regional or international travel may also be anticipated. The role involves overall supervision of the project's programmatic and operations teams, ensuring effective partnership management and positive relationships with donors and external stakeholders. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan for U.S.-based staff. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages will be based on the country of employment. The anticipated duration of the assignment may be informed by a term limit based on the job type and level, as well as the agency's needs.