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, ensuring support for food-insecure and vulnerable populations—particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. Your role will involve strategic leadership, program management, and technical expertise, with a strong emphasis on commodity management and large-scale initiatives funded by the U.S. government. This will ensure the implementation of high-quality programming and strengthen CRS’s reputation as a premier agency in emergency food assistance. Additionally, as a senior leader, you will take a proactive approach to security management, identifying and mitigating risks to safeguard operations and personnel.
Overseeing a comprehensive range of duties and core accountabilities, this position entails managing critical tasks and ensuring adherence to established protocols. The role demands meticulous attention to detail, strong organizational capabilities, and the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams. Responsibilities include executing strategic initiatives, maintaining compliance with industry standards, and fostering continuous improvement within the department. Additionally, the position requires proficiency in relevant tools and technologies, as well as a commitment to delivering high-quality results in a dynamic work environment.
Oversee the comprehensive development, execution, and integration of the Food for Peace program in Kenya, guaranteeing alignment with emergency food security goals and USDA compliance standards.
Act as the main liaison between the organization and key entities such as USDA/FAS, U.S. Embassy, and national stakeholders—including the National Drought Management Authority (CDMA), relevant line ministries, and humanitarian coordination platforms.
Collaborate effectively with public, private, and non-governmental partners to enhance collective impact and prevent redundant efforts.
Ensure the project is strategically designed and executed to fulfill donor requirements regarding punctual and high-quality deliverables, budget adherence, and long-term sustainability, including clear phase-out and sustainability strategies. Additionally, prioritize beneficiary targeting, food distribution, and measurable nutrition outcomes. Supervise the implementation of tailored interventions—such as general food distribution, targeted nutrition support, and recovery activities—tailored to address evolving emergency needs.
Deliver strategic and technical guidance for the full spectrum of commodity management systems, encompassing procurement planning, call forwards, port clearance procedures in Mombasa, inland transportation, storage solutions, and distribution networks.
Facilitate seamless collaboration between program and operations leads to maintain alignment and efficiency. Verify adherence to CRS program quality standards in accordance with MEAL policies and procedures.
Successfully lead senior programming and operations professionals while fostering strong team dynamics and prioritizing staff well-being. Offer targeted coaching and mentorship to support growth. Develop and implement individualized development strategies, conduct thorough performance evaluations for direct reports, and oversee the creation of staffing plans and recruitment initiatives for senior-level positions.
Oversee risk management by continuously assessing national and regional developments that could affect staff and program activities. Guarantee full comprehension and compliance among all personnel with CRS safety and security policies and protocols, while also maintaining the currency of these measures.
Promote, maintain, and exemplify a dedication to the prudent utilization of agency and donor resources. Oversee adherence to USDA/FAS grant regulations—including 2 CFR 200—while managing financial tracking, partner budget oversight, fiscal administration, and USDA reporting obligations. Authorize program expenditures, budget revisions, and donor-requested cost modifications as needed.
Develop and implement communication strategies and materials in strict adherence to USDA branding and marking guidelines. Verify that all program materials and beneficiary communications appropriately acknowledge U.S. Government support.
Collaborate with consortium partner organizations by facilitating review and planning workshops, ensuring alignment with established objectives. Assist in coordinating the roles and responsibilities of staff from consortium member organizations, ensuring activities are executed in accordance with CRS partnership principles.
We foster optimal learning conditions by cultivating a secure space that encourages the open exchange of ideas, solutions, and challenges while enabling rapid identification, analysis, and resolution of deficiencies. Additionally, we assess performance gaps and training needs within CRS and partner staff, designing and delivering high-quality training programs and technical assistance to address them effectively.
Seeking a candidate with a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting, Finance, or a related field, complemented by at least three years of progressive experience in financial management or accounting roles. Proficiency in Excel, QuickBooks, or similar accounting software is essential, along with strong analytical, organizational, and communication skills. The ideal applicant will demonstrate meticulous attention to detail, the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment, and a commitment to maintaining confidentiality. Prior experience in financial reporting, budget preparation, or audit support is highly advantageous.
Ensures the fulfillment of fundamental prerequisites, including a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent practical experience, and proficiency in essential technical or industry-specific tools and methodologies. Demonstrates strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities, along with effective communication and teamwork skills. Maintains a commitment to continuous learning and adaptability to evolving professional demands. Familiarity with compliance standards, regulatory requirements, or best practices pertinent to the role is also necessary.
A bachelor’s degree in international development, international relations, or a related technical field is required; a master’s degree is preferred.
Seeking candidates with at least five to eight years of progressive management and technical expertise, encompassing senior leadership positions in programs funded by the USDA or other U.S. government agencies.
Experienced in overseeing expansive commodity-driven initiatives, such as Food for Peace or the USDA McGovern-Dole program.
Experienced in overseeing commodity management systems, logistics, and supply chain operations with a strong track record of success.
Proven 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 and a track record of fostering a collaborative learning environment, the ideal candidate will bring demonstrated expertise in coaching senior program staff.
Preferred Qualifications:
– Experience with accounting software (e.g., QuickBooks, NetSuite)
– Familiarity with financial reporting and compliance standards
– Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
– Exceptional attention to detail and organizational abilities
– Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
– Previous experience in a fast-paced environment
– Knowledge of Excel, including pivot tables and LOOKUP
– Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Esteemed authority within the field, evidenced by distinguished contributions such as peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and other scholarly endeavors.
Proficiency in working within Kenyan settings or comparable environments, particularly in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (BASAL) regions or during emergency response operations, is essential.
Proven track record in leading and overseeing multipartner consortia, with a focus on enhancing collaboration and partnership effectiveness.
Possesses comprehensive knowledge of Kenya’s governmental frameworks, including the National Disaster Management Authority (CDMA) and county-level administrative systems.
Demonstrates exceptional leadership capabilities in the domains of food security or humanitarian response, with a proven track record of impactful contributions in either field.
Engage partners effectively and cultivate strong, mutually beneficial relationships. Familiarity with CRS partnership strategy is advantageous.
Proven track record in overseeing program management initiatives, specifically in directing intricate, high-value, multi-faceted projects that involve complex logistics.
Professional rewrite:
Established proficiency in overseeing commodity management and coordinating food aid logistics is required.
Thorough understanding of U.S. government (USG) compliance frameworks and donor regulations is required.
Demonstrates exceptional proficiency in articulating and delivering high-level presentations and representations with clarity and professionalism.
Proficiency with the Microsoft Office suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Vision, as well as expertise in web conferencing applications and systems for managing information and budgets, is required.
Demonstrated proficiency in applying specialized expertise and practical competencies essential for fulfilling role requirements. Capable of executing tasks with precision and adapting methodologies as needed. Demonstrates strong analytical thinking, problem-solving aptitude, and meticulous attention to detail. Exhibits effective communication skills, both written and verbal, to articulate complex information clearly. Able to collaborate seamlessly within cross-functional teams, fostering productive working relationships. Proven ability to prioritize tasks efficiently, manage deadlines, and deliver high-quality results under pressure. Committed to continuous professional development and staying current with industry trends and best practices.
Strong strategic and analytical abilities, coupled with proficient systems thinking and problem-solving expertise, enable the ability to discern overarching patterns and deliver well-informed judgments and decisions.
Exceptional skills in managing and nurturing professional relationships are essential. You must effectively engage with individuals across all organizational levels, both within the company and externally. A strategic mindset is required to cultivate and maintain these connections thoughtfully.
Demonstrates strong leadership in guiding and motivating teams with diverse backgrounds and areas of expertise. Proficient in coaching and mentoring team members to enhance performance and foster professional growth.
Able to craft compelling, audience-specific messaging through strong communication and presentation skills, ensuring persuasiveness across diverse groups.
Proactive, resourceful, and driven by innovative problem-solving, this role requires a steadfast commitment to achieving measurable outcomes.
Fluency in English is a mandatory requirement for this position.
Must be prepared to travel up to 30% of the time to field locations, which may include remote BASAL counties.
Agency Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
All CRS employees are expected to demonstrate proficiency across a range of core competencies essential to the organization’s mission and operational success. These competencies encompass professional integrity, accountability, and a commitment to inclusive and equitable practices in all aspects of work. Additionally, staff must exhibit strong communication skills, adaptability in dynamic environments, and the ability to collaborate effectively across diverse teams and cultures. Technical expertise relevant to specific roles, combined with a dedication to continuous learning and improvement, further supports their capacity to deliver high-quality results.
Personal accountability involves steadfastly assuming ownership of one’s decisions and the resulting outcomes, demonstrating reliability and integrity in all professional endeavors.
Demonstrates unwavering integrity by consistently upholding the values outlined in the CRS Guiding Principles and mission statement. Serves as a trusted professional who embodies honesty and ethical behavior in all interactions and decision-making processes.
Demonstrates unwavering reliability by ensuring alignment between stated commitments and executed actions, thereby fostering confidence and trust among colleagues and stakeholders.
Works effectively with colleagues across various cultures and backgrounds, fostering a collaborative and inclusive team environment.
Open to learn actively pursues experiences designed to reshape perspectives or facilitate the acquisition of new knowledge.
Agency Leadership Competencies encompass a comprehensive set of skills and attributes essential for guiding and overseeing organizational success. Key requirements include strategic vision, effective communication, and the ability to inspire and motivate teams. Leadership responsibilities involve fostering a collaborative work environment, driving innovation, and ensuring alignment with agency goals. Additionally, competencies may include financial acumen, decision-making prowess, and a commitment to continuous improvement and professional development. These capabilities are critical for achieving operational excellence and maintaining high performance within the agency.
Demonstrate leadership in transformation by proactively identifying opportunities to enhance the agency’s performance through an agile, transparent, and inventive culture.
Fosters the growth and recognition of team members by empowering them to maximize their potential, thereby strengthening both individual and organizational performance.
Comprehends the importance of aligning individual contributions with broader organizational objectives, translating strategic direction into actionable plans, and effectively communicating priorities to ensure cohesive team execution.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 - 8 years
