Area Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of individuals each year. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. NRC's mission is to promote human dignity and provide effective aid in some of the world's most challenging environments, making it a vital player in the humanitarian sector.

Job Overview:
The Area Manager position is critical for ensuring the effective implementation of programs and projects within a designated geographical area. The role involves high-quality, cost-effective, and timely execution of humanitarian initiatives, aligning with the organization's strategies and objectives. The Area Manager will be a key member of the Country Management Group (CMG), contributing area-specific insights to the overall country strategy and action plans. This position requires a proactive approach to project management, including budget oversight, compliance with contractual obligations, and the establishment of partnerships at the area level. The Area Manager will also be responsible for assessing needs, developing emergency response plans, and ensuring the safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security of staff within the area. This role is essential for promoting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and returnees, ensuring that their needs are met in accordance with NRC's advocacy strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Area Manager will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Serving as a member of the Country Management Group (CMG) and providing area-specific input on country strategies and plans of action.
• Overseeing the implementation of projects, ensuring compliance with contractual commitments regarding quality, timeliness, and resource utilization.
• Managing project budgets effectively and ensuring alignment with NRC's strategies.
• Conducting needs assessments and developing emergency response plans for in-kind assistance and cash-based interventions.
• Organizing grants opening and closure meetings at the area level, ensuring timely operationalization of projects with detailed work plans.
• Leading the partnerships approach at the area level, fostering relationships with key stakeholders, including local and regional authorities.
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies and procedures, and providing line management and capacity building for all staff in the area.
• Promoting the rights of IDPs and returnees in line with the advocacy strategy.
• Representing NRC at the area level and networking with international and national stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 3 years of experience in country or area management or general managerial positions within humanitarian, recovery, or complex contexts. Leadership experience is essential, particularly in managing people performance and development, as well as optimizing resource management. Familiarity with the Ukrainian context and experience with scale-up processes are highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to humanitarian principles and the ability to work effectively in challenging environments.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required for this position, typically including a degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, development studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, depending on the specific requirements of the role and the organization.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience in humanitarian or recovery contexts, with a focus on country or area management. Candidates should have demonstrated leadership capabilities and a track record of managing teams and resources effectively. Experience working in Ukraine and understanding the local context is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The duty station for this position is Kyiv, Ukraine, with a contract duration of 24 months, subject to possible extension. The role may require travel of up to 30%. The salary and benefits are classified as Grade 10 on NRC's grading structure. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, promoting diversity without distinction to age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization encourages innovative thinking and empowers employees at all levels to take initiative and contribute to the mission.