Are you a strategic leader with a passion for programme coordination in peace and governance? Join the African Union’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) in Addis Ababa and help shape the future of continental collaboration and impact. Read on to discover how you can contribute to transformative change across Africa.

 

Introduction

NORCAP’s mission is to improve aid to protect and empower people affected by crises and climate change. With expertise in the humanitarian, development and peacebuilding sectors, we collaborate with local, national and international partners on finding solutions that meet the needs of people at risk.

We do this by:

• Supporting humanitarian, development and peacebuilding initiatives that protect and empower people
• Improving impact at the global and local level through joint projects with partners and stakeholders
• Providing expertise and developing capacity that enable partners to meet the needs of people in fragile situations and crises
• Strengthening the global system that we are part of through support for leadership, coordination and policy development
• Building bridges between the humanitarian, development and peacebuilding sectors

In alignment with NORCAP’s mission, the African Union’s Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) plays a pivotal role in promoting peace, security, and governance across the continent. The department is undergoing a transformation to enhance programme coordination and delivery, particularly through the establishment of a Programme Coordination Unit (PCU) that supports both the Conflict Management Directorate (CMD) and the Directorate of Governance and Conflict Prevention (GCP).

To support this strategic shift, NORCAP is seeking a seasoned professional to serve as Head of Programme Coordination within PAPS.

 

Role and Responsibilities

As the Head of Programme Coordination, you will take on the following responsibilities:

• Lead the transformation of the Programme Management Team into a fully functional Programme Coordination Unit supporting PAPS.
• Oversee annual programming and budgeting processes, ensuring alignment with departmental priorities and AU frameworks.
• Coordinate with AU strategic planning and resource mobilisation teams to develop and implement cooperation agreements.
• Provide oversight for initiatives under the AU Peace Fund, including the Crisis Reserve Facility.
• Guide risk management activities and advise leadership on strategic threats to performance.
• Facilitate joint programming with regional and sub-regional organisations aligned with APSA and AGA.
• Mentor and supervise PCU staff, ensuring high-quality delivery and institutional strengthening.
• Act as focal point for change management and development partner engagement on programming issues.

 

Kindly note that this role is with the African Union and is therefore restricted to valid passport-holding nationals of AU member states.

 

Qualifications and Experience

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Master’s degree in economics, statistics, project management, public policy, development studies or a related field.
• Minimum of 12 years’ progressively responsible experience in strategic planning, monitoring and evaluation, and partnership development, with at least 7 years at managerial level.
• Proven experience in governance, peace and security programming.
• Strong leadership and change management capabilities.
• Excellent communication and coordination skills across diverse stakeholders.
• Please read the attached terms of reference for more details before applying.

 

Values

NORCAP is part of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC), an organisation guided by the values of being dedicated, innovative, inclusive, and accountable. These values shape our actions and relationships. NRC fosters a safe and empowering work culture where everyone feels valued and supported. We uphold a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation and abuse and expect all staff to contribute to a respectful and ethical workplace.

 

Competencies

The main competencies of a NORCAP Expert are:

• Building working relationships
• Planning and organising
• Adaptability
• Resilience

 

What We Offer

In recognition of your expertise and contributions, we provide the following benefits and opportunities:

• Rewarding work for a renowned global organisation
• Access to a network of humanitarian, peace, and development professionals
• A dedicated Staff Care Unit

 

How to Apply

Based on what you have read so far, do you think you could be a good fit? If so, please follow these steps and apply!

• When submitting your application, kindly register in English your full employment history and education. Please include your full name as written in your passport. Uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed.
• NORCAP values diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, religion or disability.
• NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates.
• Approved Health Certificate will be required prior to contract commencement and assignment.
• Feedback will be given to all applicants within four weeks after the closing of this advertisement.
• Apply before the 16^th of November 2025, at 23:30 (Oslo time).

We look forward to receiving your application!

 

At NORCAP, we work to better protect and empower people affected by crises and climate change. With expertise in the humanitarian, development and peacebuilding sectors, we collaborate with local, national and international partners on finding solutions to meet the needs of people at risk. NORCAP is part of the Norwegian Refugee Council.