INGO-F Deputy Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization that operates in over 40 countries, driven by the belief that a better world is possible. The organization partners with communities to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. Established with a mission to alleviate suffering and promote sustainable development, Mercy Corps has a significant presence in disaster-stricken areas, providing humanitarian assistance and development programs. The organization is committed to accountability and ethical practices, ensuring that all individuals involved in their programs are treated with respect and dignity.

Job Overview:
The INGO-F director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director position is crucial in addressing the significant challenges faced by INGOs operating in Sudan, particularly in terms of access to vulnerable populations in need of humanitarian assistance. The role involves collating information and providing analysis and advice to members regarding access impediments, including bureaucratic and administrative challenges. The Deputy Director will work closely with area coordination leads and the INGO-F Director to facilitate and coordinate collective humanitarian access negotiations and initiatives. This position also entails co-chairing the Humanitarian Access Working Group (HAWG) alongside OCHA and representing the INGO forum in various discussions and meetings. The Deputy Director will play a vital role in ensuring that access-related advocacy messages are evidence-based and aligned with the overall strategy of the Forum.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will be responsible for coordinating field-level access meetings among INGO forum members, collaborating with area coordinators and UN colleagues. They will represent the INGO forum in external conversations and maintain close collaboration with OCHA and other data analysis units. The role includes expanding the Forum's network of relevant contacts in Sudan, contributing access trends and analysis to the Forum's monthly bulletin, and providing operational response advice to members regarding access concerns. The Deputy Director will also produce timely reports on access trends, assist with special information requests, and ensure attention to special protection issues that arise in members' areas of operations. Additionally, they will manage project budgets, represent the Forum in key coordination groups, and oversee consultancies related to access negotiations and research.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree in a relevant field or equivalent experience, along with a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience working with NGOs, the UN system, or other humanitarian/development actors. They should have experience in complex humanitarian or fragile contexts, a strong understanding of humanitarian principles and international law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">humanitarian law, and proven experience in managing humanitarian access analysis and negotiation. The ideal candidate will have experience representing organizations in humanitarian coordination platforms, strong data analysis skills, and the ability to manage a diverse workload in a complex environment. Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory, while knowledge of Arabic and French is desirable.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally be complemented by practical experience in humanitarian or development work, particularly in contexts similar to Sudan.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly with NGOs or UN agencies. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in complex humanitarian environments and should demonstrate a strong understanding of the operational challenges faced by INGOs in such contexts. Experience in managing humanitarian access negotiations and strategy work is essential, as is familiarity with current humanitarian trends and issues.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this role, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. While not required, working knowledge of Arabic and French is considered a plus, as it may facilitate communication with local partners and stakeholders in Sudan and the surrounding regions.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Port Sudan and may require frequent travel to other regions, including Darfur and Nairobi, with up to 40% travel to support country programs. The role may involve travel to insecure locations where freedom of movement is limited. Housing for this position is provided in individual accommodations, and staff will have access to good medical services. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.