Area Manager, North

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that has been operational since 194

• With a mission to help people forced to flee, NRC has grown to employ around 15,000 staff members working in crises across 40 countries. The organization provides life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people every year, focusing on the needs of refugees and displaced populations. NRC started its operations in Iran in 2012 and has since become the largest international NGO in the country, operating in ten provinces. The organization is committed to promoting the safety and well-being of Afghan refugees and fostering an environment that upholds their rights and dignity. NRC's work in Iran is crucial, given the country's hosting of one of the largest and most protracted refugee crises in the world, with over 4.4 million Afghans living in Iran today. The organization also engages in advocacy efforts to protect the rights of displaced individuals and calls for increased humanitarian funding and engagement to generate structural changes in protection and assistance in the region.

Job Overview:
The Area Manager, North will oversee NRC’s operations across the northern area of Iran, which includes five provinces and a diverse portfolio of programs and support functions. This role is pivotal in providing strategic leadership for NRC activities, ensuring that they align with NRC’s Country Strategy, policies, donor commitments, and humanitarian principles. The Area Manager will be responsible for effective area-level coordination, operational management, and representation with provincial authorities, humanitarian actors, and relevant stakeholders. The position also involves leading integrated area operations across program and support functions, as well as spearheading emergency preparedness and response efforts. The ideal candidate will possess strong analytical expertise, high integrity, and exceptional interpersonal, networking, and stakeholder management skills, enabling them to collaborate effectively and build constructive relationships with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Area Manager will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: leading people management and line management processes such as performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, induction, development, and ensuring duty of care for staff. The role includes overseeing project implementation, which encompasses managing the master support budget and coordinating inputs for donor proposals and reports. The Area Manager will conduct needs assessments, develop emergency response plans, and implement response strategies, including cash-based interventions and market-based programs. Resource management within allocated project budgets and thematic strategies is also a key responsibility. The Area Manager will represent NRC in various forums, engage in networking activities, and build capacity through training of staff. Additionally, the role entails ensuring staff safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, which is paramount in the operational context.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess senior management experience in a humanitarian or recovery context, demonstrating strong leadership skills and expertise in access negotiations with local authorities. Experience in staff management is essential, along with exposure to complex and volatile contexts. The ideal candidate should also have a proven track record of developing and integrating distinctive strategies, as well as strong analytical skills and high integrity. Excellent interpersonal skills are necessary for effective stakeholder management and collaboration with various partners.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response or management may be advantageous and are often preferred by employers in this sector.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in senior management roles within humanitarian or recovery contexts. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to lead teams effectively, manage complex projects, and navigate challenging operational environments. Experience working with local authorities and in negotiations is also crucial, as is familiarity with the specific challenges faced by displaced populations in the region.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the local context, would be considered a valuable asset and could enhance the candidate's effectiveness in the role.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Tehran, Iran, with a contract duration of 12 months, which may be extended based on performance, requirements, and funding availability. The role involves approximately 15% travel. NRC offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, and the organization is committed to diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and NRC promotes a work culture that empowers all employees to share ideas and take responsibility.