INGO-F Deputy Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to respond to disasters and hardships, Mercy Corps operates in more than 40 countries worldwide, partnering with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. The organization is committed to addressing the most pressing humanitarian challenges and has a significant presence in regions facing crises, including Sudan, where it plays a crucial role in coordinating humanitarian efforts through the Sudan INGO Forum.

Job Overview:
The INGO-F director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director position is critical in addressing the severe humanitarian crisis in Sudan, characterized by widespread displacement and famine. The role involves collating information and providing analysis and advice to members regarding access impediments, including bureaucratic challenges. The Deputy Director will focus on facilitating and coordinating collective humanitarian access negotiations and initiatives, working closely with the Forum Director and area coordination leads. This position is essential for ensuring that humanitarian efforts are effectively coordinated and that urgent needs are met in a highly dynamic and challenging environment.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will coordinate field-level access meetings among INGO forum members, represent the forum in various discussions, and collaborate with OCHA and other stakeholders. Responsibilities include maintaining communication with members, providing analysis on access trends, producing reports, and ensuring that access-related advocacy messages are evidence-based. The role also involves managing relationships with local authorities, maintaining up-to-date contact lists, and ensuring smooth information sharing. The Deputy Director will supervise Area Coordinators and may be required to represent the Forum in key coordination groups and external meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, along with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in NGOs, the UN system, or other humanitarian/development actors. A strong understanding of humanitarian principles, international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, and coordination mechanisms is essential. Proven experience in managing humanitarian access analysis and negotiation, as well as strong data analysis skills, are required. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage a diverse workload and prioritize tasks effectively in a complex environment.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in a relevant field is required, which may include international relations, humanitarian studies, or a related discipline. Equivalent experience in a similar role may also be considered acceptable in lieu of formal education.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant experience working with NGOs, the UN system, or other humanitarian/development organizations. Candidates should have experience in complex humanitarian contexts and a strong understanding of humanitarian operations and coordination mechanisms. Previous experience in humanitarian access analysis and negotiation is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory. Knowledge of Arabic and French is considered a plus and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Port Sudan, with frequent travel to Darfur and Nairobi, requiring up to 40% travel to support country programs. The role may involve travel to insecure locations with limited amenities. Housing is provided in individual accommodations with access to good medical services. Mercy Corps emphasizes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.