JOB SUMMARY: Join CARE as the Regional Program Operations Director and take a pivotal role in transforming the ECA region’s program operations to ensure timely, effective, and sustainable delivery across our humanitarian and development efforts. As a senior member of the Regional Leadership Team, you will lead strategic initiatives, operational oversight, and support for nine country offices, positioning CARE to deliver on its mission with excellence and adaptability. This position requires a leader with a blend of strategic vision, program delivery expertise, and the ability to navigate complex operational landscapes. You will be instrumental in driving operational enhancements, managing risk, ensuring compliance, and mentoring leaders to achieve high standards of program quality and impact.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Strategic Leadership and Implementation: Spearhead the development and execution of strategies that align regional program operations with CARE’s global vision and the CARE 2030 agenda. Collaborate closely with the Regional Director and the Director of Program Quality and Impact to align country strategies with regional and global priorities. Lead and communicate CARE’s strategic objectives, ensuring country programs are equipped with robust operational frameworks to adapt in both emergency and development contexts. Foster strong partnerships with CARE Member Partners to enhance service delivery and regional cooperation.

Risk Management and Compliance: Identify and mitigate operational risks in program implementation through proactive strategies, ensuring adherence to CARE standards and regional best practices. Partner with internal stakeholders, including CARE Security Unit and CARE Emergency Group, to ensure safety and security protocols are embedded in all program designs. Oversee compliance with legal registrations, donor requirements, and audit recommendations, ensuring country offices operate within statutory and donor guidelines. Program Operations Oversight: Provide strategic oversight for high-value contracts and grants, collaborating with awards management and regional partners. Support country offices in responding effectively to humanitarian emergencies, ensuring that operations meet CARE’s quality standards and timely delivery benchmarks. Monitor and evaluate program performance using organizational tools and performance indicators, adjusting operational strategies as needed for impactful delivery. Mentor and coach first-time Country Directors, fostering leadership growth and strategic operational thinking. Change Management and Organizational Development: Lead change management initiatives, driving regional transformation and organizational development aligned with CARE’s localization and sustainability goals. Promote a culture of learning and continuous improvement, ensuring country teams are equipped to manage evolving operational demands. Facilitate creative solutions and knowledge-sharing activities to strengthen program operations and collaborative approaches across the region.

QUALIFICATIONS Master’s degree or equivalent with 10-15 years of senior leadership experience in relevant fields. Proven background in development and humanitarian contexts, with at least 7-10 years in country management roles within large-scale INGOs. In-depth experience working within the African continent and at senior levels in global organizations. Strong commitment to organizational learning, change management, and people development. Demonstrated success in coaching leaders and leading organizational transformation initiatives. Why Join CARE? At CARE, you will be part of a diverse and dedicated team working to create lasting change. Your leadership will shape the impact and future of humanitarian and development programs across East and Central Africa, influencing millions of lives. We offer a collaborative work environment, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to lead transformative projects on a regional scale. #LI-CM1