Senior Operations Roles (Emergency Operations Lead, Operations Manager, Operations Director, Procurement Manager, Startup Operations Lead)

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. The organization partners with communities in times of disaster and hardship to implement bold solutions that help people overcome adversity and build stronger communities. Mercy Corps has a significant presence in various countries, focusing on emergency response, development, and advocacy. The organization is committed to fostering a culture of trust and respect, valuing diverse experiences and perspectives, and empowering team members to reach their full potential. Mercy Corps is also dedicated to safeguarding and ethical practices, ensuring that all individuals are treated with dignity and respect.

Job Overview:
The position is part of the Alumni Talent Pool initiative created by Mercy Corps to support emergency response, transitions, and complex program start-ups. This program aims to fast-track qualified Mercy Corps alumni into temporary Senior Operations roles, providing them with opportunities for professional and personal flexibility while addressing urgent needs in various countries. The roles available include Emergency Operations Lead, Operations Manager, Operations Director, Procurement Manager, and Startup Operations Lead. Each role comes with specific responsibilities that vary based on the assignment type, and members of the Talent Pool will have access to short-term opportunities, typically lasting around three months. The selected candidates will be expected to manage their own time and availability, with the option to accept or decline assignments as they arise.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities for the Senior Operations roles include developing and implementing strategies for operational startup to support emergency responses, managing supply chain lines for timely delivery of relief items, collaborating with various teams to set up new offices and systems, assessing operating environments, and adapting ways of working in compliance with Mercy Corps policies. Specific responsibilities for each role include guiding overall operations strategy, overseeing procurement activities, facilitating competitive processes for contractor selection, and ensuring compliance with donor regulations. Additionally, members will be responsible for recruiting, onboarding, and training national team members, managing logistics and transport services, and maintaining effective management of warehouses and goods. Safeguarding responsibilities include integrating Mercy Corps’ Safeguarding Standards into HR work and encouraging open communication within teams.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, along with at least five years of field experience in international relief and development operations, specifically overseeing procurement and logistics support functions. Prior experience with Mercy Corps within the last four years is required, and candidates should have experience leading teams and managing performance. A strong understanding of institutional donors is preferred, as well as the ability to influence and make effective decisions in emergency contexts. Candidates should demonstrate a personal passion for working in diverse emergencies and be willing to deploy internationally at short notice. Availability to work non-standard hours is also necessary, especially during active emergency responses.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree or equivalent in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should provide candidates with the foundational knowledge necessary to navigate the complexities of international relief and development operations effectively.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of relevant field experience in international relief and development operations. This experience should include overseeing procurement and logistics support functions, as well as prior employment or consultancy with Mercy Corps within the last four years. Experience in leading teams and managing performance is essential, along with a demonstrated ability to handle negotiations and make decisions in high-pressure emergency contexts.

Languages:
Professional level proficiency in at least one of Mercy Corps’ working languages (English, French, Spanish, Arabic) is mandatory. Proficiency in multiple languages is strongly preferred, as it enhances communication and collaboration in diverse operational environments.

Additional Notes:
The positions are temporary, typically lasting around three months, and may vary in terms of salary and benefits depending on the type of employment (expat position, consultancy, or remote work). Candidates will be expected to manage their own time and availability, with the flexibility to accept or decline assignments. Living conditions will depend on the location of the assignment, which may include travel to insecure areas with limited amenities. Mercy Corps is committed to providing equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment, adhering to ethical standards and safeguarding principles.