Chief of Party Food for Education, Liberia

***This position is contingent on donor funding and approval

About Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a leading global organization powered by the belief that a better world is possible.

In disaster, in hardship, in more than 40 countries around the world, we partner to put bold solutions into action — helping people triumph over adversity and build stronger communities from within. Now, and for the future.

USDA McGovern-Dole Food for Education Program / Mercy Corps Liberia

Mercy Corps started operations in Liberia in 2002 in response to the humanitarian crisis brought on by the two Liberian civil wars which took place from 1989-1997and 1999-2003. Since then, Mercy Corps' interventions have evolved based on the context and needs of Liberian people. Based on the changing needs, Mercy Corps Liberia has implemented programs in renewable energy, food security, agricultural livelihoods, financial inclusion, nutrition, water and sanitation, infrastructure, and in youth economic empowerment.

Mercy Corps is seeking an experienced and dynamic Chief of Party (CoP) to lead a $10-35 million USDA-funded McGovern-Dole Food for Education (FFE) program in Liberia. McGovern-Dole uses U.S.-donated and programming focuses on two main results: 1) Improved literacy of school-age children and 2) Increased use of health, nutrition, and dietary practices.

The Position

The CoP will have overall responsibility for successful delivery of the five-year USDA McGovern-Dole FFE program. They will provide overall leadership, management, and strategic vision for the implementation of the anticipated program, ensuring that the program meets its targets and deliverables on time and within budget. The CoP will supervise all program staff and ensure accountability to Mercy Corps' policies as well as all donor rules and regulations. The CoP will be the primary representative for the program with USDA and other donors, government entities, and all other partners and stakeholders. The FFE program in Liberia is expected to be five years, with a start date around October 1, 2026.

Essential Responsibilities

STRATEGY AND PLANNING

• Lead the development of an overall vision and strategy for the FE program by prioritizing and organizing actions & resources to achieve program objectives and impact, shared with the program team, partners, and key stakeholders.
• Play an active role in identifying and developing new initiatives that foster and/or improve strategic objectives of the program.
• Foster a culture of collaborating, learning, and adapting for effective implementation throughout the project lifecycle.

MANAGEMENT AND IMPLEMENTATION

• Provide overall management of program activities, ensuring alignment with donor requirements and organizational standards.
• Oversee budget execution and financial reporting to ensure compliance with donor regulations.
• Coordinate with government agencies and local partners to ensure program integration and sustainability.
• Monitor and evaluate program performance, preparing regular progress reports for donors and management.

PARTNERSHIP AND STAKEHOLDER ENGAGEMENT

• Maintain strong relationships with government counterparts, local partners, and community stakeholders.
• Represent the program in meetings with donors, government officials, and other relevant parties.
• Facilitate coordination among program components and external partners to ensure cohesive implementation.

HR MANAGEMENT AND TEAM LEADERSHIP

• Provide leadership, mentoring, and performance management for program staff.
• Ensure staff capacity building and professional development opportunities.
• Maintain a motivated and high-performing team aligned with organizational values.

Qualifications

Education: Advanced degree in Education, Public Health, Nutrition, Agricultural Development, International Development, or related field.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in international development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role managing complex programs.

Technical Expertise: Demonstrated experience in school feeding programs, education, nutrition, or related areas. Knowledge of USDA regulations and international food aid programs preferred.

Skills: Strong leadership and management capabilities. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English. Proven ability to manage multi-sectoral programs and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Requirements: Must be eligible to work in Liberia. Willingness to travel within Liberia as required. Strong understanding of Liberia's political, economic, and social landscape.

How to Apply

Applications should include a cover letter and CV. Applications must be submitted electronically to [email address] by .

This position is contingent on donor funding and approval.