Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
Solidarités International (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting their basic needs for food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. The organization operates in 26 countries and employs approximately 3,200 staff members, including expatriates, national staff, permanent staff at headquarters, and volunteers. SI's interventions are characterized by professionalism and a commitment to respecting cultural norms, ensuring that aid is delivered effectively and sensitively across diverse contexts.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director position is critical for overseeing and coordinating the humanitarian response in Darfur, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict that began in April 202

• The role involves assessing the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation, engaging in negotiations with local authorities, and designing a comprehensive response strategy for North Darfur. The Country Director will also be responsible for establishing the necessary human resources setup and representing the organization in negotiations with various stakeholders, including partners, UN agencies, and donors. The position requires a proactive approach to address the high levels of emergency needs and navigate the complex security landscape in the region. The Country Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of SI's operations in Darfur, ensuring that the organization can effectively respond to the urgent needs of affected populations while maintaining safety and security protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assess the security situation in Darfur and map local actors that influence its evolution.
• Engage in negotiations with local and national authorities to secure necessary authorizations for the development of humanitarian activities.
• Design a comprehensive response strategy for North Darfur, taking into account existing budgets and potential new proposals.
• Develop the necessary human resources setup and operational concepts to support the mission's objectives.
• Represent the Country Director in local negotiations with authorities, partners, UN agencies, and donors.
• Support the access strategy and assess new intervention areas for potential base openings.
• Address high levels of emergency needs while navigating access and security challenges.
• Coordinate with other humanitarian organizations and local partners to ensure effective area-based interventions.
• Monitor and evaluate the implementation of programs in WASH, Shelter, Food Security, and Livelihood sectors. 1
• Ensure compliance with SI's policies and procedures, particularly regarding safety and security protocols.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master's degree in a relevant field such as humanitarian response, international cooperation, development studies, or political sciences.
• A minimum of 3 to 4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3 to 4 years in a similar position.
• Proven experience in security and access management, rapid needs assessment, and strong negotiation skills.
• Demonstrated conflict sensitivity skills and the ability to work under pressure.
• Adaptability and strong initiative capacities with a solution-finding attitude are essential for success in this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a related field, which may include humanitarian response, international cooperation, development studies, or political sciences. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the socio-political dynamics in conflict-affected areas.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3 to 4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with a specific focus on roles that involve similar responsibilities. This experience should include working in high-risk environments and managing complex humanitarian operations, particularly in conflict zones.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international partners. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an advantage, as it facilitates communication with local stakeholders and communities. Knowledge of French would also be an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a short-term contract with a duration of 3 months, starting on May 1, 202

• The role is based in Darfur, which is classified as a high-risk environment with strict security protocols in place. The compensation package includes a gross monthly salary starting from EUR 3,080, which consists of a base salary and an annual leave allowance. Additionally, a monthly per diem of USD 750 is provided, along with coverage for accommodation costs and travel expenses. Expatriates will also benefit from a comprehensive insurance package that covers healthcare expenses, including medical, surgical, dental, and repatriation costs. Living conditions in Darfur include good standard guesthouses with solar panels and basic amenities, although social life is limited to interactions with other NGO staff.