Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. The IRC has a significant presence in Afghanistan, having opened its country program in 1988, and employs over 4000 staff members across 11 provinces, managing an annual portfolio exceeding $60 million. The IRC's mission is to provide humanitarian relief and support early recovery and development activities, particularly in response to the ongoing crises in Afghanistan, which has faced over 40 years of conflict, natural disasters, and the COVID-19 pandemic. The organization is committed to delivering lasting impact and restoring dignity and hope to millions of people worldwide, making it a force for humanity.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director is a senior management position responsible for the overall leadership and supervisory management of IRC staff, programming, operations, and relationships in Afghanistan. This role encompasses ensuring program quality and accountability, resource acquisition and stewardship, staff well-being, safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, performance management, and external representation. The Country Director serves as IRC’s principal representative for the Afghanistan program to various stakeholders, including government authorities, donors, international organizations, civil society, and the media. The successful candidate will lead a diverse team in delivering high-quality, cost-effective humanitarian programs, ensuring alignment with IRC’s strategic vision for Afghanistan. This position requires exemplary leadership abilities, strong communication skills, and a commitment to building partnerships and diversifying program resources. The Country Director will oversee the strategic direction and coordination of the country program, ensuring compliance with IRC standards and promoting an inclusive organizational culture.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director's major responsibilities include:

• Leadership and Representation: Develop a vision and strategies for high-quality programs, represent IRC in global forums, maintain professional relations with colleagues, and initiate partnerships with local organizations.
• Strategic Direction, Program Quality and Growth: Execute the strategic vision, ensure program quality, expand humanitarian programming, and establish strong communication with internal stakeholders.
• Fundraising, Donor & Partner Relations: Stay informed on issues impacting the program, submit high-quality proposals, and maintain relationships with key donors and stakeholders.
• Stewardship and Operational Management: Ensure compliance with IRC and donor requirements, drive operational excellence, and oversee financial management.
• People & Culture: Develop a positive work environment, support staff development, and promote staff well-being.
• Safety, Security and Access Management: Manage safety and security for the country program and maintain contingency plans.
• Communications: Encourage open communication among staff and partners.
• Advocacy: Contribute to advocacy efforts and promote the rights and needs of clients served by IRC.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant international work experience in emergency, post-conflict, and development programming, along with extensive program/business development and fundraising experience. They should have proven experience with various international donors, a strategic mindset for innovative responses to humanitarian issues, and a passion for humanitarian aid. Strong relationship-building skills with government officials, donor representatives, and community leaders are essential. A keen understanding of Afghanistan's political, social, and economic complexities is required, along with the ability to thrive in a complex environment. Candidates should demonstrate leadership and management experience with multi-disciplinary teams, effective mentoring skills, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Educational Background:
A relevant advanced degree in international development, humanitarian assistance, public administration, or a related field is typically required for this position. Candidates with additional certifications or training in humanitarian programming or management may be preferred.

Experience:
The position requires a proven track record of leadership and management experience in complex humanitarian contexts, including experience supervising multi-disciplinary teams in cross-cultural settings. Candidates should have experience in managing high-quality programming and delivering oversight of donor-funded projects, as well as a history of successful advocacy for resources and recognition of humanitarian issues.

Languages:
Professional fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Proficiency in Dari Persian and Pashto is considered an advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require approximately 25% travel within and outside the region for workshops, meetings, and representation. The IRC adheres to a strict Code of Conduct, emphasizing integrity, service, accountability, and equality. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds.