Job Summary
As 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 communities in arid and semi-arid lands (Nasals). Your role will require strong leadership, operational management, and technical expertise—particularly in commodity management and large-scale programs funded by the U.S. government—to ensure the implementation of high-quality initiatives and strengthen CRS’s reputation as a premier agency in emergency food assistance. In this senior leadership position, you will also take a proactive approach to security management, identifying and mitigating potential risks to safeguard program operations and personnel.
Crafts and executes strategic initiatives alongside pivotal duties to drive organizational success, encompassing a comprehensive range of objectives. Accountable for overseeing key projects, ensuring alignment with overarching goals while fostering collaboration across teams. Responsibilities include analyzing performance metrics, identifying process improvements, and implementing innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and productivity. Requires strong leadership to guide cross-functional teams, delegate tasks effectively, and monitor progress toward established targets.
Oversee the full spectrum of the Food for Peace program’s development, execution, and integration in Kenya, guaranteeing strict adherence to emergency food security goals and USDA regulatory 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.
Collaborate effectively with public, private, and non-governmental stakeholders to enhance collective impact and prevent redundant efforts.
Ensure the project is strategically designed and executed to align with donor expectations regarding timely, high-quality deliverables and budget adherence, incorporating robust phase-out and sustainability strategies, as well as precise beneficiary targeting, food distribution, and nutrition outcomes. Provide oversight for the effective implementation of tailored interventions—such as general food distribution, targeted nutrition support, and recovery initiatives—in direct response to emergency requirements.
Deliver strategic and technical direction for the oversight of all commodity management systems, encompassing procurement planning, call forwards, port clearance operations in Mombasa, inland transport, storage, and distribution.
Coordinate closely with program and operations leads to ensure alignment and effective collaboration. Uphold CRS program quality standards in strict adherence to MEAL policies and procedures.
You will be responsible for leading and developing senior programming and operations talent, ensuring optimal team dynamics and employee well-being. Your role includes providing coaching, mentoring, and creating customized individual development plans, as well as conducting performance evaluations for direct reports. Additionally, you will oversee the creation of staffing plans and the recruitment process for senior-level positions.
Oversee risk by continuously assessing national and regional developments that could affect personnel and programs, addressing potential threats proactively. Guarantee all staff are fully informed and compliant with CRS safety and security policies and protocols, while also overseeing the regular review and revision of these measures.
Demonstrate a strong dedication to the responsible management and optimal utilization of agency and donor resources, setting a positive example for others. Maintain strict adherence to USDA/FAS grant requirements, including compliance with 2 CFR 200, by overseeing financial tracking, partner budget management, and administrative functions, as well as ensuring accurate reporting to USDA. Authorize program expenditures, budget revisions, and donor-requested cost adjustments as needed.
Develop and implement communication strategies and materials in accordance with USDA branding and marking guidelines, ensuring all content reflects proper acknowledgment of U.S. Government support in program materials and beneficiary communications.
Coordinate relationships with consortium partner organizations by organizing review and planning workshops. Support the coordination of roles and responsibilities among staff from other consortium member organizations, ensuring alignment with CRS partnership principles throughout the implementation process.
Create and uphold optimal learning environments by fostering a secure space where ideas, solutions, and challenges can be openly shared, alongside the ability to promptly identify, assess, and address deficiencies. Assess performance gaps and training needs among CRS and partner staff, then develop and implement high-quality training programs and provide expert technical assistance to support their growth and effectiveness.
Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field is required. A minimum of 5 years of experience in software development, with proficiency in at least one programming language such as Java, Python, or C++. Experience with agile methodologies, version control systems (e.g., Git), and continuous integration/continuous deployment (CI/CD) pipelines is essential. Solid understanding of algorithms, data structures, and object-oriented design principles is necessary. Familiarity with cloud platforms (AWS, Azure, or GCP) and containerization technologies (Docker, Kubernetes) is a plus. Excellent problem-solving skills, strong teamwork abilities, and effective communication are mandatory. Proven track record of delivering high-quality software solutions within tight deadlines is required.
Seeking a highly qualified individual with a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, along with at least three years of professional experience. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a strong proficiency in essential technical skills and possess the ability to meet project deadlines consistently. Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, are required to effectively collaborate with team members and stakeholders. Additionally, the candidate must meet all specified eligibility criteria and adhere to the outlined professional standards.
A Bachelor’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a related technical field is required, with a Master’s degree being preferred.
Seeking candidates with a minimum of five to eight years of progressive management and technical expertise, encompassing senior leadership positions on programs funded by the USDA or USG.
Proven track record in overseeing extensive commodity-focused initiatives, such as Food for Peace or the USDA McGovern-Dole program, is required.
Demonstrates extensive experience with commodity management systems, logistics, and supply chain operations.
Proven expertise in administering intricate budgets, ensuring donor compliance, and overseeing financial operations with precision and accountability.
With at least two years of demonstrated leadership in team supervision, you bring a nurturing approach that fosters professional growth and continuous learning. Your track record includes mentoring senior program staff, guiding their development with insight and expertise.
Experienced professionals with a background in [specific field or industry] and a proven track record of [relevant skills or achievements] will be prioritized. Candidates should possess strong [specific skills, e.g., analytical, communication, or technical abilities], along with [additional qualifications, such as certifications or degrees]. Familiarity with [specific tools, software, or methodologies] is advantageous, as is a minimum of [X years] in [relevant experience]. Exceptional problem-solving capabilities and the ability to collaborate effectively within cross-functional teams are essential. Proficiency in [specific languages, frameworks, or platforms] may also be required, depending on the role’s demands.
Established authority within the industry, evidenced by peer-reviewed publications and presentations at leading conferences.
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.
Experience managing multi-partner consortia and partnership strengthening.
Proficiency in navigating Kenya’s governmental frameworks, including the National Disaster Management Authority (CDMA) and county-level administrative systems, is essential.
Demonstrated excellence in leadership within the realms of food security or humanitarian response initiatives.
Proficiency in fostering relationships and enhancing collaboration with partners is essential. Familiarity with CRS’s partnership strategy is advantageous.
Skilled in overseeing large-scale, high-value initiatives with intricate logistics, with a proven track record in effective program management.
Professionals must possess a proven track record in commodity management and the logistics of food aid distribution.
Demonstrated expertise in navigating USG compliance frameworks and adhering to donor regulations with precision and thoroughness.
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 systems for information and budget management.
Seeking candidates with a comprehensive understanding of the position’s requirements, including essential knowledge and key competencies. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in relevant areas and possess the necessary abilities to fulfill job obligations. The ideal candidate will exhibit a strong grasp of industry standards and exhibit practical skills aligned with organizational needs.
Demonstrates exceptional strategic acumen, analytical prowess, systems thinking, and problem-solving abilities, enabling a comprehensive understanding of complex challenges and the capacity to exercise sound judgment and informed decision-making.
Exceptional skills in managing relationships with a keen ability to connect with individuals across all organizational levels—both internally and externally. Demonstrates a strategic mindset in cultivating and nurturing each connection.
Skilled in guiding and motivating cross-functional or interdisciplinary teams, with a demonstrated ability to lead effectively. Strong coaching capabilities to develop and support team members.
Exceptional verbal and written communication abilities, with a talent for crafting compelling, audience-specific narratives that resonate and persuade effectively.
A proactive, resourceful, solutions-focused professional who consistently delivers measurable results.
Required Languages: Proficiency in English is mandatory.
Must possess the flexibility and capacity to travel to field locations, including remote BASAL counties, with up to 30% travel required.
CRS Staff are required to demonstrate proficiency in a range of essential competencies that align with the agency’s mission and operational standards. These competencies encompass professional excellence, collaborative teamwork, cultural sensitivity, adaptability to dynamic environments, and a strong commitment to ethical conduct and accountability. Every team member is expected to uphold these core values in their daily responsibilities, ensuring alignment with CRS’s strategic objectives and fostering an inclusive, high-performing organizational culture.
Demonstrates unwavering personal accountability by accepting full responsibility for decisions and outcomes, ensuring transparency and integrity in every action taken.
Demonstrates unwavering integrity by consistently embodying the values outlined in CRS Guiding Principles and the organization’s mission, while maintaining a reputation for honesty.
Demonstrates unwavering reliability by aligning commitments with concrete actions, fostering credibility and confidence among colleagues and stakeholders.
Works collaboratively with colleagues across diverse backgrounds and cultures, fostering an inclusive and productive team environment.
Open to learn enthusiastically pursues opportunities for personal and professional growth, actively seeking experiences that broaden perspectives and foster the acquisition of new knowledge.
Agency leadership competencies encompass essential skills and attributes required for effective management and strategic direction within a professional setting. These competencies include demonstrated expertise in team leadership, strategic planning, and decision-making processes. Additionally, they entail strong communication abilities to inspire and guide teams, as well as the capacity to foster innovation and drive organizational growth. Proficiency in change management, conflict resolution, and stakeholder engagement is also critical, along with a commitment to ethical practices and continuous professional development.
Drives transformative initiatives by fostering an environment characterized by adaptability, transparency, and forward-thinking solutions to propel the agency forward.
Develops and acknowledges the contributions of others, fostering an environment that empowers staff to maximize their potential and drive improvements in both team and agency performance.
Understands how their position contributes to executing and aligning with the agency’s strategic direction and team objectives, ensuring clear communication and implementation of priorities.
Qualifications
BA/BSc/HND
Experience Required
5 - 8 years
