Emergency Manager

Emergency Manager

Danish Refugee Council (DRC)

March 15, 2026March 20, 2026Ukraine
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency established to advocate for and promote durable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Since its inception, DRC has been dedicated to providing assistance and support to those in need, particularly in conflict-affected areas. The organization has been operational in Ukraine since 2014, employing over 800 staff members who work across various sectors including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. DRC's mission is to adapt its programs to the evolving context of the humanitarian crisis, ensuring that they meet the needs of the displaced populations effectively. The organization collaborates with civil society organizations (CSOs) and other stakeholders to implement its initiatives, demonstrating a commitment to partnership and community engagement. DRC operates in multiple countries, focusing on providing humanitarian aid and support to vulnerable populations worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Emergency Manager position at DRC is a critical role that involves overseeing and managing various emergency response activities in Ukraine, specifically in the regions of Kharkiv, Donetsk, Dnipropetrovska, and Zaporizhzhska oblasts. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating Unified Cash Transfers activities, winterization efforts, and managing relationships with implementing partners. This role requires a proactive approach to planning, monitoring, and executing project activities to ensure that they align with DRC's overall strategy and objectives. The Emergency Manager will play a key role in ensuring high-quality sectoral interventions, maintaining coherence across projects, and fostering collaboration with local authorities and other organizations. The position demands strong leadership skills, as the Emergency Manager will be expected to guide the emergency team, develop operational tools, and contribute to program development and strategy formulation. Additionally, the role involves accountability and reporting responsibilities, ensuring compliance with internal and external requirements, and fostering a culture of learning and improvement within the team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Emergency Manager will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to: coordinating and planning emergency team activities, monitoring project implementation, and ensuring the delivery of Unified Cash Transfers assistance and non-food item distributions. The role requires liaising with authorities and other organizations to ensure effective collaboration and resource sharing. The Emergency Manager will be responsible for maintaining high standards of quality in program delivery, overseeing budget management, and ensuring compliance with DRC and donor requirements. The position also involves developing project-related operational tools, providing inputs for donor reports, and leading knowledge sharing initiatives across teams. The Emergency Manager will be tasked with recruiting and managing project staff, providing feedback and support for performance management, and assessing training needs within the emergency team. Furthermore, the role includes supervising implementing partners, conducting monitoring visits, and initiating partnerships to expand the organization's portfolio.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for the Emergency Manager position, candidates must possess a robust set of skills and experiences, including expertise in project and program planning, delivery, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation. Candidates should have a proven track record in fundraising, budget management, and ensuring donor accountability and compliance. Experience working in complex emergencies or challenging security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security settings is essential, along with a calm and diplomatic demeanor. The ideal candidate will have experience in capacity building for staff and local partners, as well as the ability to produce timely project proposals and high-quality reports. Proficiency in English at a full professional level (C1) is mandatory, and candidates should be adept in using Microsoft Office and other relevant software.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Emergency Manager position should have a relevant educational background that supports their ability to perform the duties required. This typically includes a degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in project management, emergency response, or related areas may be advantageous and are often preferred by employers in this sector.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in project or program management, with at least 3 years of experience in people management. This experience should ideally be in a humanitarian context or related field, demonstrating the candidate's ability to navigate complex environments and manage diverse teams effectively. Experience in emergency response and familiarity with security management frameworks are also critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English (C1) is mandatory for this position. While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Ukrainian or Russian may be beneficial given the operational context in Ukraine. Candidates who possess additional language skills relevant to the region or humanitarian work may have an advantage in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The Emergency Manager position offers a contract length that includes a 3-month probation period, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available funding. The role is classified as managerial (Band F) and the duty station will be either Kharkiv or Dnipro, depending on the successful candidate's location. The start date for this position is as soon as possible, and salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for employees on national contracts. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a maximum length of four pages. Applications sent via email will not be considered, and the closing date for applications is set for 20th March 202
  • Candidates are encouraged to apply promptly, as interviews may be conducted on a rolling basis, and DRC reserves the right to select a candidate before the vacancy closes if a suitable candidate is identified.
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