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Position Title: Central America Director
Location: Guatemala City
Country: Guatemala
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. Established with a mission to help people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities, Mercy Corps has been active in Guatemala for over 20 years, focusing on various programs including rural development, Food Security, and violence prevention. The organization has deep connections to rural communities and aims to expand its operations to address humanitarian needs across Central America, including Honduras and El Salvador.

Job Overview:
The Central America Director at Mercy Corps is a pivotal leadership role responsible for overseeing the organization's programs and operations in Guatemala while spearheading the establishment of new initiatives in Honduras and El Salvador. This position requires a growth-driven leader with extensive experience in managing operations in dynamic environments and formulating strategic directions across multiple contexts. The Director will supervise the Guatemala country team, ensuring compliance with local laws and Mercy Corps policies, while also focusing on program quality and timely implementation. The role involves contributing to proposal development for multi-country programming and ensuring accountability to program participants and donors, with an emphasis on innovative solutions to humanitarian challenges.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Central America Director will be responsible for several key areas:

• Strategy & Vision: Develop and communicate a clear vision for Mercy Corps in Central America, implement the current three-year strategy for Guatemala, and explore new country initiatives and funding opportunities.
• Team Management: Enhance the capacity of the Guatemala team, assist with Career Development, and create a respectful work environment.
• Program Management: Oversee program quality and impact, ensure compliance with donor policies, manage budgets, and maintain operational systems.
• Collaboration: Work closely with regional leadership to set direction and prioritize actions to achieve program objectives, while fostering strong relationships for support and collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong leadership skills, with a proven track record in managing operations and programming in complex environments. They should have experience in strategic planning, team management, and program oversight, along with a deep understanding of humanitarian and development issues. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in international development, public Administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in Humanitarian Response or program management are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in senior management roles within international development or humanitarian organizations. Experience in Emergency response, program expansion, and working in Central America or similar contexts is preferred. A minimum of 7-10 years of relevant experience is typically expected.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish is mandatory, given the location and target communities. Proficiency in English is also required, and knowledge of additional languages relevant to the region would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve travel within Central America. The role is senior-level, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of working in a rapidly changing environment. Compensation and benefits will be competitive and commensurate with experience.