Job Summary
As the Chief of Party, you will lead and oversee the USDA Food for Peace (Title II) emergency food assistance program in Kenya, delivering critical support to food-insecure and vulnerable populations, including those in arid and semi-arid lands (ASALs). Your responsibilities will encompass strategic leadership, operational management, and technical expertise—particularly in commodity management and large-scale USG-funded initiatives—to ensure the implementation of high-quality programs and reinforce CRS’s reputation as a premier emergency food assistance agency. In this senior role, you will also take a forward-thinking approach to security management, actively addressing and minimizing potential risks.
The core roles and key responsibilities encompass a diverse range of duties designed to support organizational objectives and drive operational excellence. This position requires a dynamic individual capable of managing multiple priorities while maintaining a high standard of performance and accountability. Essential tasks include strategic planning, project execution, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure seamless workflow integration. Additionally, the role demands strong analytical skills to evaluate performance metrics, identify trends, and implement data-driven improvements. Effective communication and stakeholder management are also critical to fostering productive relationships and aligning teams with overarching goals.
Oversee every facet of the Food for Peace program’s development, execution, and integration in Kenya, guaranteeing strict adherence to emergency food security goals and USDA mandates.
Act as the main liaison with USDA/FAS, U.S. Embassy, and key national stakeholders, such as the National Drought Management Authority (CDMA), relevant line ministries, and humanitarian coordination platforms.
Facilitate robust collaboration with public, private, and non-governmental stakeholders to enhance overall effectiveness and eliminate redundant efforts.
The project must be meticulously designed and executed to fulfill donor requirements regarding timely, high-quality deliverables, budget adherence, and sustainable phase-out strategies, while also prioritizing beneficiary targeting, food distribution, and nutritional outcomes. Additionally, the role involves supervising the implementation of tailored interventions—such as general food distribution, targeted nutrition support, and recovery activities—that are fully aligned with urgent emergency needs.
Deliver strategic and technical direction for all commodity management systems, encompassing procurement planning, call forwards, port clearance (Mombasa), inland transport, storage, and distribution.
Facilitate seamless collaboration between program and operations leads to maintain alignment and efficiency. Verify compliance with CRS program quality standards as outlined in MEAL policy and procedures to uphold consistency and excellence.
Proactively lead senior programming and operations teams while fostering a positive team culture and prioritizing staff well-being. Deliver targeted coaching and mentoring to drive performance and professional growth. Customize individual development strategies and conduct thorough performance evaluations for all direct reports. Spearhead the creation of comprehensive staffing plans and oversee the end-to-end recruitment process for senior-level positions.
Oversee risk mitigation by continuously monitoring national and regional developments that could pose threats to staff and programming. Guarantee that all personnel fully comprehend and comply with CRS’s staff safety and security policies and protocols, while also ensuring these plans remain current and effective.
Demonstrate and reinforce a steadfast dedication to maximizing the impact of agency and donor resources through responsible stewardship. Oversee adherence to USDA/FAS grant regulations—including 2 CFR 200—by meticulously monitoring financial activities, partner budgets, fiscal administration, and reporting obligations to USDA. Authorize program expenditures, budget revisions, and donor-requested cost adjustments with diligence and precision.
Develop and implement communication strategies and materials that adhere to USDA branding and marking guidelines. Verify that all program materials and beneficiary communications appropriately acknowledge U.S. Government support.
Coordinate partnerships with consortium member organizations, facilitating the organization of review and planning workshops. Collaborate in aligning the roles and activities of staff from other consortium member organizations with implementation efforts, ensuring adherence to CRS partnership principles.
Develop and sustain optimal learning environments while fostering a secure space for open dialogue, collaboration, and problem-solving. Monitor and address performance deficiencies promptly by assessing gaps and identifying training needs for CRS and partner staff. Design and implement high-quality training programs alongside technical assistance to enhance overall effectiveness.
Seeking a highly motivated individual with a strong background in [relevant field] and proficiency in [specific skills/tools]. Candidates must possess a [degree/certification] in [field] or a related discipline, along with [X years] of hands-on experience in [key area]. Exceptional analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are essential, alongside the ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Familiarity with [specific software, methodologies, or industry standards] is highly desirable.
Seeking candidates with a high school diploma or equivalent, along with a minimum of one year of relevant work experience, for this entry-level position. Proficiency in basic computer applications and strong communication skills are essential requirements. The ideal applicant must demonstrate reliability, attention to detail, and the ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team. Additional qualifications may include relevant certifications or vocational training, depending on the specific role.
A bachelor’s degree in international development, international relations, or a related technical field is required, with a master’s degree considered advantageous.
7+ years of progressive management and technical expertise, with a minimum of 5 years in senior leadership capacities on programs funded by the USDA or USG.
Proven track record in overseeing expansive commodity-driven initiatives, such as the Food for Peace program or the USDA McGovern-Dole initiative, is required.
Demonstrates extensive experience in commodity management systems, logistics, and supply chain operations.
Seasoned professional with extensive expertise in overseeing intricate financial frameworks, ensuring adherence to donor mandates, and maintaining rigorous fiscal governance.
With a minimum of two years in staff management, demonstrated aptitude for fostering a learning-centric atmosphere is required. Additionally, proven experience in mentoring senior program staff is necessary.
Preferred Qualifications: Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field, along with two or more years of hands-on experience in software development or a comparable technical capacity. Proficiency in programming languages such as Python, Java, or C++ is essential, alongside familiarity with frameworks like Django, Spring, or .NET. Candidates should possess strong problem-solving abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to work collaboratively in cross-functional teams. Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS or Azure, as well as DevOps practices, is highly advantageous. Knowledge of database management systems, including SQL and NoSQL solutions, is required.
Esteemed authority within the industry, evidenced by a robust portfolio of peer-reviewed publications, keynote addresses at leading conferences, and other distinguished scholarly contributions.
We seek candidates with prior experience in Kenya or comparable environments, particularly regions facing arid or semi-arid conditions or engaged in emergency response operations.
Experience managing multi-partner consortia and partnership strengthening.
Proficiency in navigating Kenya’s government frameworks, including the National Disaster Management Authority (CDMA) and county administrative systems, is essential.
Demonstrated excellence in leadership within the realms of food security or humanitarian response.
Experience engaging partners and strengthening partnerships. Knowledge of CRS partnership strategy a plus.
Proven expertise in program management, encompassing the oversight of intricate, high-value, multi-faceted projects characterized by intricate logistical challenges.
Proven proficiency in managing commodity procurement and overseeing the logistics of food aid distribution is essential.
Proven expertise in navigating USG compliance frameworks and adhering to donor regulations is essential.
Capable of delivering compelling presentations and representing the organization with the utmost professionalism at all levels.
Proficient in utilizing the MS Office suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Vision, along with web conferencing applications and systems for managing information and budgets.
We are seeking a candidate who possesses a strong foundation in relevant expertise, technical capabilities, and interpersonal strengths. The ideal applicant must demonstrate proficiency in key areas of specialization, along with the ability to apply these skills effectively in a professional setting. Additionally, they should exhibit both problem-solving acumen and collaborative aptitude to ensure seamless integration and high performance within our team.
Demonstrates exceptional strategic and analytical abilities, coupled with strong systems thinking and problem-solving expertise, enabling a comprehensive perspective and the capacity to make informed, sound judgments and decisions.
Exceptional interpersonal skills with a proven capacity to engage effectively with individuals across all organizational levels, both internally and externally. Demonstrates a thoughtful, strategic approach in cultivating and maintaining each professional relationship.
Demonstrates strong leadership capabilities in guiding and managing teams composed of diverse backgrounds and multidisciplinary expertise. Possesses excellent coaching skills to develop and support team members effectively.
Skilled in crafting and delivering tailored, compelling communications and presentations, effectively engaging diverse audiences with persuasive messaging.
Proactive, resourceful, solutions-focused, and committed to delivering measurable results, this individual demonstrates a strong ability to anticipate challenges and take decisive action. With a results-driven mindset, they consistently seek innovative approaches to achieve objectives efficiently and effectively.
Proficient in English is a mandatory requirement for this role.
Must be prepared to undertake domestic travel, accounting for up to 30% of the role’s requirements, to various field locations, including remote areas within BASAL counties.
Agency Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
Proficient communication skills are essential for effectively conveying information and fostering collaboration within the organization. Demonstrated capacity to work collaboratively in diverse teams is crucial for achieving shared objectives. Adaptability to evolving circumstances and a willingness to embrace change are likewise required. Sound judgment and ethical decision-making underpin all professional interactions and operations. Emphasis is placed on maintaining high standards of professional conduct and integrity in all duties performed. Active engagement in continuous learning and professional development opportunities is encouraged to enhance individual and organizational growth.
Consistently demonstrates personal accountability by owning actions and outcomes with integrity and transparency.
Consistently upholds ethical standards by embodying the CRS Guiding Principles and mission with unwavering honesty and integrity in all actions.
Demonstrates unwavering reliability by ensuring actions consistently align with stated commitments, fostering trust through transparent and dependable conduct.
Fosters synergistic partnerships by engaging constructively with colleagues from varied cultural backgrounds and diverse team environments.
Open to learn actively pursues opportunities that broaden perspectives and foster growth by embracing transformative experiences and acquiring new knowledge.
Agency leadership competencies encompass a comprehensive set of essential skills and attributes required for effective leadership within a professional setting. These competencies typically include strategic thinking, decision-making, and the ability to inspire and motivate teams. Additionally, strong communication skills, adaptability, and a commitment to fostering innovation are often emphasized. Ethical leadership, emotional intelligence, and the capacity to navigate complex challenges are also critical components. These competencies ensure that leaders can drive organizational success, align teams with strategic objectives, and cultivate a positive and productive work environment.
Drives transformational change by proactively identifying opportunities for enhancement, fostering a workplace culture rooted in adaptability, transparency, and creative problem-solving.
Builds and nurtures the capabilities of staff members, empowering them to achieve their highest potential while elevating overall team and agency effectiveness.
Demonstrates a strategic perspective by recognizing the importance of aligning individual contributions with agency objectives and team priorities, while effectively translating, communicating, and executing strategic initiatives.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 - 8 years
