Head of Support Services

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for their rights, and works towards sustainable solutions for their future. The organization operates in conflict-affected areas and collaborates with local communities to facilitate responsible integration and, when possible, support the return of displaced individuals to their homes. DRC has grown to employ over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, with a vision centered on ensuring a dignified life for all displaced individuals. In Yemen, DRC has been active since 2008, operating through eight field offices and a workforce of 273 staff, focusing on providing immediate assistance, strengthening protective environments, and promoting self-reliance among affected communities. The organization's programmatic sectors include Protection, Camp Coordination and Camp Management, Economic Recovery, Humanitarian Disarmament, and Wash, Shelter, and Infrastructure (WASI).

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Services (HoSS) is a pivotal role within the Danish Refugee Council, reporting directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director. This position has a country focus, ensuring that DRC's procedures and guidelines are adhered to within Yemen. The HoSS is responsible for contributing to the development of country strategies, which are then translated into actionable plans and daily tasks. This role serves as a focal point for DRC Dynamics, providing essential support and technical guidance to country operations while overseeing various activities. The HoSS is tasked with ensuring the effectiveness and efficiency of support services across finance, administration, human resources, IT, and supply chain management. Additionally, the HoSS plays a crucial role in developing and implementing country-specific strategies, improving operational systems, processes, and policies in alignment with DRC's mission in Yemen. As a member of the Senior Management Team, the HoSS holds overall responsibility for program support and the timely completion of Annual Performance Indicators (APIs) related to support functions. The position also involves engaging with Area Managers, Sector Managers, and Project Managers to address issues related to finance, administration, and human resources, proactively resolving conflicts and prioritizing urgent tasks.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Support Services will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including:

• Management: As a core member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the HoSS will play a key role in strategic prioritization and decision-making processes on a daily basis. This includes leading and managing support managers, overseeing people planning, performance, well-being, and development. The HoSS will manage, deliver, and report on support services in alignment with program priorities, establish high-performing support teams, and ensure compliance with operational approaches and systems. The HoSS will also be responsible for the strategic development, management, and implementation of support operations, ensuring that technical support is available to programs in line with organizational priorities.
• Operational Management: The HoSS will oversee operational support units, providing strategic leadership and technical support to the areas under supervision. This includes ensuring that DRC maintains its operational capacity for rapid emergency response, adapting support services to align with DRC's geographic footprint and program strategy, and ensuring that Area Offices receive appropriate support from Country Office teams. The HoSS will also develop a risk management plan, maintain accurate administrative and legal systems, and build the capacity of operational support staff through training and mentoring.
• Risk Management: The HoSS will support the Country Director and SMT in liaising with donors, auditors, and authorities regarding compliance and audit issues. This includes supervising audits, controlling implementation of corrective actions, and ensuring the risk register is updated and action plans are executed.
• DRC Dynamics (ERP): The HoSS will develop strategic planning to enhance systematic learning and staff development regarding ERP functionalities, applying reports and data analytics to improve overall performance.

Required Qualifications:
To be considered for the Head of Support Services position, candidates must possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years' experience in a relevant field, with at least 3 years in people management.
• Proven operational management experience in finance, supply chain, human resources, or information management within conflict settings.
• Experience in a similar role within an international NGO, demonstrating leadership skills and competence in people management.
• Understanding of institutional fundraising and sensitivity to cultural dynamics.
• Experience working with ERP systems, including supply chain, finance, and HR functionalities.
• Proven ability to build capacity among national colleagues and partners.
• Full proficiency in spoken and written English is required, while Arabic language skills are considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in economics, business management, international development, or other relevant fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of the role and the operational environment in which DRC operates.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 5 years of relevant experience, with a minimum of 3 years specifically in people management. Candidates should have proven operational management experience in one or more thematic areas relevant to the role, particularly within conflict settings. Experience in a similar role in an international NGO is also essential, along with a demonstrated ability to lead and support change management processes effectively.

Languages:
Proficiency in spoken and written English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication is crucial for the role. Additionally, Arabic language skills are considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is two years, with the possibility of renewal based on funding availability. The position is classified as Band E1 - manager, with the duty station located in Sana'a, Yemen, and a country-wide scope. It is designated as a Non-Family Duty Station, and the start date is as soon as possible. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by submitting a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications closing on 22nd October 202

• For further inquiries, candidates can reach out to the provided email address, but applications sent directly to the email will not be considered.