Head of Programmes

We are looking for a highly motivated and qualified individual to have overall responsibility for the project activities within DRC Syria Program.  

Who are we?

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an International non-governmental organisation, which promotes and supports durable solutions to the problems faced by refugees and internally displaced people worldwide.

DRC has been actively assisting people and communities affected by the current Syrian crisis since 2011, with programmes in support of Syrians in Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey and of course Syria.

The DRC Syria programme, headquartered in Damascus, currently have 7 expatriate staff and more than 70 national employees – some of which are based at the DRC Community Centres located in 5 different areas throughout the country. In addition to this, DRC has a network of more than 100 volunteers supporting DRC’s operations. 

The country funding for 2015 is expected between USD 20 and 25 million, with about 70% for emergency operations. Main donors are: DANIDA; ECHO; UNHCR, DFID, and OFDA.

About the job

The Head of Programme is responsible for the management, development and implementation of DRC programme activities in Syria under the supervision of the Country Director. The Head of Programmes is given a delegated authority and responsibility for all issues pertaining to day-to-day operationalisation of programme activities and budgets, in accordance with DRC country strategies, plans and policies.

Duties and Responsibilities

The HoP provides leadership in the design and delivery of the DRC Syria programme. The HoP is responsible for the quality of programme delivery. S/he supports the development of in country expertise in each sector as well as supporting the staff capacity building agenda. Overall the HoP has responsibility for ensuring that programmes are well designed, are donor compliant and respect DRC accountability principles (CHS).

PROGRAMME STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT

Lead on overall programme strategy development and support technical leads to develop thematic strategies.

PROGRAMME DEVELOPMENT, PROPOSAL WRITING & REPORTING

Lead on programme development with the team and oversee proposal writing processes and coordinate with other departments as required (e.g, support services, communication and safety). Ensure that all internal and external reports are provided in a timely fashion in collaboration with relevant staff.

PROGRAMME MANAGEMENT

Oversee grants management and timely implementation of programme activities. 

MONITORING AND EVALUATION

Support the development of appropriate MEAL tools and systems and ensure that programme management tools and systems are relevant. Develop internal mechanisms for institutional learning and memory. Improve the quality of services provided through supervision of key staff, analysis and dissemination of MEAL data and lessons learnt, and review of DRC and other best practice guidelines.

FINANCE AND ADMINISTRATION

Coordinate with DRC’s support services to ensure that budgets are designed in accordance with needs. Ensure that expenditure are planned and properly managed. Manage DRC programme staff and ensure that all staff have relevant work plan, job description and that performance reviews take place. Ensure that DRC management principles are disseminated and adequately applied.

REPRESENTATION

Attend coordination meeting in coordination with the CD; with Government partners, regional and local authorities; donors; national level working groups, LHIF, local agencies etc. at all levels of project implementation as required.

MEDIA/PR/VISIBILITY

Support the CD in the development of communication materials, including project and programme brochures, case studies as well as press releases.

About you

To be successful in this role you must have:

• At least 7 years of international experience in an INGO Senior Management Position, with at least 5 years of experience in complex emergencies;
• At least 4 years management experience in large scale programmes;
• Proven experience in strategic development and program design, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation;
• Experience with range of donors including DfID, USAID/OFDA, UNHCR, EC, ECHO and UNICEF;
• Experience in working with national NGO partners and local/government authorities;
• Results-oriented management experience of a large, diverse and dynamic team, and a commitment to good leadership essential;
• Practical and proven skills in negotiation and conflict resolution with a wide range of stakeholders essential.
• Knowledge of refugee issues and related policies;
• Analytical and problem solving skills and an ability to work independently and with a team needed.
• University degree with advanced training/courses either in management, international relations, development studies, or other related field.
• Fluent in English, spoken and written

  Desirable qualifications

• Experience in livelihoods, housing/infrastructure, protection, direct assistance and relief highly desired;
• Arabic is an advantage

In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRC’ five core competencies:  

Striving for excellence: You focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process.  

Collaborating: You involve relevant parties and encourage feedback.  

Taking the lead: You take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation. 

Communicating: You listen and speak effectively and honestly.  

Demonstrating integrity: You act in line with our vision and values. 

We offer

DRC will offer the successful applicant a 24 months contract, renewable dependent on both funding and performance. You must be available to start work as soon as possible and be willing and able to work in Damascus, Syria.

Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for Expatriates; please refer to www.drc.ngo under Vacancies. This position will be placed at level A9.

Application process

Interested? Then apply for this position by clicking on the apply button. 

If you have questions or are facing problems with the online application process, please contact job@drc.dk

Applications close September 13, 2018. 

Need further information?

For further information about the Danish Refugee Council, please consult our website www.drc.ngo