Country Protection Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization that assists refugees and displaced persons globally. Established to provide emergency aid, advocate for the rights of displaced individuals, and facilitate their access to better futures, DRC operates in conflict zones, along displacement routes, and in host countries. Since its inception, DRC has expanded its operations to various regions, including the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), where it has been active since 2009, initially in Ituri Province and later in North Kivu. The organization collaborates with local communities to identify sustainable solutions and promote the successful integration of refugees, while also supporting their potential return home. DRC's mission is to ensure that displaced individuals receive the necessary support and protection they need to rebuild their lives.

Job Overview:
The Country Protection Manager is a pivotal role within the DRC, serving as a technical leader responsible for ensuring high-quality protection programming and effective management across the protection sector. This position is managed by the Head of Programs and is part of a Protection management unit that collaborates with Area Offices and Project Teams to establish systems and approaches for protection activities. The role involves overseeing protection sector projects and managing protection staff, coordinating various sub-sectors such as Legal Aid, Community-Based Protection, Gender-Based Violence prevention and response, Child Protection, Protection Information Management, and Mental Health and Psycho-Social Support. The Country Protection Manager is tasked with leading the protection project cycle, ensuring adherence to DRC policies and standards, and maintaining internal and external coordination. Additionally, this role contributes to the localization strategy, transitioning towards a partner-implemented approach that empowers local civil society to deliver high-quality humanitarian protection programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Protection Manager's duties encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including leading protection analysis efforts and developing the country-level protection strategy. The manager is technically responsible for the overall protection portfolio and oversees the implementation of all protection projects, ensuring alignment with agreed strategies and donor requirements. This includes budget management, monitoring, and supporting partner focal points in budgeting and compliance. The manager is also responsible for line managing protection staff, overseeing recruitment and performance appraisals, and promoting professional development. Furthermore, the manager leads the design and finalization of protection sector interventions, compiles project-related reports, and ensures that Age, Gender, and Diversity (AGD) and Accountability to Affected Populations (AAP) are mainstreamed into all projects. Coordination and representation are also key aspects of the role, as the manager represents DRC in protection sector coordination forums and engages with various stakeholders, including government and civil society.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a University Bachelor degree in a relevant field such as social work or law, along with proven experience of at least 5 years in the protection sector and management of protection programs. A strong commitment to supporting local civil society is essential, as is expert knowledge of International Refugee Law, International Human Rights Law, and International Humanitarian Law. Candidates should have a solid understanding of global protection sector standards and experience in designing, implementing, and evaluating protection interventions across multiple components of DRC’s Protection sector. Strong communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills are required, along with the ability to think strategically and analyze complex humanitarian situations. Experience in project development, advocacy, and policy development is also necessary, as well as cultural sensitivity and adaptability.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a University Bachelor degree, preferably in a field directly relevant to humanitarian protection. Additional certifications or licenses related to social work, law, or humanitarian assistance may be beneficial. Candidates should demonstrate a combination of relevant expertise and experience that aligns with the responsibilities of the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of proven experience working in the protection sector, specifically in the management of protection programs. Candidates should have experience working with local partners in the protection sphere and a strong commitment to supporting local civil society. Previous experience in DR Congo is considered an advantage, as is experience in technical management of teams and providing guidance and learning activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, while proficiency in Swahili is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in both languages, as effective communication is crucial for collaboration and representation in various forums and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 6 months, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and funding availability. The position is classified under Band F/Manager according to the Danish Refugee Council's terms of employment. The duty station for this role is Goma, and the reporting line is to the Head of Programs. Interested candidates are required to submit a complete application file, including a CV, cover letter, academic qualifications, and other relevant documents, through the DRC's online application form by midnight on December 19, 2025.