Head of Support Services

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, established in 195

• The organization has been operational in Sudan since 2004, with six area offices located in Khartoum, Central Darfur, North Darfur, South Kordofan, Kosti, and Gedaref. DRC focuses on addressing immediate humanitarian needs while also engaging in longer-term development programming. The organization employs a significant number of staff across various sectors and operates in multiple countries, providing support to displaced individuals and communities affected by conflict and disaster.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Services (HoSS) plays a crucial role within the Senior Management Team, holding operational and strategic responsibility for key support functions including Finance, Human Resources, Logistics and Procurement, Administration, and IT. The HoSS is tasked with ensuring that all operational aspects of partnerships are effectively managed and that strategic direction is provided to support areas. This role is pivotal in ensuring the timely completion of annual performance indicators related to support functions and involves close collaboration with Area Managers, the Head of Programme, and Project Managers to address issues and prioritize tasks effectively. The HoSS is also responsible for implementing initiatives that stem from global and regional organizational development and financial accountability efforts, ensuring that communication remains clear and proactive across all levels of the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Support Services will lead and manage the Support Managers, including the Finance Manager, HR/Admin Manager, and Supply Chain Manager, providing technical support to Area Managers and team leaders. Responsibilities include establishing high-performing support teams, developing operational approaches, ensuring compliance with organizational guidelines, and managing the strategic development and implementation of support operations. The HoSS will oversee operational support units, ensuring that DRC maintains its capacity for rapid emergency response, particularly in procurement and transport. Additionally, the HoSS will manage risk by liaising with donors, auditors, and authorities, ensuring compliance with operational standards, and leading audit processes. The role also involves ensuring the effective use of the DRC Dynamics ERP system, applying data analytics to enhance performance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in operations management, with at least 3 years in a similar role within an international NGO. Proven leadership skills, competence in people management, and experience in conflict areas are essential. Candidates should have a degree in Management Sciences, Finance, Economics, or a related field, along with operational experience in finance, supply chain, human resources, and information management. Significant experience in procurement and tender processes is required, as well as strong analytical and critical thinking skills. Excellent communication, interpersonal, and influencing skills are necessary, along with the ability to motivate and persuade at high levels. Understanding of institutional fundraising and the cultural context of the countries in which DRC operates is also important.

Educational Background:
A degree in Management Sciences, Finance, Economics, or other relevant fields is required for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary knowledge and skills to manage the various support functions effectively and to contribute to the strategic direction of the organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in operations management roles, with at least 3 years in a similar role within an international NGO. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of managing support services in a humanitarian context, particularly in conflict-affected areas.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. This proficiency is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is 2 years, and it falls under Management Band E. The reporting line is to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director, with direct reports including the Supply Chain Manager, HR & Admin Manager, and Finance Manager. The work location is Port Sudan, designated as a Non-Family Duty Station. The expected start date for this position is 1st January 202

• Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for National or Expatriate staff. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications sent via email not being considered. The closing date for applications is 7th December 2025.