Area Operations Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is dedicated to providing humanitarian assistance and support to vulnerable populations, particularly in conflict-affected areas. It operates in multiple countries, focusing on the rights and needs of displaced individuals and communities. The organization emphasizes the importance of compliance with international standards and local laws, ensuring that its operations are effective and respectful of the communities it serves. It has a strong commitment to advocacy and capacity building, aiming to empower local partners and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Area Operations Manager in Panama is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the designated Area Office, ensuring that program implementation is carried out effectively and in compliance with organizational standards. This role involves coordinating various support services to achieve key program objectives while addressing operational challenges. The manager will work closely with the Country Management Group and the program unit to align area-specific strategies with the overall country strategy. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and resource management, ensuring that all activities are conducted within budgetary constraints and in accordance with donor requirements. The Area Operations Manager will also play a crucial role in capacity building for staff and partners, promoting health, safety, and well-being standards within the organization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Area Operations Manager include:

• Leading the day-to-day operations of the Area Office, ensuring high-quality support services and program implementation.
• Managing directly reporting staff, including performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, and staff development.
• Representing the area of operations in the Country Management Group and chairing the Area Management Group.
• Collaborating with the program unit to integrate area-specific needs into the country strategy and Plan of Action.
• Supporting the development of project proposals, budgets, and donor reports, ensuring compliance with contractual commitments.
• Conducting needs assessments and implementing emergency response activities as necessary.
• Ensuring optimal resource utilization within allocated budgets and compliance with donor and organizational policies.
• Coordinating capacity building initiatives for staff and partners.
• Advocating for the rights of Internally Displaced Persons and contributing to local advocacy initiatives. 1
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies and contextualized procedures. 1
• Organizing grants opening and closure meetings and representing the organization externally. 1
• Overseeing the ethical termination of the NRC mission in Panama, ensuring compliance with local regulations and NRC policies. 1
• Managing the confidential handover of asylum and legal assistance caseloads, ensuring data protection protocols are followed. 1
• Performing any other relevant tasks as delegated by the line manager.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Area Operations Manager position include:

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a senior project and team management role, preferably in a humanitarian or recovery context.
• A Bachelor’s degree in Political Sciences, Social Studies, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Proven experience working in volatile and insecure environments.
• Strong fluency in both Spanish and English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in managing cash-based interventions and market-based programs.
• Knowledge of the context in Panama and the challenges faced by displaced populations.
• Experience in liaising with various stakeholders, including government entities, donors, and NGOs.
• A valid driving license is also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as Political Sciences, Social Studies, Business Administration, or similar disciplines. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian operations and the socio-political context in which the organization operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3 years of experience in a senior project and team management role, ideally within a humanitarian or recovery context. This experience should include managing teams, overseeing project implementation, and navigating complex operational environments. Familiarity with the specific challenges of working in Panama or similar contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal forms. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if it enhances communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and involves significant responsibilities related to the management of humanitarian operations in Panama. The Area Operations Manager will be expected to work closely with various teams and stakeholders, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and local regulations. The role may involve travel within the region and requires a commitment to the ethical and responsible management of resources and personnel. The contract duration is linked to the operational timeline, with a specific focus on the planned closure of the NRC mission in Panama by December 31, 2026.