DRC: Chief of Party, Value Chain Activity

Apr 9, 2016 | RTI International
View Original

RTI is currently seeking qualified candidates for a Chief of Party position on an anticipated USAID-funded Feed the Future Value Chain Activity in Kivu, DRC. The goal of the activity is to expand economic opportunities for vulnerable populations participating in coffee and other selected value chains. USAID anticipates a six year period of performance (December 2016-November 2022) with a total estimated cost range of $25-49.9M. The COP is responsible for overall project performance, management, and execution ensuring all project deliverables are exceptionally exceeded within budget and compliance while ensuring strong and favorable client relations.  This position will be located in Bukavu, South Kivu, DRC.

Responsibilities:
  • Manages client relations and serves as primary liaison and IDG Representative with the client and stakeholders regarding overall policy, resource mobilization and allocation, joint initiatives and coordination of project management and planning
  • Hold primary responsibility for project performance and budget management. 
  • Leads planning, oversight and coordination of all project activities and personnel, operational and technical.
  • Ensures all project deliverables exceed expectations and managed within budget. 
  • Ensure internal integration of project activities through: 1) the annual work plan and budgeting process; 2) creating/maintaining an effective project management team; 3) overseeing an effective monitoring and evaluation system
  • Provide leadership and oversight for areas such as Finance, Operations, Reporting, Public Affairs, Fund Management and Human Resources; liaise with Regional Office and business partners per policy and practice.
  • Responsible to ensure all staff receives adequate security and operational support and that Standard Operating Procedures are implemented.
  • Manage all aspects of staffing and creating/maintaining a clear organizational structure with specific roles, responsibilities and reporting lines.
  • Ensure management systems are operational to track expenditures (including labor) and monitor same against the Program work plan and budget, according to both company policy and client standards/regulations
  • Responsible for developing and implementing practices to ensure a high level of staff morale and retention.
Qualifications
  • Master’s Degree in agriculture, agribusiness, business management, natural resource development, international development or related field and 15 years of related work experience.
  • Senior level management experience (preferably COP or equivalent) on USAID projects of similar size and complexity.
  • Demonstrated experience working on end-market value chain development activities, experience in groundnut, soybean and coffee value chains preferred.
  • Experience managing large grants under contracts preferred.
  • Prior experience managing donor-funded programs in Africa, experience in DRC preferred.
  • Written and verbal fluency in French and English.
  • Proven knowledge and experience managing an international project with international and local staff.
  • Knowledgeable and experienced with USAID policies and procedures.
  • Familiarity with international development systems, policies, finances and management in developing countries.
  • Excellent knowledge of MS Word, Outlook, PowerPoint, Excel.
  • Strong interpersonal skills and ability.
  • Culturally sensitive and respectful.
About RTI

RTI International is one of the world's leading research institutes, dedicated to improving the human condition by turning knowledge into practice. Our staff of more than 4000 provides research and technical services to governments and businesses in more than 75 countries in the areas of health and pharmaceuticals, education and training, surveys and statistics, advanced technology, international development, economic and social policy, energy and the environment, and laboratory testing and chemical analysis.