Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, established to provide assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and migrants. DRC operates in 34 countries, focusing on a rights-based approach to humanitarian assistance. The organization has been active in Venezuela since 2019, responding to the urgent needs of vulnerable communities and those in mixed migration movements. DRC is committed to scaling up its response in Venezuela through integrated programming, aiming to address both immediate and long-term needs of affected populations.

Job Overview:
As the Head of Programme, you will play a crucial role in shaping and coordinating the development of the DRC Venezuela country strategy and sector strategies. This position requires close collaboration with the Humanitarian Country teams to ensure the technical design of proposals and budgets is aligned with DRC's mission. You will oversee the technical programme unit, which supports base managers and programme coordinators in implementing quality programming. Your responsibilities will also include managing the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) team to ensure effective monitoring of DRC’s programming. As a member of the senior management team, you will contribute to the overall operations of DRC in Venezuela, ensuring that the organization meets its strategic goals and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Program Strategy and Business Development: You will be responsible for the overall programmatic strategy across the entire country operation, ensuring strategic coherence and vision. This includes drafting the DRC Strategic Programme Document and providing technical expertise on programme quality and development. You will lead assessments for emergency or longer-term programming and shape the Advocacy strategy for the country.
• Quality and Accountability of Programs: You will develop policies, processes, and standards to enhance programme quality, ensuring that DRC values and code of conduct are upheld. You will support the grants team in submitting high-quality donor reports.
• People Management and Internal Communication: You will manage and coach the programme team, focusing on their professional development and capacity building. This includes overseeing capacity building for both expatriate and national staff on technical issues and program cycle management.
• External Relations and Representation: You will represent DRC with government authorities, donors, UN agencies, and other partners, ensuring adequate bilateral representation and participation in coordination meetings. You will be accountable for achieving DRC’s strategic goals and objectives, making significant decisions regarding the unit's purpose and functions, and ensuring compliance with DRC procedures.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must have a minimum of 5 to 7 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, leadership, and design in conflict or post-conflict countries. You should have at least 5 years of management experience, with a focus on managing a portfolio of programmes across multiple sectors, including a strong protection component. A good understanding of displacement issues and related international standards is essential, along with experience in emergency response programming and early recovery initiatives. Proven experience in programme quality, MEAL, and fundraising with key donors is required, as well as effective coordination with national governments and NGOs. Previous experience with DRC is an asset, and you must possess excellent communication and report writing skills.

Educational Background:
A relevant University Degree is required, with a preference for a Masters or post-graduate qualification in international relations, humanitarian programs management, political science, international development, or a similar field. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and program management.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 5 to 7 years at the international level in progressively responsible roles related to program management and leadership. This experience should include managing a diverse portfolio of programs in challenging environments, particularly in conflict or post-conflict settings. Candidates should demonstrate a strong track record of managing programs with substantial budgets and a focus on protection and humanitarian response.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. Candidates must be able to communicate effectively in both languages, as this role involves collaboration with diverse stakeholders and requires the ability to produce high-quality reports and documentation in both languages.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Caracas, Venezuela, with a contract length of 6 months or 1 year, renewable depending on funding and performance. The salary is classified under Band E1, and the contract can be national or international. The organization fully covers HCM insurance for its employees. DRC emphasizes core competencies such as achieving excellence, collaboration, taking initiative, effective communication, and demonstrating integrity. Applications must be submitted through the designated application page, and all applicants are required to provide a cover letter and an updated CV in English. The closing date for applications is December 31, 2025, at 11:59pm local time, with the start date anticipated for February 2, 2025.