Job Summary
As Chief of Party, you will lead and oversee the USDA Food for Peace (Title II) emergency food assistance initiative in Kenya, targeting food-insecure and vulnerable populations—including those in arid and semi-arid regions. Your role will require strong leadership, strategic management, and technical expertise, particularly in commodity handling and large-scale programs funded by the U.S. government, ensuring the implementation of high-caliber programming that solidifies CRS’s reputation as a premier agency in emergency food aid. In this senior leadership position, you will also take a proactive approach to security management, identifying and mitigating potential risks to safeguard operations and personnel.
Hiring Manager seeks a motivated professional to fulfill key roles and responsibilities that drive operational excellence, team collaboration, and strategic execution. The position demands a proactive approach to problem-solving, strong organizational skills, and the ability to prioritize tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment. Primary duties include managing project timelines, fostering interdepartmental communication, and ensuring adherence to company policies and industry standards. Additionally, the role requires meticulous attention to detail, exceptional time management, and the capacity to adapt to evolving business needs. A commitment to continuous improvement, accountability, and delivering measurable results is essential for success in this position.
Oversee the full spectrum of development, execution, and integration of the Food for Peace program in Kenya, guaranteeing alignment with emergency food security goals and USDA mandates.
Act as the main liaison between the organization and key external entities, including the USDA/FAS, U.S. Embassy, and national stakeholders such as 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 meticulously designed and executed to fulfill donor requirements regarding timely and high-quality outcomes, budget adherence, and strategies for phase-out and sustainability, while also incorporating beneficiary targeting, food distribution, and nutrition results. Supervise the implementation of tailored interventions—such as general food distribution, targeted nutrition support, and recovery activities—tailored to address emergency needs effectively.
Offer strategic and technical direction for all commodity management systems, encompassing procurement planning, call forwards, port clearance in Mombasa, inland transport, storage, and distribution.
Coordinate closely with program and operations leads to maintain alignment and synergy across initiatives. Uphold CRS program quality standards in strict accordance with MEAL policies and established procedures to ensure consistency and compliance.
Successfully lead experienced programming and operations professionals while fostering a cohesive team environment and prioritizing staff well-being. Offer guidance, mentorship, and tailored development strategies through personalized performance evaluations for team members. Additionally, develop and implement comprehensive staffing strategies, overseeing the recruitment and selection of top-tier senior talent.
Oversee risk management and mitigation efforts by continuously tracking national and regional developments that could affect personnel or program activities. Verify that all staff members are fully aware of and strictly comply with CRS safety and security policies and protocols, while also ensuring these plans are regularly reviewed and updated.
Demonstrate and reinforce a dedication to maximizing the effective utilization of agency and donor resources. Maintain strict adherence to USDA/FAS grant requirements—including 2 CFR 200—through diligent financial tracking and oversight of partner budgets, financial management, administrative processes, and reporting obligations to USDA. Authorize program expenditures, budget modifications, and donor-requested cost adjustments.
Develop and execute communication strategies and materials that align with USDA branding and marking guidelines. Verify that all program materials and beneficiary communications appropriately acknowledge U.S. Government support.
Coordinate relationships with consortium partner organizations by arranging review and planning workshops as needed. Assist in aligning the roles and responsibilities of staff from other consortium member organizations with implementation efforts, ensuring adherence to CRS partnership principles.
Develop and uphold conducive learning environments while fostering a secure space for open exchange of ideas, solutions, and challenges, along with the ability to promptly detect, assess, and address deficiencies. Evaluate performance gaps and potential training needs among CRS and partner staff, ensuring the creation and implementation of high-quality training programs and technical support initiatives.
Seeking a highly motivated professional with a minimum of three years of experience in a similar role, preferably holding a degree in a relevant field. Must possess strong analytical skills, proficiency in data analysis tools, and the ability to interpret complex information efficiently. Excellent communication and organizational skills are essential. Experience with project management methodologies and a track record of delivering results in fast-paced environments are required. Knowledge of industry-specific regulations and compliance standards is a plus.
Minimum qualifications include a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field or equivalent practical experience, along with at least three years of hands-on experience in a similar role. Proficiency in industry-standard software and tools is essential, as is the ability to analyze complex data sets and derive actionable insights. Strong communication skills, both written and verbal, are required to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams and stakeholders. Additionally, candidates must demonstrate problem-solving capabilities and a commitment to continuous learning in a fast-paced environment.
A bachelor’s degree in international development, International Relations, or a related technical field is required, with a master’s degree considered advantageous.
With a minimum of five to eight years of progressive management and technical expertise, including senior leadership positions on programs funded by the USDA or other U.S. Government agencies.
Proven expertise in overseeing extensive commodity-based initiatives such as Food for Peace or the USDA McGovern-Dole program is required.
Demonstrated proficiency in commodity management systems, logistics, and supply chain operations is required.
Possesses extensive expertise in overseeing intricate financial frameworks, ensuring adherence to donor mandates, and maintaining rigorous fiscal control.
With two years of demonstrated success in managing teams and fostering an environment that supports continuous learning, the ideal candidate will bring strong leadership skills and a commitment to professional development. Prior experience providing guidance and mentorship to senior program staff is essential.
Preferred Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a related field, with a minimum of three years of professional experience in a relevant industry. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in industry-specific software and tools, along with strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Familiarity with project management methodologies and the ability to work collaboratively in a team environment are essential. Excellent communication abilities, both written and verbal, are required to effectively convey complex information to diverse stakeholders. Prior experience in a leadership or mentorship role is highly desirable.
Established authority in the field, evidenced by contributions to peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.
Professional experience in Kenya or comparable environments, particularly in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (BASAL) or during emergency response operations, is required.
Proven track record in overseeing collaborative initiatives involving multiple stakeholders and cultivating strong, sustainable partnerships.
Proficiency in navigating Kenya’s institutional frameworks, including the National Disaster Management Authority (CDMA) and county-level governance systems, is essential.
Demonstrated expertise in either food security initiatives or humanitarian aid operations.
Engaging partners and fostering strong collaborations is essential, with a preference for familiarity with CRS’s partnership strategy.
Proven track record in program management, encompassing oversight of intricate, high-value, multi-faceted projects with complex logistical demands.
Proven track record in managing commodities and coordinating food aid logistics with a high degree of proficiency.
A comprehensive understanding of USG compliance frameworks and donor regulations is required.
Capable of delivering compelling presentations and representing the organization with poise at senior levels.
Proficient in utilizing the MS Office suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Vision, along with web conferencing applications and information and budget management systems.
Seeking a candidate with a strong foundation in the required knowledge, skills, and abilities to excel in the position. The ideal applicant will demonstrate proficiency in key competencies, including problem-solving, communication, and technical expertise. Essential requirements include relevant education or experience, attention to detail, and the capacity to work both independently and collaboratively. Primary responsibilities involve executing tasks with precision, adhering to deadlines, and contributing to team objectives. The role demands adaptability, strong organizational skills, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional growth.
Demonstrates exceptional strategic and analytical capabilities, coupled with strong systems thinking and problem-solving expertise, enabling a comprehensive perspective to facilitate well-informed decisions and sound judgment.
Exceptional interpersonal skills are essential, enabling seamless collaboration with individuals at every organizational level, both internally and externally. You must demonstrate a strategic mindset in cultivating and nurturing each relationship, ensuring alignment with broader objectives.
Proven ability to lead and inspire teams composed of individuals from diverse backgrounds and professional disciplines. Strong aptitude for mentoring and developing team members through effective coaching techniques.
Skilled in crafting clear, compelling communications and delivering engaging presentations, with a proven ability to adapt messaging to resonate with diverse audiences.
Resourceful, proactive, and driven by solutions, we are seeking an individual who is committed to achieving measurable results.
Required Languages: Fluency in English is mandatory.
Must possess the flexibility and availability to undertake travel, as needed, to various field locations, which may include remote BASAL counties, at a frequency of up to 30% of the role’s requirements.
Agency Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
All CRS personnel are expected to demonstrate proficiency in a range of fundamental skills essential for effective performance across the organization. These competencies encompass adaptability to evolving challenges, a commitment to ethical integrity, and the ability to collaborate seamlessly within diverse teams. Additionally, staff must uphold a strong dedication to delivering high-quality results while maintaining alignment with CRS’s mission and strategic objectives. Proficiency in cross-cultural communication, problem-solving, and resource management is also required to ensure successful execution of duties in varied operational contexts.
Demonstrates a strong sense of personal accountability by consistently owning and taking responsibility for one’s actions.
Demonstrates unwavering integrity by consistently embodying the values outlined in CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Known for honesty and ethical conduct in all professional interactions.
Demonstrates unwavering reliability by ensuring actions consistently align with stated commitments, fostering trust through transparent and dependable behavior.
Collaborates effectively with colleagues across various cultures and backgrounds, fostering an inclusive and cohesive team environment.
Open-minded and eager to grow, this role actively pursues experiences that broaden perspectives and foster continuous learning.
As essential competencies for agency leadership, candidates must demonstrate strategic vision, effective decision-making capabilities, and strong communication skills to inspire and guide teams toward organizational goals. Proficiency in stakeholder engagement, financial acumen, and change management is crucial for navigating complex challenges and fostering innovation. Additionally, the ability to cultivate a high-performing culture, prioritize ethical leadership, and drive accountability is required to ensure sustainable growth and operational excellence. Candidates should also exhibit adaptability in dynamic environments and a commitment to continuous professional development to maintain a competitive edge in leadership roles.
Continuously seeks opportunities to enhance the agency by fostering an environment centered on adaptability, transparency, and inventive thinking.
Develops and Acknowledges Others – Empowers team members to achieve their highest capabilities while fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment for both the team and the organization.
A strategic mindset is required, enabling the ability to interpret, convey, and execute agency strategy and team priorities effectively.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 - 8 years
