Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a non-governmental, humanitarian organization that has been operational for 60 years, dedicated to creating safer and more dignified lives for refugees and internally displaced people. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization focuses on advocating for the rights of displaced populations and providing assistance in various sectors, including Shelter & Settlements, Education, Livelihoods & security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, Information Counselling & Legal Assistance (ICLA), Water, Sanitation & Hygiene (WASH), and Camp Management. NRC registered in Mozambique in mid-May 2021 and commenced operations in September 2021, establishing a coordination office in Pemba and a field office in Mueda, where the main interventions are taking place. The organization is actively responding to the humanitarian crisis in Cabo Delgado, which has seen a significant increase in internally displaced persons (IDPs) due to ongoing conflict since 2017, with urgent needs for food, shelter, health, and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">psychosocial support.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme position is pivotal in assuming overall responsibility for program development and strategic vision within Mozambique. This role promotes a culture of learning and cost-consciousness while ensuring effective communication between various functions and area offices. The Head of Programme will develop and maintain strong partnerships, identify advocacy priorities relevant to the program, and manage line responsibilities for the Country Programme Unit. This includes overseeing the development of Core Competency strategies aligned with regional and global priorities, creating integrated and needs-based programs, and ensuring compliance with donor standards. The position also involves managing grants, budget allocations, and reporting to donors, while promoting the rights of IDPs and returnees in line with the advocacy strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programme will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Line management of the Country Programme Unit and technical supervision of Core Competency Programme Development Managers.
• Membership in the Country Management Group (CMG) to ensure alignment with organizational goals.
• Development of Core Competency strategies that align with regional and global priorities.
• Creation of integrated and needs-based programs, including cash-based interventions and market-based programs.
• Identification of funding opportunities and development of funding strategies and forecasts.
• Management of grants, Budget Programme Overview (BPO) allocations, and reporting to donors, ensuring compliance with donor standards.
• Promotion of the rights of IDPs and returnees in accordance with the advocacy strategy.
• Strengthening accountability to beneficiaries through improved M&E systems and establishing beneficiary feedback mechanisms.
• Facilitating integrated program analysis and response analysis, including cross-cutting issues such as protection and safe programming. 1
• Overseeing Project Cycle Management (PCM) and providing field support missions. 1
• Liaising with Area Managers to create synergies and ensure effective communication between the Country Office and Area Offices. 1
• Providing contextual program analysis for input into the country strategy and reports. 1
• Managing performance and staff development within the Programme department. 1
• Ensuring current donor relations are well managed and exploring potential new donor opportunities. 1
• Carrying out other duties as assigned by the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires several professional competencies, including:

• A minimum of 8 years’ experience in a senior management role within a humanitarian context.
• Experience working in complex and volatile environments.
• Expertise in NRC Core competencies.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position.
• Strong communication, interpersonal, representation, and negotiation skills.
• Fluency in English, both written and verbal, with knowledge of Portuguese being advantageous.
• Knowledge of the context in Mozambique is beneficial.
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work within diverse cultural contexts.
• Proven ability to work in hardship duty stations and stressful environments. 1
• Experience in resource mobilization, particularly with EU donors, American donors, and UN agencies. 1
• Skills in empowering and building trust within communities.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a relevant educational background, typically including a degree in international development, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in program management, humanitarian response, or related areas would be advantageous and may be preferred by the organization.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience, specifically a minimum of 8 years in senior management roles within humanitarian contexts. This experience should include working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating the ability to navigate challenges effectively and lead teams in high-pressure situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal communication. Knowledge of Portuguese is considered an asset, as it may facilitate better communication within the local context and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Pemba, Mozambique, with a contract duration of 12 months, which is renewable based on performance and funding availability. The role requires travel of at least 40% of the time. The salary is classified as grade 10 on NRC’s International salary scale. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, promoting diversity without discrimination based on age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization encourages innovative thinking and responsibility among employees at all levels, fostering a supportive work culture.