Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that focuses on advancing children's rights and promoting equality for girls. Established over 85 years ago, Plan International operates in more than 80 countries worldwide, working collaboratively with children, young people, supporters, and partners to address the root causes of challenges faced by girls and vulnerable children. The organization is dedicated to ensuring that every child can realize their potential, free from the constraints of poverty, violence, exclusion, and discrimination. Plan International's mission is to create a just world where all children can thrive, and it actively engages in policy advocacy and program delivery to support children's rights from birth through adulthood, particularly in crisis situations.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director for South Sudan will play a pivotal role in leading the organization's humanitarian and nexus programming efforts in one of the world's most challenging environments. This high-profile position requires an experienced and visionary leader who can drive strategic growth, ensure impactful program delivery, and represent Plan International at both national and international levels. The Country Director will be responsible for influencing policy, safeguarding the well-being of girls and vulnerable children, and managing a significant regional portfolio valued at €220 million. The role involves collaborating with over 2,800 staff across multiple countries and requires a strong commitment to gender equality and child rights.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will lead the delivery of high-quality humanitarian programs that align with Plan International's global strategy. Key responsibilities include ensuring the establishment of strong funding pipelines and strategic partnerships with UN agencies, bilateral and multilateral donors, and non-traditional funders. The Country Director will represent Plan International in national and international coordination platforms, including UN clusters and humanitarian country teams. Additionally, the role involves driving strategic planning, financial oversight, and risk management to ensure operational excellence and compliance. The Country Director will champion gender equality, safeguarding, and inclusion across all programs and organizational practices, while also leading a high-performing team that prioritizes staff well-being. Advocacy for girls' rights at national and international levels, including media engagement, is also a critical aspect of this role.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess extensive experience in leading large-scale humanitarian responses in complex environments, ideally with direct experience in South Sudan or similar contexts. A deep understanding of humanitarian principles, law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, Sphere standards, and nexus programming is essential. The ideal candidate will have a strong grasp of the geopolitical, cultural, and humanitarian context of South Sudan or comparable settings. Proven abilities in managing complex budgets, ensuring donor compliance, and maintaining financial accountability in volatile contexts are required. Candidates should also demonstrate skills in disaster preparedness, risk reduction, and sustainable development approaches, along with a commitment to child rights, gender equality, and feminist leadership. Experience working with diverse stakeholders, including government, donors, UN agencies, INGOs, and local NGOs, is crucial.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position, typically including a degree in international development, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas pertinent to humanitarian response and child rights advocacy are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a proven track record of extensive experience in humanitarian leadership roles, particularly in complex and resource-constrained environments. Experience in managing large teams and programs, as well as a history of successful advocacy and policy influence, is critical for this position.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent communication skills required for effective representation and advocacy. Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable and considered an asset for this role, given the context of South Sudan.

Additional Notes:
This position is a three-year fixed-term contract and is classified as a mandatory unaccompanied position. The role is based in Juba, South Sudan, and global recruitment support with relocation is available if required. The Country Director will report to the Director of Sub Region, Middle East, North Africa, and the Horn. The closing date for applications is Sunday, 5th October, with first-round interviews expected to take place during the week commencing 20th October 202

• Plan International is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, and strives to create a workplace environment that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.