Chief of Party

Partners of the Americas (POA) is seeking a Chief of Party (COP) for an upcoming U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) five-year “Climate Adaptation Activity” in the Dominican Republic. The expected program seeks to build climate change resilience by promoting water security and sustainable livelihoods through reduced pressures on key water sources, enhanced watershed governance, and strengthened adaptation practices of vulnerable communities. Hiring for this position is contingent upon award from USAID. Dominican nationality is strongly preferred.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The COP will be based in the Dominican Republic and will be responsible for the technical leadership and in-country management of the project. Key job functions include:

• Manage all field aspects of technical assistance delivery, including activity design, execution, post-activity follow-up and reporting to the funder.
• Monitor the completion of all activities and deliverables in line with the approved work plan.
• Oversee operations of local office(s).
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key local government institutions, private sector actors, community leaders, implementing partners, USAID, and other relevant technical assistance providers.
• Liaise closely with home office staff to ensure effective program implementation and management.
• Ensure the program’s overall administrative, financial, and technical compliance with USAID and POA rules and regulations.

QUALIFICATIONS:

The COP must have the following qualifications:

• Master’s degree (or higher) in natural resources management, environmental engineering, rural/international development, ecology, agricultural sciences, business, or related field required.
• 8 to 10 years of experience managing donor-funded programs focused on watershed management, localization, and sustainable livelihoods, preferably in the Dominican Republic or Caribbean region (USAID/USG experience preferred).
• Technical expertise in one or more of the following areas: agriculture and food security; climate change adaptation; environmental resource management; governance; watershed management; forestry; sustainable agriculture; and inclusive development.
• Proven results-oriented team player.
• Demonstrated ability to execute new initiatives and experience working on projects following adaptive management principles.
• Experience supervising staff and overseeing successful project implementation. Ability to lead and form constructive partnerships with and among local counterparts.
• Exceptional communication, interpersonal, and management skills.
• Oral and written fluency in Spanish and English.