Chief of Party – USAID Higher Education Capacity Development (Lebanon)

About the role

IREX is seeking a Chief of Party to lead a five‑year, $12 million USAID‑funded Higher Education Capacity Development activity in Lebanon. Based in Beirut, the incumbent will provide strategic direction, oversee implementation, and ensure the program meets its objectives on time and within budget.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and technical leadership, designing activities that strengthen core functions of Lebanese higher education institutions and foster collaboration with industry and government.
• Serve as the primary liaison with USAID and cultivate relationships with government officials, universities, donors, implementers, and beneficiaries.
• Develop and manage partnerships with implementing partners and sub‑awardees, ensuring a shared vision and coordinated action.
• Oversee work planning, budgeting, financial management, compliance, and sub‑grant administration.
• Lead monitoring, evaluation, learning and reporting processes, adapting the program as needed to achieve impact and sustainability.
• Integrate diversity, equity and inclusion throughout implementation and promote evidence‑based positive youth development.
• Ensure adherence to IREX safety and security policies for staff and program activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required profile

• Master’s degree in education, international development, nonprofit management or a related field.
• Extensive experience managing large, multi‑partner development programs, preferably with USAID funding.
• Demonstrated ability to lead diverse teams, manage budgets of at least $10 million, and navigate complex stakeholder environments.
• Strong understanding of higher education systems, strategic planning, and public‑private collaboration.
• Citizenship of Lebanon or permanent residency with work authorization is strongly encouraged.

Required skills