Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster relief, economic development, and community resilience. The organization is dedicated to helping people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. With a team of 475 members in Pakistan, all of whom are nationals, Mercy Corps has been active in the country since 1986, implementing programs in various sectors including public health, economic opportunities, water security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, food security, and disaster relief. The organization collaborates closely with the Pakistan government and various stakeholders to enhance its impact across 120 districts through offices located in Islamabad, Quetta, Lahore, and Hyderabad.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director (CD) is a visionary leader responsible for managing all programming in Pakistan, ensuring lasting improvements in the lives of team members and program participants. The CD formulates the strategic direction for the country program in alignment with Mercy Corps’ 10-year Pathway to Possibility. This role involves overseeing a diverse portfolio of health, education, protection, livelihoods, and emergency response programs, with an average yearly budget of USD 15 million. The CD is also tasked with implementing security protocols and developing sustainable, multi-sector programming that addresses development issues through innovative solutions and partnerships. The position requires strong leadership skills to manage a large team across Pakistan, ensuring adherence to Mercy Corps policies and procedures, including the organization's code of ethics.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will be responsible for several key areas:

• Strategy & Vision: Formulate and communicate a clear vision for the team and stakeholders, lead annual country strategy planning, and ensure alignment with Mercy Corps’ objectives.
• Influence & Representation: Represent Mercy Corps at all levels of government and with donors, partners, and communities, ensuring compliance with local regulations and fostering relationships with key stakeholders.
• Team Management: Create a respectful work environment, oversee training and development, provide feedback, and facilitate meetings to empower team members.
• Program Operations Management: Ensure program quality and impact, manage budgets, and maintain operational systems that support program delivery.
• Finance & Compliance Management: Ensure compliance with donor regulations, manage contracts, and maintain operational structures that support field programs.
• Safeguarding Responsibilities: Integrate safeguarding practices into work, promote open communication, and encourage reporting of concerns.
• Security: Liaise with security teams to manage risks and ensure safety protocols are followed. The CD will also supervise various managerial roles within the organization, ensuring effective leadership and accountability.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, with 7-10 years of field experience in international relief and development programs, including a proven track record in managing large and complex development initiatives. A minimum of 5 years in senior-level leadership roles is required, along with previous experience as a country director for large country offices. Successful candidates will have demonstrated success in collaborating with government, private sector, and NGO partners in complex environments. An internationally recognized qualification in project or program management is preferred, or a commitment to obtain such a qualification early in the role. Candidates should also have experience in managing large teams and possess strong financial and grants management skills, particularly with donors such as USAID, Global Fund, and UN agencies.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in a relevant field. This advanced education is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and relief work, as well as for effectively managing programs and teams in challenging environments.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in international relief and development, specifically 7-10 years of field experience managing large and complex programs. Candidates should have at least 5 years of senior-level leadership experience, demonstrating capacity building and field management skills. Previous experience as a country director is highly desirable, along with a proven ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders in complex environments. Familiarity with the political and social context of Pakistan, as well as experience in insecure environments, is preferred.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Proficiency in Urdu and other local languages is considered a plus, as it enhances communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Islamabad and requires approximately 15%-20% travel to field offices, which may present varying levels of operational risks. The Country Director will represent Mercy Corps both during and outside work hours, maintaining professionalism and respect for local customs and laws. The organization emphasizes diversity and inclusion, striving to create a workplace that reflects a variety of backgrounds and perspectives. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to safeguarding principles and ethical standards.