Area Operations Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization is committed to providing life-saving assistance and long-term support to millions of people each year, focusing on the most vulnerable populations affected by crises. NRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals receive the necessary aid and protection, while advocating for their rights and dignity.

Job Overview:
The Area Operations Manager for Mexico will play a crucial role in overseeing the operational aspects of the designated Area Office. This position requires a highly qualified and resilient professional who can effectively coordinate program implementation and ensure that support services are compliant and of high quality. The Area Operations Manager will be responsible for driving the achievement of key program objectives, addressing operational challenges, and maintaining the delivery of services in the area. This role also involves escalating risks to country leadership to ensure effective program/project implementation. The successful candidate will be expected to manage a team, support staff development, and collaborate with various units to align area-specific needs with the overall country strategy and action plan.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Area Operations Manager will have several key responsibilities, including:

• Line management of directly reporting staff, overseeing performance management processes, and setting clear goals aligned with the country strategy.
• Managing workforce planning, recruitment, staff induction, and development while ensuring the Duty of Care for all staff members.
• Acting as a member of the Country Management Group (CMG) and chairing the Area Management Group.
• Collaborating with the program unit to ensure that area-specific needs are integrated into core competencies and the country strategy.
• Supporting the development of concept notes, project proposals, and budgets to enhance response activities.
• Monitoring and developing the area office budget, donor proposals, and reports in compliance with contractual commitments and global guidelines.
• Conducting needs assessments and implementing emergency response activities in coordination with the country office program team.
• Ensuring optimal resource utilization within allocated budgets and strategies, adhering to donor requirements and organizational procedures.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of experience in a senior project and team management role, preferably within a humanitarian or recovery context. They should have a proven track record of managing teams in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating strong leadership skills and the ability to navigate challenging situations. Additionally, candidates should have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position and an awareness of their own skills and leadership profile. Fluency in both Spanish and English, both written and verbal, is mandatory.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in Political Sciences, Social Studies, Business Administration, or any other relevant field is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian operations and the socio-political context in which NRC operates.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least three years of relevant experience in a senior project management role, particularly in humanitarian or recovery settings. Experience in managing teams and dealing with complex issues in high-pressure environments is essential. Candidates should also have experience working in volatile and insecure contexts, as well as familiarity with the specific challenges faced in Mexico, particularly in states like Chihuahua and Michoacán.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication in both languages is crucial for collaboration with local staff, stakeholders, and international partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Michoacán, Mexico, and is offered as a fixed national contract for a duration of 12 months. The role requires approximately 40% travel to areas of intervention and to Mexico City. The salary will be determined according to NRC’s salary scale, specifically at grade 9, with accompanying terms and conditions. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all candidates regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization fosters a culture that encourages innovative ideas and empowers employees at all levels.