Operations Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, focusing on disaster response, economic development, and community resilience. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. In Sudan, Mercy Corps has been operational since 2004, with a country office in Khartoum and field offices in South Darfur, South Kordofan, North Kordofan, and Gedaref states. The organization is committed to addressing the challenges faced by Sudanese communities, particularly in light of the ongoing crisis due to conflict and climate change.

Job Overview:
The Operations Director position at Mercy Corps is crucial for providing proactive leadership in the effective and timely delivery of humanitarian aid to crisis-affected populations in Sudan. The role involves ensuring that operational policies, procedures, and team work plans are in place to support logistics, procurement, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and IT functions. The Operations Director will report to the Country Director and will coordinate across various operational departments to ensure compliance with agency, donor, and government expectations. This position is vital as Mercy Corps adapts its strategies to respond to the evolving crisis in Sudan, focusing on food security, shelter, and protection for conflict-affected individuals. The Operations Director will also work closely with regional support and field-led operations to consolidate management systems that facilitate the delivery of support services, ensuring that the Sudan team is well-resourced to deliver high-quality humanitarian programming.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Operations Director will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: maintaining systems for efficient capture of program operational data for decision-making; managing reliable and cost-effective operations; ensuring compliance with operational policies and procedures; identifying and mitigating risks associated with the operational landscape; coordinating with various departments to facilitate smooth implementation of programs; analyzing the operating environment and adjusting operations accordingly; maintaining control over the operations budget; promoting continuous organizational learning; ensuring compliance with global procurement and logistics policies; acting as the focal point for audit matters; developing local policies and procedures; conducting field visits for supervision and support; ensuring effective resource management; overseeing procurement processes; managing transport and travel support; and tracking performance of the operations team based on key performance indicators.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Operations Director position must possess a BA/BS degree in a relevant field and have a minimum of 5 years of senior management experience in either a corporate or INGO sector. This experience should include operational support and developing strategies with supervisory responsibilities. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, the ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams, and a commitment to humanitarian principles. They should also have analytical, decision-making, and strategic planning skills, as well as the ability to manage multiple priorities. Effective verbal and written communication skills are essential, along with proficiency in Microsoft Office applications. Excellent oral and written English skills are required, and proficiency in Arabic is a plus.

Educational Background:
A BA/BS degree in a relevant field is required for the Operations Director position. This educational background should provide candidates with the foundational knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of humanitarian operations and management.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of senior management experience, particularly in operational support roles within the corporate or INGO sectors. This experience should encompass developing strategies and managing teams, as well as navigating both development and emergency contexts. Candidates should demonstrate a willingness and ability to adapt to changing circumstances, particularly in emergency situations, and should have a proven track record of building credibility with colleagues and stakeholders at all levels.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills required. Proficiency in Arabic is considered a plus, as it would enhance communication with local stakeholders and team members.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Port Sudan, with an eventual transition to the Khartoum office once security conditions allow. It is an unaccompanied position, and housing will be provided by the Country Office. The role requires frequent travel to field sites, with up to 40% of the time spent in various operational areas, some of which may be insecure or austere. Candidates should be prepared to work in an environment with challenges related to energy, transportation, and communication. Mercy Corps emphasizes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.