Head of Programmes Kenya

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of individuals each year. The organization is committed to defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. NRC is recognized for its high-quality aid and innovative approaches to humanitarian challenges, fostering a culture of responsibility and professional growth among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programmes position at NRC is a critical leadership role responsible for overseeing the development and strategic vision of programs in Kenya. This role requires a dynamic and experienced individual who can promote a culture of learning and cost-consciousness within the organization. The Head of Programmes will ensure effective communication between various functions, partners, and area offices, contributing to the overall success of NRC's mission in the country. The position involves line management of Core Competence Specialists and participation in the Country Management Group (CMG), ensuring compliance with NRC policies and providing input to the Country Strategy and Plan of Action. The successful candidate will be tasked with developing holistic and needs-based programs, including cash-based interventions, and identifying funding opportunities to support these initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programmes include:

• Line management of Core Competence Specialists to ensure effective program delivery.
• Active participation in the Country Management Group (CMG) to align program strategies with organizational goals.
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies, guidance, and procedures in all program activities.
• Providing programmatic input to the Country Strategy and Plan of Action to enhance program effectiveness.
• Developing Core Competency strategies that align with regional and global priorities.
• Creating holistic and needs-based programs, including cash-based and market-based interventions.
• Identifying funding opportunities and developing strategies to secure necessary resources.
• Overseeing the implementation of NRC’s Innovation, Protection, Markets, and Digital programming initiatives.
• Contributing to the expansion of Cash-Based Programs and the integration of technology to improve program efficiency. 1
• Strengthening accountability to beneficiaries through improved monitoring and evaluation systems and establishing feedback mechanisms. 1
• Facilitating integrated program analysis and response analysis, ensuring the inclusion of cross-cutting issues such as protection and safe programming. 1
• Overseeing Project Cycle Management (PCM) through field support missions and collaboration with partners. 1
• Liaising with Area Managers to create synergies and ensure effective communication between the Country Office, Area Offices, and partners.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Head of Programmes position should possess the following qualifications:

• Proven experience in program management within the humanitarian sector, preferably in a leadership role.
• Strong understanding of program development processes and strategic planning.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to facilitate collaboration with diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams effectively and foster a culture of learning and accountability.
• Experience in developing and implementing cash-based and market-based programs.
• Knowledge of monitoring and evaluation frameworks and accountability mechanisms.
• Familiarity with NRC policies and procedures is an advantage.
• Strong analytical skills to assess program needs and identify funding opportunities.

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background, typically a Master's degree in a field related to humanitarian assistance, international development, social sciences, or a related discipline. A strong academic foundation is essential to understand the complexities of program management in a humanitarian context.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in program management, with a minimum of 5-7 years in a leadership role within the humanitarian sector. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully managing complex programs and leading teams in challenging environments. Experience working in Kenya or similar contexts is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Kenya is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with beneficiaries and local partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a contract duration of 12 months, subject to renewal based on funding and performance. The role requires approximately 40% travel to field locations. NRC offers a competitive salary and benefits package, aligned with Grade 11 on NRC’s Kenya salary scale. The organization is committed to diversity and encourages applications from qualified Kenyan nationals only. NRC has a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation, abuse, and harassment, and expects all employees to contribute to a safe and respectful work environment.