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Position Title: Deputy Chief of Party II - Feed the Future Resilient Food Systems, DRC
Location: Matadi, Tshimbulu
Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Catholic Relief Services (CRS) is the official international humanitarian agency of the Catholic community in the United States. Established in 1943, CRS works to save, protect, and transform lives in need across more than 100 countries, without regard to race, religion, or nationality. The organization focuses on various areas including emergency response, health, Agriculture, education, microfinance, and peacebuilding. CRS has been operational in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since 1961, implementing programs that address nutrition, agriculture, livelihoods, emergency response, water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH), health, and microfinance. The organization is committed to safeguarding vulnerable populations and ensuring compliance with ethical standards in all its operations.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Chief of Party II will oversee the management of the Agriculture and Market Systems Development component of the Feed the Future Resilient Food Systems project. This role involves acting on behalf of the Chief of Party when necessary, including representing the organization to donors and stakeholders. The Deputy Chief of Party II will ensure the delivery of high-quality programming and contribute to the advancement of CRS as a leading agency in the agricultural sector, particularly in Market Systems Development. The position requires proactive management of security and risk mitigation, ensuring that the project meets donor expectations and adheres to CRS program quality standards. The Deputy Chief of Party II will also play a crucial role in fostering a positive team environment and supporting staff development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Chief of Party II will manage key aspects of the Feed the Future Flagship Agriculture Activity project, serving as a primary contact for USAID and other stakeholders. Responsibilities include managing project functions to meet donor expectations, ensuring Coordination between program and operations leads, and adhering to CRS program quality standards. The role involves effective Talent Management, including coaching, mentoring, and performance assessments for direct reports. The Deputy Chief of Party II will monitor national and regional issues that may impact staff and programming, ensuring compliance with safety and Security Policies. Additionally, the position requires maintaining relationships with consortium partners, facilitating learning opportunities, and identifying training needs for staff and partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in agriculture, agronomy, natural Resource Management, international development, rural development, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience in agriculture, agribusiness, or food systems/value chain Development Projects is required. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience managing donor funds, including multi-country grants, and demonstrate strong knowledge and experience in budget management. Recognized technical expertise in the sector, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications or conference presentations, is essential. Experience in managing complex, high-value projects with complicated logistics and staff management abilities conducive to a learning environment are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as agriculture, agronomy, natural resource management, international development, or rural development is mandatory for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of agricultural systems and market development, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of relevant management and technical experience in agriculture, agribusiness, or food systems/value chain development projects. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience managing donor funds, particularly in multi-country contexts, and demonstrate a strong track record in budget management and project oversight. Experience in leading complex projects in challenging environments is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, along with at least professional proficiency in French. These language skills are essential for effective communication with stakeholders, including donors and local partners, and for ensuring the successful implementation of the project in a bilingual context.

Additional Notes:
This position is contingent on donor funding and approval of the candidate. The role is based in Matadi, Kongo Central, with a second position located in Tshimbulu, Kasai Central. The anticipated travel requirement is up to 35%. The position is likely to have between 3-6 direct reports and involves significant interaction with various stakeholders, including donors, partner organizations, and government entities. CRS is committed to safeguarding program participants and staff from exploitation and abuse, and the successful candidate will be expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct.