Chief of Party I - McGovern Dole Food for Education Program

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established to save, protect, and transform lives in need, CRS operates in more than 100 countries, providing relief and development assistance 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 diverse faiths and secular traditions who share its values and commitment to serving those in need. The agency's work culture is collaborative and mission-driven, aimed at improving the lives of the poor globally. CRS has a strong commitment to safeguarding program participants and ensuring the dignity of all individuals involved in its programs.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Party I will lead and manage the USDA McGovern Dole Food for Education (MGD/FFE) project in Pakistan, specifically in the Sindh province. This role involves providing strategic leadership and ensuring the successful implementation of the project, which aims to develop a sustainable school feeding program alongside complementary literacy, nutrition, and school WASH interventions. The Chief of Party will serve as the primary liaison with USDA and other stakeholders, ensuring that the project meets donor expectations for quality and timely results. The position requires proactive management of security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security risks and the ability to navigate complex relationships with government and partner organizations. The Chief of Party will also be responsible for fostering a positive team environment, promoting staff well-being, and ensuring compliance with all relevant policies and procedures.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Party I will lead the development, implementation, and consolidation of the MGD/FFE project, ensuring it aligns with industry thought leadership. Responsibilities include serving as the main point of contact for USDA and other stakeholders, advocating for sustainable project interventions, and ensuring compliance with donor expectations. The role involves managing senior programming and operations staff, overseeing recruitment processes, and ensuring adherence to safety and security policies. The Chief of Party will also develop communication strategies, coordinate with consortium partners, and create a conducive learning environment for staff. Additionally, the position requires monitoring national and regional issues that may impact programming and staff safety, as well as ensuring efficient use of agency and donor resources.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant technical area, with a PhD preferred. A minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience at a senior level is required, along with at least 5 years of experience managing donor funds, particularly with USDA or USAID Title II. Strong knowledge and experience in budget management and staff management are essential, as well as the ability to foster a learning environment and coach senior program staff. Candidates should demonstrate strong strategic, analytical, and problem-solving skills, along with the ability to manage diverse teams and build effective relationships with stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as International Development or International Relations. A PhD is preferred, indicating a higher level of expertise and knowledge in the field. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of international development and program management in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience, particularly in complex, high-value projects. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience managing donor funds, with a strong preference for those who have worked with USDA or USAID Title II programs. Experience in staff management and the ability to create a supportive learning environment are also critical for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Additionally, a working ability in a Pakistani language is desirable, which would facilitate communication and engagement with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is anticipated to be based in Karachi, with a willingness to travel up to 30% to project sites and occasional visits to Islamabad. The role involves supervisory responsibilities over program, operations, finance/grants, MEAL, and government liaison leads, depending on project needs. CRS offers a comprehensive benefits package for U.S.-based staff, including medical, dental, life insurance, vision, and a retirement savings plan. For candidates employed outside the U.S., benefits packages are based on the country of employment. The agency emphasizes its commitment to safeguarding the rights and dignity of all individuals involved in its programs, and candidates are expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct.