Job Title: CASH Transfers Lead
Location: South Sudan
Organization: International Rescue Committee (IRC)
About IRC:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been active in South Sudan since 1989, providing vital support across seven states and two administrative areas. Our programs address various sectors, including health, education, and economic development, focusing on the most vulnerable populations.
Program Overview: Education for All South Sudan (EFASS):
South Sudan faces a critical education crisis, with approximately 2.8 to 3 million children—60 to 70% of the school-age population—out of school. Foundational literacy and numeracy skills are alarmingly low, with fewer than 10% of children achieving minimum reading competency. The ongoing conflict, climate challenges, and inadequate government funding (less than 3% of the national budget) have exacerbated this situation, particularly affecting girls and children with disabilities.
EFASS is a £27 million, four-year initiative (April 2026 to March 2030) aimed at improving educational access and outcomes for marginalized children, especially girls and those with disabilities in conflict-affected areas. The program focuses on enhancing foundational learning, promoting inclusive education, and strengthening data collection for informed decision-making.
Position Overview:
The CASH Transfers Lead will be the technical authority for all Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA) activities under EFASS. This senior role requires extensive experience in managing large-scale cash transfer programs in fragile environments, emphasizing value for money, risk management, and adaptive program management.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the strategic design and implementation of nationwide cash transfer initiatives targeting marginalized groups.
- Develop a secure, efficient end-to-end cash delivery process across all states.
- Establish robust beneficiary identification mechanisms using Washington Group Questions.
- Integrate cash transfer strategies with behavior change communication (BCC) activities.
- Pilot innovative delivery methods such as mobile money and biometric technologies.
- Collaborate with government entities, cash working groups, and stakeholders to share insights and lessons learned.
- Manage relationships with financial service providers to ensure cost-effective cash transfer execution.
- Adapt delivery mechanisms in response to challenges like school closures and climate shocks.
- Develop comprehensive risk mitigation strategies addressing fraud and safeguarding.
- Train staff and partners on financial management and safeguarding protocols.
- Engage with major donors to explore synergies with social safety net initiatives.
- Prepare technical reports on cash transfer activities for stakeholders.
- Oversee post-distribution monitoring to assess cash utilization and beneficiary satisfaction.
Qualifications:
- Master’s degree in International Development, Economics, or related field.
- 8-10 years of program management experience, with at least 5 years in fragile contexts.
- Proven experience in managing large-scale cash transfer programs.
- Knowledge of mobile money platforms and digital payment technologies.
- Understanding of the education sector and its linkages to cash transfer outcomes.
- Familiarity with risks associated with cash delivery, including fraud and market volatility.
- Strong analytical skills and experience in budget management.
- Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal.
- Ability to build relationships with government ministries, donors, and local partners.
Application Process:
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through our website.
Safety and Security:
All staff must adhere to IRC South Sudan’s security policies and procedures.
Standards for Professional Conduct:
IRC employees must uphold the values of integrity, equality, service, and accountability, adhering to policies on beneficiary protection, child safeguarding, and anti-harassment.
Note: This position is contingent upon the outcome of the bid.
