Head of Programming

Job Posting Organization:
CRS (Catholic Relief Services) has been working on behalf of Afghan families since 2002, providing emergency relief, WASH, education, improved agricultural techniques, and other life-enriching services to tens of thousands of households. The organization operates in more than 100 countries and is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation. CRS has a collaborative, mission-driven culture focused on improving the lives of the poor throughout the world. The organization has a strong presence in Afghanistan, particularly in the provinces of Bamiyan, Daikundi, Ghor, Herat, and Kabul, and has been actively involved in addressing the challenges posed by decades of conflict and natural disasters.

Job Overview:
As a member of the Country Program (CP) Senior Management Team, the Head of Programming will provide overall strategic direction, leadership, and management of the CP’s programming. This role is crucial for ensuring the establishment and successful implementation of large and complex programming that serves the poor and vulnerable populations in Afghanistan. The Head of Programming will work closely with staff and partners across multiple locations, conducting regular visits to provincial offices to oversee program implementation. The position requires proactive management of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks and the advancement of local partnerships, as well as capacity strengthening for staff and partners to ensure high-quality program implementation. The individual will also support technical advisors in strategic areas to enhance the technical quality of CRS’ work in Afghanistan and facilitate learning at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programming will effectively manage talent and supervise staff, focusing on team dynamics and staff well-being. Responsibilities include providing coaching and mentoring, developing individual development plans, and conducting performance assessments for direct reports. The individual will collaborate with the Country Representative to provide leadership and strategic direction for the design of CP strategic frameworks and plans, including resource mobilization strategies. The role involves overseeing the identification and strengthening of partnerships, developing and implementing a local partnership strategy, and leading high-quality project design. The Head of Programming will coordinate planning across projects to ensure integration and efficiency, create conditions for learning, promote accountability and knowledge management, and ensure proper project budgeting and resource stewardship. The individual will represent CRS in donor engagements and strategic working groups, ensuring technical assistance and capacity strengthening for project teams and partners, and identifying training opportunities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant field. A minimum of five years of relevant field-based program management experience is required, with at least three years in middle or senior management roles. Candidates should have experience in developing successful proposals, reports, strategic alliances, project design, project management, and monitoring and evaluation. Proven experience in establishing and advancing local partnerships, staff management, development, training, and mentoring is essential, along with experience in community development and project grants management, preferably for projects funded by multiple public donors.

Educational Background:
A Master's Degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills to effectively manage complex programming and lead teams in challenging environments.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant field-based program management experience, with at least three years in middle or senior management roles. Candidates should have a proven track record in developing successful proposals, project design, and management, as well as experience in community development and grassroots initiatives. Experience in project grants management, including budget preparation and monitoring, is also essential, particularly for projects funded by public donors such as USAID, BMZ, and the EU.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for communication with international partners and stakeholders. Knowledge of Dari is considered a plus, as it would facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders in Afghanistan.

Additional Notes:
The position requires a willingness to travel up to 50%, with frequent travel within Afghanistan and occasional international travel for agency and donor meetings. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a generous retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are 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. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and ensuring that all staff adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.