Field Office Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. NRC has been operational since 1946 and has grown to become a leading organization in the humanitarian sector, with a presence in over 30 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to providing high-quality aid and defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC employs thousands of staff members globally and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce. The organization focuses on various sectors, including education, shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), and protection, ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are met effectively and efficiently. NRC's mission is to help millions of people in some of the world's most dangerous and difficult crises, and it emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and ethical practices in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Field Office Manager (FM) position is crucial for the operational leadership and coordination of NRC's activities at the field office level. The FM will be responsible for ensuring efficient, secure, and accountable management of both programs and support functions in the designated field location. This role requires a dedicated and experienced leader who can navigate complex operational challenges, including those arising from the scale of response, remoteness, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security environments, and access constraints. The FM will oversee daily operations, manage staff, coordinate programs, engage with external stakeholders, and represent NRC in various forums. This position is vital for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of NRC's response efforts in Eastern Chad, particularly in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis resulting from the influx of Sudanese refugees and Chadian returnees. The FM will work closely with the Area Office and report directly to the Area Manager, ensuring alignment with NRC's strategic objectives and operational guidelines.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Field Office Manager will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Team Management & Leadership: Line manage both program and support teams, setting clear performance objectives and monitoring their progress to ensure effective team functioning.
• Institutional Representation: Actively participate in the Country Management Group (CMG) and represent NRC in external meetings and forums to advocate for the organization's mission and objectives.
• Project Cycle Management: Collaborate with the Country Office on the implementation of activities, development of project proposals, and donor reporting to ensure compliance and effectiveness.
• Budget Management: Contribute to the development of the Field Office budget and ensure optimal and compliant use of financial resources, monitoring expenditures and financial reporting.
• Human Resources & Development: Oversee recruitment, induction, and capacity building for all Field Office staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and development.
• Emergency Response: Conduct needs assessments within the operational area and develop/implement emergency response plans as required, ensuring timely and effective interventions.
• Safety & Duty of Care: Promote health, safety, and well-being standards in close coordination with Humanitarian Access and Safety (HAS) and HR teams, ensuring a safe working environment for all staff.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Field Office Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of three (3) years of experience as a Project Manager or Area Manager in a humanitarian context, demonstrating a strong understanding of humanitarian principles and practices.
• Technical expertise in the implementation of WASH projects in emergency settings, with a proven track record of successful project delivery.
• Previous experience working in complex and volatile contexts, showcasing the ability to adapt and respond to rapidly changing situations.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position, highlighting achievements and contributions to previous roles.
• Self-awareness of own leadership competencies and profile, with a commitment to continuous personal and professional development.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically including a degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in project management, emergency response, or WASH-related disciplines are highly desirable and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of three years in a similar role within a humanitarian context. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in managing teams, overseeing project implementation, and navigating complex operational environments. Experience in emergency response and the ability to launch new country programs or area offices will be considered a strong asset.

Languages:
Fluency in French, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position, as it is essential for effective communication with local stakeholders and team members. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and partners in the region.

Additional Notes:
The Field Office Manager position is based in Iriba, Chad, and is offered as a 6-month contract. The salary is classified as grade 8 on NRC's salary scale, which reflects the level of responsibility and expertise required for the role. NRC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce. The organization encourages innovative thinking and provides employees with opportunities to take initiative and contribute to the organization's mission. Candidates are advised to submit their applications through the designated NRC application profile, as applications sent via email will not be accepted. For any inquiries regarding the application process, candidates can reach out to the provided recruitment email.