Project Director

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States, established in 194

• The organization operates in more than 100 countries, focusing on saving, protecting, and transforming lives in need, without regard to race, religion, or nationality. CRS has been present in Jerusalem, West Bank, and Gaza since 1961, with field offices in Jerusalem, Gaza, Ramallah, and Bethlehem. The organization is committed to improving the lives of the poor through various programs, including emergency response, health, agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS emphasizes safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse and exploitation, and welcomes candidates from diverse backgrounds who share its values and commitment to service.

Job Overview:
As the Project Director, you will lead and manage the BHA-funded Emergency Response project implemented by CRS in collaboration with local partners. This role involves ensuring the quality of programmatic implementation, including monitoring, evaluation, and learning, as well as overseeing administrative elements of the project. You will be responsible for achieving project results on time and within budget, adapting program management strategies to meet the needs of vulnerable populations in the rapidly changing contexts of Gaza and the West Bank. Your leadership will be crucial in coordinating an integrated response across key sectors such as WASH, Shelter, and Protection, ensuring alignment with the overall emergency response and recovery strategy for the region. You will also be the primary point of contact for BHA and other stakeholders, contributing to strategy updates and managing talent within the project team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your duties will include providing management, guidance, and technical oversight throughout the project cycle, ensuring compliance with CRS quality principles and BHA guidelines. You will coordinate internal efforts to ensure an integrated response across sectors, manage project expenditures in line with financial plans, and oversee the development of monitoring and evaluation systems. Additionally, you will lead the development of program learning, identify performance gaps, and design training opportunities for staff and partners. You will prepare high-quality donor reports and ensure timely communication with consortium partner organizations, fostering a collaborative environment for project implementation.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related technical field. Additional experience may substitute for some educational requirements. A proven track record of successful program management, particularly with BHA/USAID funded programs, is essential. You should have at least 2 years of experience managing such programs and a minimum of 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience. Supervisory experience, including performance evaluation and coaching, is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as International Development or International Relations. Additional experience in program management may be considered in lieu of formal education. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of the complexities involved in international humanitarian work and project management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of relevant field-based project management experience, with a strong preference for those who have managed BHA/USAID funded programs. At least 3 years of supervisory experience is required, demonstrating the ability to lead and mentor teams effectively. Experience in monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) is also essential for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, while proficiency in Arabic is considered a plus. Strong communication skills in both languages will be beneficial for engaging with diverse stakeholders and ensuring effective project implementation.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Jerusalem, with an expected travel requirement of 30% to Gaza and the West Bank, contingent on security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security conditions. The role anticipates supervisory responsibilities for 1-2 Program and/or Project Managers. 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 will be based on the country of employment. The successful candidate will be expected to adhere to CRS's Code of Conduct and commitment to safeguarding vulnerable populations.