Director, Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE)

BACKGROUND:

The International Rescue Committee responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. At work today in over 35 countries and 25 U.S. cities, the IRC restores safety, dignity, and hope to millions who are uprooted and struggling to endure. In the U.S., the IRC supports newly arrived refugees admitted to the United States by providing initial basic support and an expanding array of extended services through a network of staff members and volunteers, enabling refugees to establish new lives and become self-sufficient, productive citizens. Overseas, in addition to numerous humanitarian assistance programs, the IRC operates the Resettlement Support Center (RSC) for East Asia based in Bangkok, Thailand.

Implemented by the IRC, the Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE) is a technical assistance program designed to strengthen linkages between overseas Cultural Orientation (CO) programs offered at all RSCs globally and CO delivered as part of reception and placement activities conducted upon refugees’ arrival.

SCOPE OF WORK:

The Director of the Cultural Orientation Resource Exchange (CORE) sets the vision, expectations, and requirements of the program and oversees day to do day operations of CORE.The Director is responsible for the hiring, supervision, and development of staff.The position is also responsible for the monitoring and evaluation of the program.The Director of CORE reports to the IRC Senior Director for Processing and Resettlement Programs.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

·Prepare CORE performance plan with clear objectives and achievable benchmarks in accordance with the Bureau of Population, Refugees, and Migration (PRM)’s established objectives and activities;

·Serve as primary CORE liaison with PRM and the CO Working Group, providing technical assistance as needed;

·Provide direct management and oversight of CORE, including the recruitment, supervision, development, and evaluation of staff and interns;

·Ensure that all CORE activities comply with donor and IRC standards of professional conduct;

·Develop key messages for Cultural Orientation consistent with emerging resettlement needs;

·Oversee the design and development of CO program evaluation models and student learning assessment methodologies;

·Conduct regular program monitoring and evaluation of CORE activities;

·Oversee the coordination of CO focus groups, workshops, conferences, exchanges, and site visits;

·Ensure the successful and timely implementation of CORE program targets;

·Develop and monitor the CORE budget in conjunction with the Senior Director for Processing and Resettlement Programs and USP Budget and Finance Program Officers.

·Other responsibilities as assigned.

REQUIREMENTS:

·Bachelors Degree in a related field required, advanced degree a plus;

·Minimum 10 years progressive work experience with social service or humanitarian assistance programs with experience in the field of program design;

·Minimum 5 years program management experience;

·Demonstrated in-depth knowledge of the US Refugee Admissions Program and CO programs;

·Excellent written and oral communication skills: the ability to communicate effectively with colleagues and partners;

·Solid diplomatic and networking skills: the ability to effectively manage a variety of internal and external relationships, including relationships with donors and government officials;

·Proven people management and leadership skills: the ability to lead staff and promote productivity in a challenging work environment;

·Previous financial management experience: the ability to effectively manage program budgets;

·Solid organizational skills with the ability to juggle multiple tasks, set priorities, effectively manage time, and meet deadlines;

·The ability to be flexible and work well under pressure in a fast-paced team environment;

·Solid computer skills: facility with Microsoft Office and email/internet software.