Chief of Party – Promoting Alternative Technologies and Fuels to Reduce the Use of Charcoal for Cooking in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Activity POSITION DETAILS Winrock International is seeking a Chief of Party (COP) to lead the “Promoting Alternative Technologies and Fuels to Reduce the Use of Charcoal for Cooking” Activity in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). This USAID/CARPE-funded program aims to reduce reliance on charcoal by promoting cleaner and more sustainable cooking alternatives through behavioral change, market development, and the strengthening of supply chains. The COP will provide overall leadership, strategic direction, and management to ensure the program’s successful execution and alignment with USAID’s objectives. This position is contingent upon award.
ESSENTIAL RESPONSIBILITIES: Provide strategic vision, leadership, and technical direction to achieve program goals related to reducing charcoal use and promoting alternative cooking technologies. Oversee the design, implementation, and overall management of the program to ensure the effective execution of technical activities. Develop and oversee implementation plans, deliverables, and program milestones, ensuring alignment with USAID contractual requirements. Guide program strategies in behavioral change, market development, and supply chain strengthening for clean cooking solutions. Lead policy advocacy efforts for energy alternatives and oversee capacity-building initiatives for stakeholders. Serve as the primary liaison with USAID, government entities, local and international partners, NGOs, and private sector stakeholders. Foster partnerships with clean energy technology providers, financial institutions, and local NGOs to enhance program impact. Ensure effective monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) practices are integrated into program activities. Manage program staff and oversee recruitment, performance management, and professional development. Ensure program compliance with USAID regulations and Winrock’s policies and procedures. Develop and oversee program budgets, ensuring sound financial management and accountability. Represent Winrock International and the program at public events, conferences, and meetings as needed.
QUALIFICATIONS AND BACKGROUND: Education: Advanced degree in renewable energy, environmental science, economics, public policy, international development, engineering, or a related field. Experience: 10–15 years of professional experience with a strong track record in managing donor-funded programs, preferably USAID-funded. Required Qualifications: Background in clean energy, renewable energy systems, or sustainable development, with experience in the cooking energy sector. Experience working with small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to develop supply chains for clean cooking technologies. Knowledge of carbon finance mechanisms and climate adaptation strategies that support sustainability and funding opportunities. Proven experience leading multi-stakeholder initiatives involving government agencies, civil society, and private sector partners. Language Proficiency: Advanced writing and speaking skills in English, with proficiency in French required. Knowledge of USAID policies and procedures as related to project management strongly preferred. Strong collaborative leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills, including proven ability to develop and communicate a common vision among diverse partners and lead a multi-disciplinary and multi-cultural team. Winrock offers competitive pay and an excellent benefits package.
Winrock is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunity for all people and value diversity and inclusiveness. Winrock recruits, employs, trains, promotes and compensates regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, age, physical or mental disability, medical condition, family care status, or any other basis protected by law. At Winrock we have a clear mission: Empower the disadvantaged, increase economic opportunity and sustain natural resources through unwavering dedication to accountability, equity, innovation, integrity and transformation. Winrock knows that its success comes from the hard work and steadfast dedication of its diverse workforce. Winrock remains committed to maintaining diversity, inclusion and equity across the entire organization