Chief of Party, MYAP Program

Save the Children is the world’s leading independent organization for children. Our mission is to inspire breakthroughs in the way the world treats children, and to achieve immediate and lasting change in their lives. Recognized for our commitment to accountability, innovation and collaboration, our work takes us into the hearts of communities where we can make a difference for children in need. We are currently seeking a senior-level Chief of Party (COP) who will provide overall management leadership, technical guidance, and comprehensive support for the MYAP food security programs in Ethiopia under the Productive Safety Net Program (PSNP), including managing the response to food and nutrition related non-emergencies within the scope of those programs. Of particular importance is the integration of long-term, sustainable interventions with the aim of reversing chronic food insecurity and preventing asset depletion for food insecure households.

The Chief of Party is accountable for both the quality of programs in the portfolio and for the effective financial and operational management thereof. S/he will serve as the management leader and coordinator of a large, geographically dispersed team of agricultural, MCH, HIV/AIDS and commodity staff. The COP will also serve as the primary representative at national level for liaison with government, donors and partner agencies involved in the program and have solid experience working on Title II programs and knowledge of Food For Peace requirements. S/he will also liaise closely with the field-based program managers who provide the direct liaison at regional, zonal and district level with government partner agencies, local institutions and communities. S/he will be expected to play a pivotal role in the integration of the MYAP food security/nutrition programs and other complementary programs designed to address the causes and consequences of chronic food insecurity, and in the development of future funding proposals.

Candidates for this key role must have at least ten years progressively advanced management experience in field based food security programming with 2+ years of senior-level experience working on food security projects that addressed gender-related constraints or differences in availability, access, and utilization/consumption of food resources. Experience in managing large field programs with multiple local and international partners, with expertise in scaling up programs in complex environments; demonstrated skills in strategic planning, budget development and management, multi-sector work plan development, and program reporting for diverse audiences; and familiarity with USAID rules, regulations and policies is critical for success. Demonstrated skills in leadership and supervision, with an ability to develop a common vision among partners as well as the proven ability in promoting and collaborating closely with multi-level stakeholders, development and maintenance of positive and productive relationships with clients, consultants and donors and head quarter offices is important. Coordination skills with the ability to bring together multiple program requirements and stakeholders; strong presentation and facilitation skills; and solid analytical skills and excellent oral and written communication skills in English are key. Excellent interpersonal skills and a demonstrated ability to lead and work effectively in team situations; previous experience in managing large scale Title II programs; experience working in changing work environments; and experience with programming in pastoral areas will all be critical skills for success in this senior-level role.

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