Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. Founded in 1946, NRC has grown to operate in over 30 countries, providing aid and support to millions of people in need. The organization focuses on various core competencies, including Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), Shelter, and Education. NRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals and communities receive the necessary support to rebuild their lives and regain their dignity. In Cameroon, NRC has been operational since 2017, addressing the needs of crisis-affected populations in multiple regions, including the Far North, Northwest, Southwest, East, and Adamawa. With a diverse portfolio of grants and a total annual budget of USD 10 million, NRC plays a crucial role in coordination efforts at both national and regional levels, leading various clusters and Areas of Responsibility (AoRs).

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme (HoP) is a pivotal role within NRC's operations in Cameroon, responsible for the overall programmatic strategy and ensuring that all interventions are aligned with humanitarian standards and NRC's strategic objectives. The HoP will oversee the project cycle management (PCM), ensuring that programs are designed, implemented, and evaluated effectively. This position requires a strategic thinker who can provide technical oversight and direction, ensuring that NRC's programs not only address immediate humanitarian needs but also contribute to long-term solutions for displaced populations. The HoP will be a key member of the Senior Management Team, playing a vital role in cross-cutting programmatic information management, needs assessments, monitoring and evaluation systems, and ensuring that learning informs program improvement and donor reporting. The role also involves fundraising and donor engagement, representing NRC in external coordination platforms, and ensuring that teams collaborate effectively to deliver integrated programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programme include:

• Line management of the Programme Team, ensuring effective leadership and support.
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies, guidance, and procedures in all programmatic activities.
• Providing programmatic input to the Country Strategy and Action Plans, aligning with regional and global priorities.
• Developing Core Competency strategies that reflect the needs of the affected populations and NRC's mission.
• Identifying funding opportunities and developing funding strategies, including forecasting and budget allocations.
• Managing grants, ensuring compliance with donor standards, and overseeing reporting processes.
• Implementing quality control measures, including Monitoring, Evidence, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems.
• Representing NRC in-country and promoting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees in line with the advocacy strategy.
• Collaborating with other departments to ensure a coherent and integrated approach to program delivery.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Head of Programme position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management role within a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Proven experience working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
• Expertise in core competencies relevant to NRC's mission, including design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and fundraising.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage and motivate teams effectively.
• Fluency in both English and French, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Familiarity with the context in Central Africa, particularly in Cameroon, is an advantage.
• Experience in program strategy development, Project Cycle Management, and grants management.
• Demonstrated ability to develop strategic partnerships and engage with various stakeholders.
• Knowledge of protection mainstreaming, community engagement, and accountability to affected populations. 1
• Experience in representation and advocacy efforts.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in social sciences, international development, humanitarian studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response, program management, or related areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 5 years in a senior management role within a humanitarian or recovery context. Candidates should have a track record of working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating the ability to navigate challenges effectively and lead teams in delivering impactful programs.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as both languages are essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills relevant to the context in Cameroon may be considered an advantage, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
The Head of Programme position is based in Yaounde, Cameroon, with a contract duration of 12 months. The salary is classified as grade 11 on NRC's salary scale, which reflects the seniority and responsibilities associated with the role. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization fosters a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovation, providing employees with opportunities to contribute ideas and take initiative. Additionally, NRC emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to uphold the highest standards of respect and dignity, contributing to a safe environment for all.