Area Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization that has been operational in the Central African Republic (CAR) since 201

• The organization is dedicated to helping people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and instability. NRC employs a mix of international and national staff, currently consisting of 6 international staff and approximately 80 national staff. The organization operates across various strategic prefectures in CAR, including Mambere Kadei, Nana Mambere, Ouham Pendé, Nana Gribizi, Kemo, Ouham Fafa, Basse-Kotto, and Ombella Mpoko. NRC has established three field offices in Bouar, Kaga Bandoro, and Alindao, along with a country office located in Bangui, the capital of CAR. The mission of NRC is to provide high-quality humanitarian assistance and to defend the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. In 2026, NRC plans to focus its activities primarily in Nana Gribizi, reflecting its commitment to addressing the ongoing humanitarian needs in the region.

Job Overview:
The Area Manager position at NRC is crucial for ensuring the effective and efficient implementation of programs and projects within the designated geographical area of Kaga Bandoro, CAR. This role is part of the Country Management Group (CMG) and involves representing NRC to various authorities and stakeholders in all official contexts related to the organization's operations. The Area Manager is responsible for establishing a positive working environment that aligns with NRC's values and coordinating all area-level programs and operational activities. Regular field missions are required to monitor project implementation, and the Area Manager will lead the area grant management process, ensuring compliance with NRC policies and procedures. This position also involves collaboration with the Health, Safety, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security-manager" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Manager to maintain an updated Security Plan for the area, as well as reporting any violations of NRC’s personnel policies and Code of Conduct to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director. The Area Manager plays a key role in ensuring that NRC staff adhere to security guidelines and that all activities are well-documented, promoting the Do No Harm principle in all operations.

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

• Representing NRC to all relevant authorities and stakeholders in Kaga Bandoro, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
• Establishing and maintaining a positive working environment based on NRC values.
• Coordinating all area-level programs and operational activities to ensure alignment with NRC's strategic objectives.
• Conducting regular field missions to monitor and evaluate project implementation, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.
• Leading the area grant management process, including grants opening, review, and closing meetings, in collaboration with the Grants Manager and Country Director.
• Ensuring that support functions are managed according to NRC policies through effective oversight of field managers.
• Managing legally binding financial contracts and payments at the area level, adhering to the authorization table's threshold limits.
• Collaborating with the Health, Safety, and Security Manager to ensure the Security Plan for the area is regularly updated and communicated to staff.
• Reporting any violations of NRC’s personnel policies and Code of Conduct to the Country Director promptly. 1
• Ensuring that NRC staff comply with security rules and guidelines to maintain a safe working environment. 1
• Documenting all NRC activities at the area level to ensure transparency and accountability. 1
• Monitoring the context closely to develop approaches and activities that promote the Do No Harm principle in all operations.

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

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in a senior management level position within a humanitarian, recovery, or development context, including staff management responsibilities.
• Proven experience in program management, particularly in the field of education.
• Experience working in complex and volatile contexts, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position, showcasing successful program implementation and management.
• Strong leadership skills and a clear understanding of personal leadership style and profile.
• Fluency in both English and French, with strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Knowledge or experience in at least two of the following program areas is considered an advantage: cash-based interventions, market-based programming, food security and livelihoods, education (vocational training), protection, and peacebuilding.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Area Manager position typically includes a relevant degree in fields such as international relations, humanitarian studies, development studies, or a related discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response, project management, or leadership may be preferred. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of the principles and practices of humanitarian assistance and development, as well as the ability to apply this knowledge in a practical context.

Experience:
Candidates for the Area Manager position should possess a significant level of experience, ideally a minimum of 4 years in a senior management role within a humanitarian or development organization. This experience should include responsibilities related to staff management, program implementation, and operational oversight in challenging environments. Familiarity with the specific context of the Central African Republic or similar regions is highly desirable, as is experience in managing programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is mandatory for this position, as both languages are essential for effective communication with staff, stakeholders, and beneficiaries. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the Area Manager's ability to engage with diverse communities and partners.

Additional Notes:
The Area Manager position is based in Kaga Bandoro, Central African Republic, with a contract duration of 11 months, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The salary for this position is classified as grade 10 on NRC’s salary scale, and the organization offers a range of benefits to employees, including opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring equal opportunities for all employees regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization emphasizes a culture of respect, safety, and accountability, particularly in relation to safeguarding against exploitation and abuse.