MSF is an international, independent medical humanitarian organization. We are a non-profit, self-governed worldwide movement of more than 63,000 people.        

We provide emergency medical assistance during armed conflict, natural disasters, outbreaks of deadly diseases and assist those who are excluded from healthcare. MSF delivers care based on need and when we see injustice, we speak out. We are an organization that remains impartial, knowledgeable, and effective, and this is what makes the difference between life and death.  

People are our priority. At Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF)/ Artsen zonder Grenzen, we are committed to an inclusive culture that encourages and supports the diverse voices of our employees.   We encourage diverse applicants including individuals of all gender identities, ages, sexual orientations, nationalities, races, religions, beliefs, social and marital status, people with different abilities and all other diversity characteristics and how they work together.

Our Operations department is looking for a fulltime:

Head of Humanitarian Affairs, Advocacy & Operations Communications / Deputy Director of Operations

Based in Amsterdam

As the Head of OSCAR / Deputy Director of Operations, you hold a unique and critical position at the heart of MSF's mission. You are responsible for advancing our social mission by developing OCA's vision on bearing witness and speaking out, and for influencing strategic operational decision-making. You will be guided by the new ambitious strategic plan (2026-2031). 

You will lead efforts to draw attention to the suffering and needs of the people we assist, aiming to influence key external actors and the public, while navigating complex ethical dilemmas inherent in humanitarian action. 

After restructuring five years ago, we have been strengthening the tandem within our operations department, and streamlining organizational complexity. In the last five years a strong foundation has been built, you will continue building the bridge between the different departments, fostering and strengthening the collaboration across Operations and the Public Health Department (PHD). 

The Head of OSCAR / Deputy DirOps reports to the Director of Operations and is responsible for leading the OSCAR department of 22 FTE.

Key Responsibilities

  • Strategic Leadership: Define and implement OCA's overall vision and strategic policy framework for humanitarian affairs, advocacy, and operational communications. 

  • High-Level Advisory: Provide expert advice and analysis to OCA leadership (Director of Operations, Medical Director, General Director) and operational teams on positioning and resolving complex humanitarian dilemmas. 

  • Representation & Influence: Represent MSF in high-level forums, engage with external stakeholders (NGOs, research institutes, human rights organizations), and drive MSF's communication objectives within the MSF movement.

  • Team Management & Development: Lead, manage, and develop the OSCAR department, fostering a safe, engaged, and high-performing team environment.

  • Quality Assurance: Ensure the highest standards for all advocacy, communication, and research, safeguarding the validity of data and alignment with MSF's core values.

  • Organizational Synergy: Optimize collaboration between the OSCAR department, other OCA departments (Operations, Public Health), and the wider MSF movement. 

Who You Are

You are a strategic thinker with a strong commitment to MSF's principles and values. An influential leader and negotiator, capable of building consensus and driving decision-making. You possess excellent communication and representational skills. Finally, you have the ability to navigate ethical dilemmas and manage sensitive information with integrity.

Required

  • A Master’s degree in (humanitarian) law, international relations, political science, social sciences, or a related field.

  • MSF experience is required 

  • Fluency in English. Additional languages (e.g. French, Arabic and Spanish) are an asset 

  • Minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in humanitarian affairs, context analysis, operational communication, and/or advocacy within complex environments.

  • Proven senior-level experience in team management and leadership.

  • Deep knowledge and understanding of contemporary humanitarian issues, debates, and standards within the sector.

  • Strong analytical skills and the ability to translate complex situations into clear strategic positioning and advice.


What we offer

  • A fixed-term, 3 years contract with renewal option for another 3 years. This position is mandated, to 6 years maximum. 

  • Gross monthly salary between € 5,922 – € 8,153 depending on experience.

  • 30 days annual leave (full-time) plus 8% holiday allowance.

  • 100% employer-paid pension contributions.

  • Commuting allowance.

  • Personal development budget and access to internal/external training.

  • An inclusive workplace with colleagues from around the globe.


Application & Information

If you believe you are the candidate we are looking, we welcome you to apply directly via our website and upload a letter of motivation and CV (in English) as one combined document. In case you have any questions about the recruitment process please reach out to Francien Boumans (francien.boumans@amsterdam.msf.org). 

The closing date for application is 9 March 2026 at 23:59 CET. 

Selection will be by means of two interview rounds and scheduled to take place between 23 March and 12 April 2026. Besides interviews a case study/assessment will be part of the selection process. 

At Impactpool we do our best to provide you the most accurate info, but closing dates may be wrong on our site. Please check on the recruiting organization's page for the exact info. Candidates are responsible for complying with deadlines and are encouraged to submit applications well ahead.
Before applying, please make sure that you have read the requirements for the position and that you qualify. Applications from non-qualifying applicants will most likely be discarded by the recruiting manager.