Support Services Team Leader

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for their rights, and works to strengthen their opportunities for a better future. The organization has grown significantly over the years, employing more than 7,000 staff and engaging around 8,000 volunteers. DRC operates in conflict-affected areas, along displacement routes, and in host countries, striving for responsible and sustainable solutions for displaced individuals. DRC Syria has been active since 2008, initially addressing the Iraqi refugee crisis and later expanding its efforts to respond to the ongoing Syria crisis from 2011 onwards. The organization focuses on a comprehensive approach to displacement, addressing immediate humanitarian needs while supporting community recovery and durable solutions. DRC's work encompasses various sectors, including Economic Recovery and Resilience, Protection, WASH, Shelter and Infrastructure, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. DRC also engages in cross-border responses to the Syria crisis, collaborating with neighboring countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Türkiye, and Iraq to provide regional support and advocacy for displaced populations.

Job Overview:
The Support Services Team Leader will play a crucial role in providing administrative, HR, finance, logistics, procurement, and office management support to project field teams in the South area office. This position involves direct management of support teams based in the South Area Office, which includes locations such as Damascus, Rural Damascus, and Daraa. The Team Leader will act as a key liaison between the South support team and the Country Office support teams, ensuring that all support systems are operational and aligned with DRC's Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The role requires a proactive approach to identifying areas for improvement in support functions and implementing strategies to enhance efficiency. The Team Leader will also coordinate closely with program teams to understand their needs and ensure that support services are effectively aligned with programmatic goals. This position is essential for maintaining the functionality of the Rural Damascus office and Community Centers in the South, ensuring that all operations run smoothly and efficiently.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Support Services Team Leader will be responsible for the overall day-to-day management of the Rural Damascus office and the Community Centers in the South. Key responsibilities include coordinating with the Area Manager to ensure that support systems in finance, logistics, procurement, fleet management, HR, and administration are established and functional according to DRC SOPs. The Team Leader will oversee monthly reporting against key performance indicators for support functions and continuously seek ways to improve systems for increased efficiency. They will facilitate communication and coordination among support departments, organize meetings, and engage in joint planning activities. The Team Leader will also work closely with program teams to understand their needs and ensure that support teams are equipped to provide quality programming. Additionally, the role involves managing the support budget lines, participating in senior-level staff meetings, and supporting the Area Manager during audits and reporting processes. The Team Leader will serve as the primary contact for external stakeholders, including local communities and suppliers, and will oversee procurement and logistics activities to ensure compliance with DRC guidelines. Furthermore, the Team Leader will drive the recruitment process, oversee HR procedures, and ensure that staff induction and orientation are conducted effectively. They will also manage the Support Service Team, conducting performance reviews and providing coaching and mentoring to team members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of four years of experience in support services functions, including supply chain, fleet, finance, and HR, preferably within an international NGO or a high-profile private company. A minimum of two years of experience in a team leader or managerial role is required, with a preference for candidates who have experience in the humanitarian sector. A strong understanding of humanitarian principles is essential, and experience in supply chain and procurement is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills, proficiency in Microsoft applications, and the ability to work independently while showing initiative. A positive attitude and strong teamwork skills are also necessary, along with the ability to multitask and maintain organizational skills.

Educational Background:
A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in a related discipline, such as business management, finance, or public administration, is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of support services within a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience in support services functions, with at least two years in a leadership or managerial capacity. Candidates should have experience working in the humanitarian sector, with a strong understanding of humanitarian principles and practices. Experience managing a team is mandatory, and candidates should demonstrate a proven track record of effective team leadership and capacity building.

Languages:
Fluency in both spoken and written Arabic and English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is until 30 June 2026, with the possibility of renewal based on funding and performance. The position is classified at the management level (G) and is based in Rural Damascus. The expected start date is as soon as possible. Interested candidates are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language as the vacancy note. Applications that consist of CVs only will not be considered. The application deadline is set for 25 January 202

• For further information about the Danish Refugee Council, candidates are encouraged to visit the organization's website.