Job Summary
As the Chief of Party, you will lead and oversee the USDA Food for Peace (Title II) emergency food assistance initiative in Kenya, focusing on food-insecure and vulnerable populations, including those in arid and semi-arid regions (Nasals). Your role will involve strategic leadership, operational management, and specialized expertise—particularly in commodity management and large-scale U.S. government-funded programs—to ensure the implementation of high-quality initiatives and reinforce CRS’s reputation as a premier agency in emergency food assistance. In this senior leadership position, you will also take a proactive approach to managing security and minimizing potential risks.
The position entails a comprehensive range of duties and obligations, each designed to ensure operational excellence and strategic alignment. Key responsibilities include overseeing project execution, managing cross-functional teams, and driving performance metrics to meet organizational objectives. Additionally, the role requires meticulous attention to detail in financial oversight, compliance adherence, and risk mitigation strategies. Collaboration with stakeholders at all levels is essential, as is the ability to analyze complex data and translate insights into actionable initiatives. This role demands a proactive approach to problem-solving, exceptional communication skills, and a relentless commitment to achieving measurable results.
Oversee the entire process of developing, executing, and integrating the Food for Peace program in Kenya, guaranteeing alignment with emergency food security goals and USDA standards.
Act as the main liaison with USDA/FAS, the U.S. Embassy, and key national stakeholders, such as the National Drought Management Authority (CDMA), relevant line ministries, and humanitarian coordination platforms.
Foster robust collaboration with public, private, and non-governmental stakeholders to enhance overall effectiveness and prevent redundant efforts.
The project must be developed and executed to fulfill donor requirements regarding timely, high-quality deliverables, budget adherence, and strategies for both phase-out and long-term sustainability, while also prioritizing beneficiary targeting, food distribution, and improved nutrition outcomes. Additionally, the role involves supervising the implementation of tailored interventions—such as general food distribution, targeted nutrition support, and recovery initiatives—in direct alignment with emergency response needs.
Furnish strategic and technical guidance across all commodity management systems, encompassing procurement planning, call forwards, port clearance (Mombasa), inland transport, storage, and distribution.
Ensure seamless collaboration between program and operations leads to maintain alignment and efficiency. Verify adherence to CRS program quality standards as outlined in MEAL policies and procedures to uphold accountability and excellence.
Responsible for overseeing and guiding high-performing programming and operations teams, ensuring optimal team dynamics and fostering a positive work environment. Provide leadership through coaching, mentoring, and tailored development strategies to enhance individual growth and performance. Develop and implement strategic staffing plans, overseeing the recruitment and onboarding of senior-level talent while conducting thorough performance evaluations for direct reports.
Oversee risk management and mitigation efforts by continuously assessing national and regional developments that could pose threats to staff or programming. Facilitate staff comprehension and compliance with CRS safety and security policies and plans while ensuring these protocols remain current and effective.
Promote, maintain, and exemplify a dedication to the responsible and effective utilization of agency and donor resources. Oversee adherence to USDA/FAS grant regulations—including 2 CFR 200—by managing financial tracking, partner budget oversight, finance and administration, and USDA reporting requirements. Authorize program expenditures, budget adjustments, and donor cost modification requests.
Develop and manage communication strategies and materials in strict accordance with USDA branding and marking guidelines. Verify that all program materials and beneficiary communications appropriately acknowledge U.S. Government support.
Coordinate interactions with partner organizations within the consortium, particularly by organizing review and planning workshops. Support the alignment of roles and activities among staff from various consortium member organizations during implementation, ensuring adherence to CRS partnership principles.
Create and uphold conducive conditions for effective learning while fostering a secure atmosphere where ideas, solutions, and challenges can be openly shared. Develop the ability to promptly identify, assess, and address deficiencies through timely detection and response. Evaluate performance gaps and identify training needs for CRS and partner staff, then ensure the development and implementation of high-quality training programs and technical assistance.
Qualifications
Demonstrated proficiency in [specific skill or tool] with at least [X years] of relevant experience is required. A minimum of a [degree level] in [related field] is necessary, along with the ability to [specific competency]. Familiarity with [industry-standard software, methodology, or framework] is preferred, and strong analytical skills are essential. Candidates must exhibit excellent communication abilities and the capacity to thrive in a collaborative setting.
A Bachelor’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related technical discipline is required, with a Master’s degree preferred.
Seeking candidates with five to eight years of progressive management and technical expertise, encompassing senior leadership positions on programs funded by the USDA or USG.
Experienced professionals with a proven track record in overseeing extensive commodity-focused initiatives—such as Food for Peace or the USDA McGovern-Dole program—are encouraged to apply.
Experienced in overseeing and optimizing commodity management systems, logistics, and supply chain operations.
Proven expertise in handling intricate budgets, ensuring donor compliance, and maintaining meticulous financial oversight.
With at least two years of experience in leading and developing teams, you possess the skills necessary to foster a productive and educational workplace. Additionally, you have a proven track record of mentoring and guiding senior program staff to enhance their performance and professional growth.
Preferred Qualifications:
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, or a related field. Experience with cloud platforms such as AWS, Azure, or GCP. Proficiency in programming languages like Python, Java, or JavaScript. Familiarity with containerization technologies, including Docker and Kubernetes. Understanding of CI/CD pipelines and DevOps practices. Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently. Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Renowned industry authority evidenced by peer-reviewed publications, keynote addresses, and conference contributions.
Professionals with prior work experience in Kenya or comparable environments—particularly in Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (BASAL) regions or during emergency response operations—are strongly encouraged to apply.
Proven track record in overseeing collaborative multipartner consortiums and enhancing partnership efficacy.
Proficiency in navigating Kenya’s government frameworks, including the National Disaster Management Authority (CDMA) and county-level administrative systems, is essential.
Demonstrated expertise in addressing food security challenges or leading impactful humanitarian initiatives.
Seeking an individual who has a proven track record of effectively engaging with partners and cultivating robust collaborations. Familiarity with CRS’s partnership strategy is advantageous.
Proven expertise in overseeing program management initiatives, encompassing leadership of intricate, high-value, multi-faceted projects that involve intricate logistical coordination.
Experienced professionals with a strong background in managing commodities and coordinating food aid logistics will be considered for this role.
Demonstrates in-depth expertise in adhering to USG compliance frameworks and donor regulations.
Capable of delivering high-level representation and presentations with professionalism and confidence.
Proficient in utilizing the MS Office suite, including Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Vision, as well as web conferencing applications and information and budget management systems.
Seeking a professional equipped with a robust foundation of relevant expertise, technical competencies, and essential proficiencies to fulfill the role effectively. Candidates must demonstrate a track record of applying specialized capabilities, problem-solving acumen, and industry-relevant qualifications to meet organizational objectives. Responsibilities include executing core functions with precision, collaborating across teams, and maintaining adherence to established standards while contributing to strategic initiatives. The ideal applicant will possess the necessary credentials, hands-on experience, and adaptability to thrive in dynamic environments.
Individuals must demonstrate exceptional strategic and analytical abilities, coupled with strong systems thinking and problem-solving expertise. They should possess the capacity to grasp the broader context and make well-reasoned judgments and decisions.
Strong interpersonal skills are essential, with the capacity to engage effectively with individuals across all organizational levels, both internally and externally. You will employ a strategic mindset when cultivating and nurturing each relationship to ensure mutual benefit and long-term success.
Demonstrates strong leadership in guiding diverse, multidisciplinary teams, coupled with exceptional coaching capabilities to foster team development and performance.
Proven ability to craft clear, compelling messaging tailored to diverse audiences, coupled with exceptional verbal and written communication skills, enabling the delivery of highly persuasive presentations.
Proactive, resourceful, solutions-focused, and driven by measurable outcomes, we seek a candidate who thrives in dynamic environments and delivers tangible results through innovative problem-solving and strategic execution.
Fluency in English is a mandatory requirement for this position.
Must possess the flexibility to travel to field locations as needed, with a requirement to accommodate up to 30% travel, including visits to remote BASAL counties.
Agency Competencies (for all CRS Staff):
Demonstrates a commitment to the agency’s mission, values, and ethical standards while fostering an inclusive and collaborative work environment. Exhibits proficiency in delivering high-quality services with a focus on accountability, integrity, and transparency. Maintains adaptability in dynamic settings, prioritizing continuous learning and professional development to meet evolving organizational and stakeholder needs. Ensures compliance with policies, procedures, and regulatory requirements while promoting a culture of mutual respect, diversity, and equity. Supports team objectives through effective communication, problem-solving, and strategic decision-making to achieve sustainable impact.
Demonstrates a steadfast commitment to personal accountability by owning one’s decisions and actions with unwavering consistency.
Demonstrates unwavering integrity by consistently upholding the values set forth in the CRS Guiding Principles and mission. Maintains a reputation for honesty in all professional interactions and decisions.
Demonstrates unwavering reliability by ensuring alignment between commitments and actual performance, thereby fostering confidence and credibility in all professional interactions.
Actively engages and collaborates with colleagues across diverse cultural backgrounds and teams to achieve shared objectives efficiently.
Open to learn – Actively pursues experiences that challenge current perspectives or introduce new knowledge and insights.
The ideal candidate must demonstrate proficiency in key leadership competencies essential for agency success, including strategic vision, effective decision-making, and the ability to inspire and motivate teams. They should possess strong communication skills to foster collaboration across departments and stakeholders, along with a keen understanding of operational and financial management. Additionally, the role requires demonstrated experience in change management, conflict resolution, and fostering a culture of innovation and accountability. Proficiency in data-driven decision-making and a commitment to continuous professional development are also essential.
Continuously seeks opportunities to enhance the agency by fostering a culture characterized by adaptability, transparency, and creativity.
Cultivates and Empowers Others – Strengthens employees’ capabilities to maximize their potential and drive improvements in team and organizational effectiveness.
Possesses the ability to grasp the significance of one’s position in executing, conveying, and aligning agency strategy with team objectives.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 - 8 years
