Essential Job Details

• Position Title: County Coordinator
• Location: Marsabit, Kenya
• Employment Type: Full-Time, On-site
• Number of Vacancies: 1 (Requisition Number: COUNT006111)
• Salary: Not disclosed
• Category/Department: Programming
• Reporting To: RANGE Program Director
• Application Deadline: Rolling basis

Introduction

The County Coordinator role in Marsabit offers an exceptional career opportunity for a seasoned professional dedicated to leading transformative development initiatives in Kenya’s Arid and Semi-Arid Lands (ASAL). This pivotal position within the Resilient Approaches in Natural Rangeland Ecosystems (RANGE) program focuses on driving sustainable economic and social development through natural resource management, livestock market engagement, and governance. Ideal for individuals with strong leadership and coordination skills, this role involves overseeing program implementation, fostering partnerships, and ensuring impactful outcomes in Marsabit. By taking on this position, you will empower communities to build resilience against climate challenges, making it a rewarding opportunity for Kenyan professionals committed to creating lasting change.

About Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps is a globally recognized organization committed to creating a better world by addressing adversity and fostering resilient communities. Operating in over 40 countries, it collaborates with local stakeholders to deliver innovative, sustainable solutions. In Kenya, since 2008, Mercy Corps has implemented a diverse portfolio of programs tackling poverty, climate change, conflict, and resource scarcity. Their initiatives strengthen market and governance systems, promote peace, and enhance resilience, particularly for youth, women, and marginalized groups. The RANGE program, active in northern Kenya’s ASAL regions, exemplifies their commitment to sustainable development through integrated approaches to natural resource management, livestock markets, and community empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

The County Coordinator will lead the RANGE program’s implementation in Marsabit, ensuring alignment with program goals and effective collaboration with stakeholders. Key responsibilities include:

• Provide managerial and technical leadership for RANGE activities at the county level, working with partners and stakeholders.
• Develop county-specific work plans and budgets, ensuring timely implementation within approved budgets.
• Lead coordination and integration among technical, support, and project units, including consortium partners and other stakeholders.
• Manage market systems development strategies, including partnership agreements and sector transformation interventions.
• Facilitate program visibility plans and delivery activities for implementing partners in Marsabit.
• Attend quarterly project meetings and facilitate planning workshops with government, NGOs, private sector, and community partners.
• Provide timely updates to the RANGE Program Director on progress, risks, and proposed solutions.
• Develop and update a program risk matrix on an ad hoc and quarterly basis.
• Coordinate with procurement, logistics, security, administration, and HR teams to support field activities.
• Ensure integration of cross-cutting issues, such as gender and safeguarding, into program activities.
• Act as the primary liaison with county and national government officials, fostering synergies and collaboration.
• Conduct periodic presentations to county government departments and partners on project progress and lessons learned.
• Organize joint field visits with relevant government departments to enhance program impact.
• Oversee team roles and responsibilities, providing technical support, capacity building, and quality assurance.
• Promote accountability by communicating expectations and providing constructive feedback to team members.
• Hire and orient new team members to ensure cohesive program delivery.
• Represent the organization at county-level events, coordinating with RANGE and Mercy Corps leadership.
• Oversee routine program support functions (finance, administration, logistics) to ensure compliance with policies.
• Work with the security focal point to maintain systems promoting team safety and security.
• Collaborate with the MEL team to embed effective monitoring and evaluation systems, ensuring data-driven program adaptation.
• Promote safeguarding principles, ensuring respect and dignity for all participants and team members.
• Encourage open communication and use of reporting mechanisms like the Integrity Hotline.

Qualifications and Skills

To succeed as a County Coordinator in Marsabit, candidates must possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Bachelor’s degree in natural resources, rangelands management, livestock production, agricultural economics, veterinary medicine, or a related field; Master’s degree preferred.
• Minimum 5 years of professional experience in multi-sectoral programs, including team management and strategic planning.
• Demonstrated experience leading interventions in livestock, natural resource management, or governance using market systems development approaches.
• Strong managerial skills in personnel management, adaptive management, and decision-making.
• Experience managing large, complex programs in challenging environments.
• Sound understanding of financial, procurement, administration, and logistics systems, including remote management.
• Proven ability to coordinate multiple activities and foster collaboration among stakeholders.
• Experience working with county governments, INGOs, and national NGOs in ASAL regions.
• Excellent organizational skills, with attention to detail and the ability to anticipate program needs.
• Strong team-building skills, with a commitment to local capacity building and stakeholder engagement.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and project management tools.
• Fluent in English and Swahili; competency in a relevant local language is an advantage.
• Experience in ASAL regions, with an understanding of local dynamics and challenges.
• Preferred: Knowledge of adaptive management and participatory methodologies for project design and evaluation.

Company Culture and Values

The organization fosters a collaborative, inclusive, and respectful work environment, emphasizing accountability, innovation, and learning. Team members are empowered to take initiative, work in cross-functional teams, and contribute to sustainable solutions. The culture prioritizes dignity, equity, and transparency, with a strong commitment to safeguarding principles. Continuous learning is encouraged, with 5% of work time dedicated to personal and professional growth. The organization values diversity, fostering trust and respect to ensure every team member can thrive and contribute to impactful outcomes.

How to Apply

Apply now for the County Coordinator position in Marsabit. To submit your application:

• Prepare your CV and a cover letter clearly stating the job title and requisition number (COUNT006111) in the subject line.
• Submit your application via the online portal: Apply for County Coordinator – Marsabit.
• Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Note: The employer is an equal opportunity organization and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Report any misconduct to the Integrity Hotline at integrityhotline@mercycorps.org.

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Tags

County Coordinator, Marsabit jobs, natural resource management, livestock market systems, ASAL Kenya careers

Role Overview

The County Coordinator role in Marsabit is a leadership position within the RANGE program, designed to drive sustainable development in one of Kenya’s most challenging regions. By overseeing program implementation, managing teams, and fostering partnerships, the County Coordinator will play a critical role in achieving program objectives. This position is ideal for professionals with a passion for leading complex, multi-sectoral programs and a commitment to community-driven solutions.

Why This Role Matters

As a County Coordinator, you will be at the forefront of transformative change, addressing systemic challenges like climate change, resource scarcity, and economic instability in Marsabit. By leading efforts to strengthen livestock market systems, natural resource management, and governance, you will empower communities to build resilience and achieve sustainable growth. This role offers a unique opportunity to make a lasting impact in ASAL regions while advancing your career in development leadership.

Program Context: RANGE in Marsabit

The Resilient Approaches in Natural Rangeland Ecosystems (RANGE) program is a flagship initiative in northern Kenya, targeting ASAL regions like Marsabit. The program integrates natural resource management, livestock market engagement, governance, advocacy, and adaptive learning to promote sustainable economic and social development. By addressing the root causes of vulnerability, RANGE ensures communities can thrive in a well-managed landscape.

Day-to-Day Responsibilities

The County Coordinator will engage in a dynamic mix of strategic planning, stakeholder coordination, and program oversight. Daily tasks include:

• Leading the development and execution of county-specific work plans and budgets.
• Coordinating with consortium partners to ensure seamless program implementation.
• Engaging with county government officials to foster collaboration and support.
• Monitoring program progress, ensuring data accuracy and timely reporting.
• Managing team dynamics, providing mentorship and capacity building.
• Overseeing operational functions like procurement, logistics, and security.

Leadership and Team Management

As a County Coordinator, you will lead a team of Program Officers and Assistants, fostering a cohesive and high-performing unit. This involves:

• Structuring team roles to ensure efficient delivery of program interventions.
• Providing continuous technical support and capacity building to team members.
• Promoting a culture of accountability, collaboration, and excellence.
• Conducting regular performance reviews and one-on-one feedback sessions.

Skills Development Opportunities

The County Coordinator role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, including:

• Enhancing leadership and managerial skills in complex, multi-sectoral programs.
• Developing expertise in market systems development and adaptive management.
• Building advanced skills in stakeholder engagement and government liaison.
• Gaining proficiency in project management and data-driven decision-making.
• Strengthening your ability to navigate challenging environments in ASAL regions.

Working in Marsabit

Marsabit is a unique and challenging region characterized by its arid landscapes and resilient communities. The County Coordinator will be based in Marsabit, with up to 40% travel to program sites, some of which may be insecure or have limited amenities. The role includes access to individual housing and quality medical services, ensuring a comfortable living situation. The opportunity to work closely with local communities and drive impactful change makes this role highly rewarding.

Career Growth Potential

The County Coordinator position is a gateway to senior leadership roles in development and humanitarian work. By leading a high-impact program with a globally recognized organization, you will gain exposure to innovative approaches and strategic decision-making. The role also offers opportunities to mentor teams, influence program design, and build a robust professional network, positioning you for future leadership opportunities.

Commitment to Safeguarding

The organization prioritizes safeguarding, ensuring all team members and program participants are treated with respect and dignity. As a County Coordinator, you will integrate safeguarding principles into your work, promoting a safe and inclusive environment. This includes encouraging open communication, reporting concerns via the Integrity Hotline, and adhering to the organization’s Code of Conduct.

Who Should Apply

This County Coordinator role is ideal for experienced professionals with a background in multi-sectoral programs and team leadership. If you have expertise in natural resource management, livestock markets, or governance, and a passion for driving sustainable development in ASAL regions, this position offers a unique opportunity to lead impactful initiatives.

How to Stand Out as an Applicant

To increase your chances of being shortlisted for the County Coordinator role:

• Highlight your experience leading complex programs in ASAL regions.
• Demonstrate your ability to manage teams and coordinate with diverse stakeholders.
• Showcase your expertise in market systems development or adaptive management.
• Emphasize your commitment to safeguarding and ethical practices.

Application Tips

When applying for the County Coordinator position:

• Tailor your CV to highlight leadership experience in development programs.
• Write a concise cover letter addressing your alignment with RANGE objectives.
• Submit your application early, as reviews are conducted on a rolling basis.
• Ensure all required documents are complete and correctly formatted.

Why Work in Development in Marsabit

Marsabit offers a dynamic environment where your leadership can drive transformative change. As a County Coordinator, you will lead efforts to empower communities, strengthen market systems, and build resilience against climate challenges. This role is an opportunity to leave a lasting legacy in one of Kenya’s most critical regions while advancing your career in a mission-driven organization.

Additional Information

The employer is committed to equal opportunity and does not discriminate based on race, color, sex, sexual orientation, religion, national origin, age, disability, or other characteristics. The recruitment process is free, and candidates should report any misconduct to the Integrity Hotline. For more details, refer to the official application portal.

Conclusion

The County Coordinator role in Marsabit is a transformative leadership opportunity for professionals eager to drive sustainable development in Kenya’s ASAL regions. By leading the RANGE program, you will oversee innovative solutions, foster partnerships, and empower communities to thrive. Apply today to take the next step in your development career and make a lasting impact in Marsabit.