Head of National Office

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is an international organization established to assist persons in need of international protection, including asylum seekers, refugees, stateless persons, and internally displaced persons. The UNHCR operates globally, with a mission to safeguard the rights and well-being of these vulnerable populations. The organization has a presence in numerous countries, working to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. UNHCR's work is guided by the principles of the 1951 Refugee Convention and its 1967 Protocol, and it aims to provide durable solutions for refugees and displaced persons. The organization is committed to promoting international cooperation and solidarity in addressing the challenges faced by forcibly displaced individuals. UNHCR has a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and civil society organizations, to fulfill its mandate and achieve its goals.

Job Overview:
The Head of National Office (HoNO) at UNHCR Angola is responsible for overseeing the operations of the National Office, acting under the delegated authority of the UNHCR Representative or Deputy Representative. This position entails managing protection issues, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security concerns, and operational matters within the geographical area of responsibility. The HoNO will regularly report on developments related to the protection of persons of concern, ensuring that the basic needs of refugees and other vulnerable populations are assessed and met. The role requires active engagement with government officials, NGOs, and local media to advocate for the rights of refugees and stateless persons. The HoNO will also participate in UN Country Team meetings and support the UN Designated Official in security management. This position is crucial for maintaining a credible protection presence and ensuring compliance with UNHCR's policies and standards.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of National Office include monitoring and reporting on the implementation of refugee responsibilities and international obligations of local authorities, advocating for UNHCR standards, assessing the needs of the concerned population, and ensuring timely implementation of assistance projects. The HoNO will manage UNHCR resources effectively, maintain security measures for the office and residential compounds, and ensure staff welfare. The position also involves guiding and coaching subordinate staff, preparing regular reports for the UNHCR Regional Representative, representing UNHCR in inter-agency forums, enforcing compliance with UNHCR policies, leading risk assessments, and performing other related duties as required. The HoNO will oversee the development and implementation of local protection strategies and ensure the inclusion of forcibly displaced persons in national systems and joint programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate. Essential qualifications include knowledge of UNHCR's mandate and field-level application, applied knowledge of protection principles, operational standards, and office management. Functional skills required for this position include computer literacy, understanding of refugee protection principles, office management, and administration of staff contracts and benefits. Candidates should demonstrate accountability, analytical thinking, client orientation, communication skills, and the ability to empower and build trust within the team.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Law, Management, Political Science, or a related field. Relevant certifications in programme management are also essential for candidates applying for this role.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in a similar role, with a strong understanding of UNHCR's operational context and the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government entities and NGOs. Experience in office management and compliance oversight is considered an asset, as well as familiarity with protection and solutions strategies for asylum seekers and refugees.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese and English is mandatory for this position, with additional fluency in French being desirable. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the UN system and with local authorities.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a National Professional Officer role, with a family type designation of 'Family' and a hardship level of 'B'. The target start date for this position is December 1, 202

• The role is based in Luanda, Angola, which is categorized as a family duty station. The incumbent will be expected to conduct missions across Angola and will have supervisory oversight of two national staff members. The position offers a competitive salary and benefits package, and candidates are encouraged to apply by the deadline of October 29, 2025.