Cash and Markets Programme Development Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization that has been operational in Cameroon since 2017, focusing on supporting individuals who have been forcibly displaced from their homes. NRC's mission is to protect displaced communities and assist them in rebuilding their lives. The organization operates in various crisis-affected regions across Cameroon, including the Far North, Northwest, Southwest, East, and Adamawa. NRC's work is centered around four primary areas: Information Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Water, Hygiene and Sanitation (WASH), Shelter and Settlement, and Education. Their programs are designed to address urgent needs while also facilitating long-term recovery. NRC promotes an integrated approach across its offices, aiming to provide coordinated support that helps communities transition from emergency situations to stability. Currently, NRC Cameroon is exploring the use of cash and e-voucher assistance to enhance the flexibility and dignity of support provided to affected populations, with plans to expand this approach in 202

• The organization is committed to strengthening local actors and systems to take on greater leadership in cash and market-based programming, which is crucial for their ongoing operations and future strategies.

Job Overview:
The Cash and Markets Programme Development Manager will be responsible for leading technical work on market-based approaches and Cash and Voucher Assistance (CVA). This role involves guiding projects from inception to completion, ensuring that they align with NRC's strategic objectives. The manager will work across various sectors and teams, connecting programmatic and support functions, conducting market and feasibility assessments, and enhancing tools and systems for improved efficiency, monitoring, risk management, and reporting. The position requires close collaboration with multiple departments, including MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning), Area Managers, Logistics, Core Competence Specialists, and Project Managers, while receiving technical support from NRC’s Global Cash and Market Adviser. The role is pivotal in driving the integration of cash and market systems into NRC's programming, ensuring that interventions are effective and responsive to the needs of affected populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cash and Markets Programme Development Manager will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Strategy and Technical Leadership: Contributing to the development of cash and market systems inputs for the Country Strategy and Response Plans, ensuring that innovative technologies are incorporated. Strengthening NRC's operational readiness to implement cash and market systems interventions effectively, including the creation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and tools for intervention design.
• Programme Implementation and Technical Support: Leading the technical implementation of Cash and Market Assistance with local partners, providing guidance to field teams, and adapting SOPs as necessary. Collaborating with local partners and NRC field teams to identify suitable cash modalities and transfer mechanisms in accordance with donor requirements and contextual realities.
• Capacity Building and Knowledge Management: Developing and executing a capacity building plan tailored to the needs of partners and NRC staff in cash and voucher assistance and market systems approaches. Working with MEAL to document lessons learned and success stories from market-based programs.
• Market Analysis and Evidence Generation: Supporting program teams in selecting appropriate market analysis methodologies and coordinating market analysis efforts. Assisting in designing evidence-based programs using suitable technologies and methodologies.
• Reporting, Risk Management, and Compliance: Managing the compilation of activity and periodic reports, maintaining updated risk management plans, and establishing risk monitoring systems.
• Representation and Coordination: Engaging in external platforms such as the Cash Working Group (CWG) to influence decisions and foster effective relationships.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Development Studies, Business Studies, Economics, or a related field. A minimum of 4 years of field experience in cash and market-based programming is required, with at least 2 years in a management role. Candidates should have a strong understanding of the specific demands of CVA and market-based programming in humanitarian response settings, particularly in Cameroon. Experience in multi-sector emergency response, including Multi-Purpose Cash Assistance (MPCA) and Rapid Response Mechanism (RRM), is essential. Proven experience in building partnerships with the private sector and working with local partners is also required. Familiarity with digital payment platforms and CVA delivery tools, as well as experience in complex and volatile contexts, is necessary. Strong coordination skills and fluency in both English and French (spoken and written) are mandatory.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, Development Studies, Business Studies, Economics, or another relevant field. This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of cash and market-based programming within humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The position requires at least 4 years of field experience in cash and market-based programming, with a focus on market systems. Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years in a management role, demonstrating their ability to lead teams and projects effectively. Experience with cash and market-based programming in humanitarian settings, particularly in Cameroon or similar contexts, is highly valued. Additionally, candidates should have robust experience with market analysis and inter-agency coordination in the development and humanitarian fields.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French, both spoken and written, is required for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the diverse teams and stakeholders involved in NRC's operations.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Yaoundé, Cameroon, and is offered as a 12-month national contract with the possibility of extension. The salary is classified as grade 9 on NRC’s Cameroon National salary scale. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, encouraging applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a supportive culture, professional growth, and innovative teamwork, providing employees with opportunities to contribute ideas and take initiative. Additionally, NRC has a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation, abuse, and harassment, ensuring a safe environment for all employees.