Chief of Party Full-time Job

Project Summary:

The anticipated USAID-funded project, “EdEquity” seeks to advance equitable access to and improved learning outcomes in primary education. By addressing critical barriers faced by vulnerable and marginalized children, the project aims to ensure that all children have the opportunity to succeed academically and thrive. The project will also strengthen education governance structures and mechanisms to promote evidence-based decision-making and effective resource allocation.

Position Summary:

The Chief of Party (COP) will provide strategic and technical leadership to achieve the project's objectives. S/he will manage project staff, oversee activities, and ensure alignment with USAID's goals and regulations. The COP will be the primary point of contact with USAID, government counterparts, and other stakeholders. The COP will ensure high-quality project implementation and results in the areas of early grade reading and mathematics, socio-emotional learning, inclusive education, and school-based management.

Reporting & Supervision:

The Chief of Party will report to the Project Director.

Primary Responsibilities:

Provide overall leadership and direction for the project.

Serve as the primary liaison with USAID, the Ministry of Education, and other key stakeholders.

Oversee project planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

Ensure alignment of project activities with USAID's goals and regulations.

Provide technical guidance on education quality, equitable access, and inclusive education strategies.

Manage project staff and foster a collaborative team environment.

Monitor project budget and ensure financial accountability.

Prepare and submit timely and accurate project reports.

Ensure compliance with USAID and Creative Associates International policies and procedures.

Represent the project at conferences, workshops, and other events.

Coordinate with other development partners to maximize impact and synergy.

Contribute to the development of project knowledge and learning products.

Required Skills & Qualifications:

Master's degree in education, international development, or a related field.

Minimum of 10 years of experience managing complex education projects, preferably in Central Asia or similar context.

Demonstrated experience working on gender equity and/or inclusion programs for education and literacy outcomes.

Strong understanding of USAID's policies, regulations, and reporting requirements.

Proven ability to build and maintain relationships with USAID, government counterparts, and other stakeholders.

Excellent leadership, management, and communication skills.

Fluency in English is required; proficiency in Russian or Kyrgyz is preferred.

Demonstrated ability to work effectively in a team environment.

Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

Excellent written and oral communication skills.

Desired Skills & Qualifications:

Familiarity with education systems in Central Asia.

Experience working with marginalized and vulnerable populations.

Knowledge of innovative approaches to education quality improvement.

Experience in socio-emotional learning or inclusive education.

Experience in gender equity or gender transformative programming in education.

Local Nationals are encouraged to apply.

Only finalists will be contacted. No phone calls, please.

Creative Associates International Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer: qualified applicants are considered for employment without regard to age, race, sex, religion, national origin, disability, sexual orientation, or veteran status.

Creative Associates International is a dynamic and fast-growing professional services firm that specializes in international development. Since 1977, it has provided high-quality, cost-effective technical assistance to governmental and private sector clients worldwide. With headquarters in Chevy Chase, Maryland, Creative has field presence in more than 25 countries and a strong client portfolio that includes the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) and the U.S. Department of State, among others. Since its inception, Creative has forged a solid reputation among its clients and is well-regarded as a thought leader and implementer in its sectors.