Chief of Party (CoP)

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to address humanitarian crises and development challenges, Mercy Corps operates in more than 40 countries worldwide. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Since its inception, Mercy Corps has reached over one million people in Colombia through its humanitarian and development activities, particularly focusing on supporting the implementation of Colombia’s peace agreements and Sustainable Development Goals.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Party (CoP) will lead the anticipated USDA-funded Food for Progress (FFPr) project in Colombia, which aims to enhance agricultural productivity and expand trade of agricultural products. The CoP will be responsible for providing overall leadership, management, and strategic vision for the project, ensuring that it meets its targets and deliverables on time and within budget. This role involves supervising all project staff, ensuring compliance with Mercy Corps policies and donor regulations, and representing the project to USDA and other stakeholders. The FFPr project is expected to last five years, starting around October 1, 2025.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The CoP will lead the development of a vision and strategy for the FFPr project, ensuring alignment with staff, consortium, and key stakeholders. Responsibilities include overseeing project management and administration, providing strategic guidance, and ensuring compliance with donor expectations. The CoP will monitor implementation progress, manage risks, and ensure that project activities are responsive to community needs. Additionally, the CoP will oversee recruitment and onboarding of project staff, promote accountability, and develop team capacity. Financial management, compliance with USDA regulations, and representation of Mercy Corps at relevant events are also key responsibilities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as agricultural economics, crop science, or development studies. A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in international development activities is required, with at least five years in senior project management roles. Experience with USDA Food for Progress or similar projects is highly preferred, along with a strong background in agricultural development, export and trade promotion, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-programming" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security programming. Excellent communication skills, strategic thinking, and interpersonal abilities are essential.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally include studies in agricultural economics, crop science, development studies, or related disciplines that provide the necessary knowledge and skills for managing agricultural development projects.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in international development, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience in agricultural development and food security programming. At least five years of this experience should be in senior project management roles, demonstrating the ability to lead teams and manage complex projects effectively. Experience with USDA or similar high-profile U.S. government donors is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is crucial for effective communication with diverse stakeholders, including local communities, government officials, and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Bogotá, Colombia, and requires up to 40% travel to other regions, which may include areas with limited amenities and security concerns. The role offers expatriate benefits for international candidates, including individual housing. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization values diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment free from discrimination, ensuring respect and dignity for all individuals involved.