Head of Support Service

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, established to provide assistance to refugees, asylum seekers, internally displaced persons, returnees, and migrants. DRC operates in 34 countries and has been active in Venezuela since 2019, focusing on the urgent needs of vulnerable communities and those involved in mixed migration movements. The organization is committed to a rights-based approach and aims to scale up its response through integrated programming.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Service position is crucial for ensuring compliance with DRC procedures and guidelines within Venezuela. This role is focused on developing country strategies that translate into actionable plans and daily tasks. The Head of Support Service will provide technical guidance to country operations and oversee activities related to Finance, Human Resources, Logistics, and Procurement. The position requires a highly qualified individual who can support DRC’s emergency response and durable solutions in the region, ensuring that operational and strategic objectives are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Support Service will lead and manage support managers, focusing on people planning, performance, well-being, and development. Responsibilities include managing current operations program support, establishing high-performing support teams, and ensuring compliance with DRC’s support function guidelines. The role also involves supporting the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and senior management in liaising with donors and authorities, overseeing operational support units, conducting audits, and implementing corrective actions. The Head of Support Service will develop a risk management plan, ensure accurate administrative and legal systems, and build the capacity of operational support staff through training and mentoring. Additionally, the role requires ensuring the proper use of the DRC Dynamics ERP system and actively participating in the development of wellbeing and safety processes within the organization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 7 years of experience in a relevant field, with a minimum of 4 years in people management. Experience in a similar role within an international NGO is essential, along with proven leadership skills and operational management capabilities, particularly in conflict areas. Candidates should have significant experience in financial, information, and systems management, as well as procurement and tender processes. Understanding of institutional fundraising and the cultural context of the countries in which DRC operates is also required. Familiarity with ERP systems, including supply chain, finance, and HR systems, is necessary.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in political science, international development, economics, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary theoretical foundation and analytical skills needed to navigate the complexities of humanitarian work and support services.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience, specifically at least 7 years in relevant fields, with a strong emphasis on people management and operational leadership. Experience in international NGOs, particularly in challenging environments, is crucial for understanding the dynamics of humanitarian assistance and the operational challenges faced in the field.

Languages:
Fluency in Spanish and English is essential for this role, as effective communication in both languages is necessary for collaboration with local teams, stakeholders, and international partners. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Caracas, Venezuela, with a contract length of 6 months or 1 year, renewable based on funding and performance. The salary is categorized under Band E1, and the contract can be national or international. The organization provides comprehensive health insurance coverage. DRC emphasizes core competencies such as achieving excellence, collaboration, initiative, effective communication, and integrity. Applications must be submitted through the designated page, including a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a closing date for applications set for March 13, 2026, at 11:59pm local time. The start date for the position is April 1, 2026.