Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Founded in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of people each year, focusing on core competencies such as education, protection, and livelihoods. NRC has been active in Venezuela since 2005, responding to the ongoing humanitarian crisis caused by the country's economic, social, and political turmoil.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme position at NRC is a senior management role responsible for overseeing the overall programmatic strategy across the organization's operations in Venezuela. The successful candidate will be tasked with developing high-quality integrated programs by collaborating closely with field staff and leading a team of technical advisers. This role requires a strong focus on performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, and staff development, ensuring that all team members are aligned with NRC's core competencies and standards. The Head of Programme will also play a crucial role in contributing to the country strategy and annual reviews, as well as steering fundraising efforts to expand NRC's donor base in Venezuela. The position demands a proactive approach to advocacy and communication, ensuring that programmatic evidence informs advocacy efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programme will have several key responsibilities, including:

• Line management of directly reporting staff, ensuring effective performance management processes are in place.
• Setting clear goals aligned with the country strategy and priorities, and supporting staff in achieving these goals.
• Overseeing workforce planning, recruitment, staff induction, and development, while ensuring the Duty of Care for all staff members.
• Providing support for Core Competencies such as Programme Development and Management (PDM), Grants, and Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL), including the development of relevant training and coaching for new hires.
• Participating as a member of the Country Management Group (CMG) and contributing to the development of the Country Strategy and Plan of Action.
• Developing Core Competency strategies that align with regional and global priorities.
• Leading fundraising and engagement efforts to widen the donor base for NRC in Venezuela.
• Collaborating with the Advocacy and Communication Coordinator to ensure that advocacy efforts are based on evidence from NRC's programs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management position within a humanitarian or recovery context. They should have a proven track record of working in complex and volatile environments, with experience in developing project proposals and operational strategies. Candidates should demonstrate core competency expertise and have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position. A strong understanding of leadership skills and profiles is essential, along with fluency in both Spanish and English, both written and verbal. A valid driver's license is required, and knowledge of the Venezuelan context is considered an advantage. Experience with NRC's Core Competencies, particularly in Protection or Education, is preferred, as is experience in hyperinflation humanitarian contexts, project cycle management, grants management, and MEAL management. Candidates should also have demonstrated knowledge of protection mainstreaming and accountability to affected populations, as well as experience in representation and advocacy and developing partnerships.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Head of Programme position includes a relevant degree in a field related to humanitarian work, international development, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas such as project management, public administration, or social sciences may be advantageous. Candidates should also have a strong understanding of the principles and practices of humanitarian assistance and development.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have at least 5 years of experience in senior management roles within humanitarian or recovery contexts. This experience should include working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating the ability to lead teams effectively and manage programs under challenging conditions. Candidates should have a history of developing successful project proposals and operational strategies, as well as experience in fundraising and donor engagement.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is mandatory for this position, with both written and verbal communication skills being essential. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The duty station for this position is Caracas, Venezuela, and the contract is for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension. It is important to note that for international contracts, Caracas is classified as a Non-Family Duty Station. The role may require travel of up to 30%. The salary and benefits will be based on grade 11 of NRC's regional salary scale, along with accompanying terms and conditions. NRC is committed to equal opportunities and diversity in the workplace, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds.