Head of Humanitarian Assistance and Operations (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while working towards harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various aspects of migration management and humanitarian assistance, and has a diverse workforce that reflects the global nature of its mission.

Job Overview:
The Head of Humanitarian Assistance and Operations will oversee the implementation of refugee response programs in Cox’s Bazar Sub-Office. This role involves project development, management, and implementation of preparedness and response programs funded by multiple donors, ensuring alignment with the organization’s policies and donor requirements. The position requires collaboration with the Resource Management Unit for financial oversight and support to Programme Managers in monitoring expenditures. The Head will also provide leadership in context analysis and strategic planning, ensuring integrated assistance to refugees. The role includes representation in high-level government coordination meetings and participation in inter-agency coordination mechanisms to harmonize approaches to the ongoing crisis response. The Head will also engage in donor outreach and establish operational partnerships with various stakeholders to support IOM’s programmatic objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of refugee response programs in Cox’s Bazar, ensuring alignment with IOM policies and donor requirements.
• Manage project development and implementation, including financial oversight and monitoring of program expenditures.
• Provide leadership in context analysis and strategic planning for mid- to long-term programming objectives.
• Represent IOM in high-level government coordination meetings and inter-agency mechanisms.
• Assist in donor outreach and engagement, identifying funding opportunities.
• Establish operational partnerships with UN agencies, INGOs, and government institutions.
• Conduct regular on-site monitoring and field travel to assess program performance and implement necessary improvements.
• Design and carry out program impact evaluations as required.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Chief of Mission or Head of Sub-Office.

Required Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in Social Sciences, Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Physical Sciences, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited institution with seven years of relevant professional experience; or a University degree in the above fields with nine years of relevant experience.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in humanitarian/recovery affairs, with knowledge of global policies and guidelines related to humanitarian reform.
• Experience in implementing and delivering humanitarian/recovery projects at the field level is essential.
• Proven experience in complex settings requiring sound judgment and operational flexibility.
• Previous experience with humanitarian agencies, particularly the UN, is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Economics, International Relations, Political Science, Physical Sciences, Engineering, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with additional years of relevant professional experience is acceptable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in the field of humanitarian and recovery affairs. Candidates should have a strong background in implementing humanitarian projects, particularly in complex settings that demand operational flexibility and sound judgment. Previous experience in a similar capacity with humanitarian agencies, especially within the UN system, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both oral and written. Knowledge of Bengali, Chittagonian, or Rohingya is considered a strong advantage. Proficiency in another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is also advantageous and will be evaluated during the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is Special Short Term Graded, with an initial duration of six months and the possibility of extension. The position is classified at the P-4 grade level. Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile. The selection process may be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in similar positions for a period of 24 months. The appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances, and any residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including discrimination and harassment. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.