WPE Program Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a large workforce dedicated to delivering impactful humanitarian assistance. The organization is recognized for its commitment to providing lasting solutions and support to millions of people worldwide, emphasizing the importance of dignity and hope in the recovery process.

Job Overview:
The WPE Program Coordinator is responsible for providing strategic leadership, technical oversight, and quality assurance for the IRC’s Women’s Protection & Empowerment (WPE) programming in Darfur. This role is crucial in ensuring that gender-based violence (GBV) prevention and response interventions are survivor-centered, technically sound, and tailored to the challenging emergency context of Darfur. The coordinator will maintain a regular field presence, mentor and supervise WPE teams, lead program development and advocacy efforts, and guide the WPE program through ongoing emergency responses while preparing for future recovery-oriented programming. The position requires a proactive approach to addressing the complex humanitarian needs of women and girls in the region, ensuring that they have access to safe and confidential services.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The WPE Coordinator will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including:

• Strategic Leadership & Technical Oversight: Develop a strategic vision for the WPE program in Darfur, ensuring that all interventions are context-appropriate and prioritized effectively. Guarantee the technical quality of IRC WPE programming, ensuring that survivors have timely and confidential access to GBV case management and referral services. Lead the development of a Darfur-specific WPE strategy, incorporating feedback from field teams and stakeholders.
• Information Management & Data Protection: Implement ethical and safe data collection and management systems, ensuring that data is utilized for analysis and planning without compromising survivor confidentiality.
• Coordination & Representation: Build and maintain relationships with donors, government authorities, UN agencies, and NGOs, representing IRC in relevant coordination forums. Advocate for high-quality VAWG response services in Darfur.
• Staff Supervision & Development: Supervise the WPE Program Sr. Manager, promote teamwork, and support staff recruitment and capacity building.
• Grant Planning, Implementation & Compliance: Ensure effective implementation of WPE grants, adhering to work plans and compliance requirements.
• Grant Monitoring & Reporting: Oversee monitoring systems and ensure timely reporting on activities and outcomes.
• Partner Management: Manage relationships with implementing partners and support their capacity strengthening.
• Safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security & Duty of Care: Monitor safety risks affecting WPE teams and ensure that security concerns are addressed promptly.
• Other Duties: Perform additional tasks as assigned to support IRC programming.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in public health, social sciences, gender studies, international development, or a related field. They should have at least 5 years of overseas experience, including substantial management experience in VAWG/GBV programming, and at least 2 years of direct service provision for survivors of sexual and domestic violence. Previous experience in supervising and managing a multi-disciplinary team in a cross-cultural setting is essential, along with experience in emergency preparedness and response. Candidates should demonstrate capacity building and mentoring experience, grant management skills, and proficiency in computer programs such as MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Personal qualities such as being a team player, flexible, and able to handle pressure are also important.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as public health, social sciences, gender studies, or international development is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of gender-based violence and the necessary interventions to support survivors effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of overseas experience, with a strong emphasis on management experience in VAWG/GBV programming. Candidates should have at least 2 years of experience in direct service provision for survivors of sexual and domestic violence, showcasing their ability to handle sensitive situations and provide appropriate support. Experience in emergency preparedness and response is also essential, as the role involves working in a highly complex humanitarian context.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is strongly preferred for this position. Proficiency in these languages is critical for effective communication with team members, stakeholders, and the communities served, ensuring that the program's objectives are met and that survivors receive the necessary support.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Darfur, Sudan, and involves full-time commitment. The role requires a seniority level that includes strategic leadership and oversight of program implementation. The IRC is committed to recruiting internationally, and candidates should be prepared for the challenges of working in a complex humanitarian environment. Compensation and benefits will be discussed during the recruitment process, and the organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding and duty of care principles in all its activities.