Head of Programmes

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries around the world, focusing on various aspects of migration management and policy development, and aims to enhance the well-being of migrants and their communities.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programmes position is a critical role within IOM Rwanda, directly supervised by the Chief of Mission (CoM). This position involves close coordination with relevant departments in the IOM regional office in Nairobi. The Head of Programmes is responsible for ensuring coherence between IOM Rwanda's programmes and support services, overseeing the implementation of programs, reporting, and project development. The role requires the Head of Programmes to support Programme Managers across various migration thematic areas and represent the IOM Rwanda mission in the absence of the CoM. The successful candidate will ensure that IOM programmes are implemented effectively and efficiently, aligning with IOM Rwanda's overall strategy and meeting the expectations of donors and beneficiaries while collaborating with the Rwandan Government.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Represent the IOM Country Office (CO) in promoting activities with national authorities, diplomatic corps, governmental and private donors, NGOs, and other partners in Rwanda and the region.
• Participate in UN forums and related sub-working groups to align IOM Rwanda's work with national and international priorities.
• Oversee the formulation of country strategies and policies, developing new programmes to address emerging needs.
• Enhance inter-unit collaboration and coordination to maximize efficiencies within CO programming.
• Provide strategic recommendations to the CoM and senior management to improve overall performance.
• Coordinate IOM Rwanda's inputs into the UN Cooperation Framework and ensure compliance with donor regulations.
• Lead the development of donor relations and monitor funding priorities across migration management.
• Initiate new approaches to meet goals and contribute to building staff capacities.
• Manage IOM Rwanda's inputs into multi-agency strategies and operational frameworks. 1
• Deputize for the CoM and manage mission, staff, and financial responsibilities. 1
• Ensure IOM participation in UNCT inter-agency mechanisms and engage with UN agencies on relevant frameworks. 1
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, Law, International Relations, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with at least seven years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the same fields with nine years of relevant experience is acceptable. Candidates should have experience managing programmes at the international level, covering emergency, stabilization, and development areas. Previous experience as a Senior Programme Manager with a government or UN agency, or a regional or international organization is essential. Extensive experience in public relations and liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities is required, along with experience managing IOM offices and working in Africa being an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in Political or Social Sciences, Law, International Relations, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Accredited universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database. A University degree in the same fields is acceptable if accompanied by nine years of relevant professional experience.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience, specifically at the international level, in managing programmes that encompass emergency, stabilization, and development areas. Candidates should have prior experience as a Senior Programme Manager with a government or UN agency, or a regional or international organization. Extensive experience in public relations and liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities is crucial, as well as experience in managing IOM offices and working with governmental authorities and institutions. Work experience in Africa is considered an asset.

Languages:
All IOM staff members are required to be fluent in one of the IOM's official languages, which include English, French, and Spanish. For this specific position, fluency in English is mandatory, both oral and written. A working knowledge of French is advantageous and will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile. The selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations. Recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. Candidates who are nationals of the duty station’s country cannot be considered eligible. Appointment is subject to certification of medical fitness, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security clearances. The vacancies close at 23:59 local time Geneva, Switzerland on the respective closing date, and late applications will not be accepted. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. IOM does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.