Head of Support

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crisis. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ around 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year. NRC is committed to protecting the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. The organization focuses on various core competencies, including education, protection, legal assistance, shelter, and emergency response, adapting its strategies to meet the diverse needs of affected communities. In Afghanistan, NRC is the largest international non-governmental organization (INGO), with a significant presence across 11 provinces and a workforce of over 600 staff members. The organization is dedicated to addressing the complex humanitarian situation in Afghanistan, particularly in the wake of recent political changes and ongoing crises.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support position at NRC Afghanistan is a strategic leadership role that involves overseeing all support functions to ensure high-quality and efficient program implementation. The role requires a seasoned leader with a strong background in developing and integrating strategies that align with NRC's mission. The Head of Support will be responsible for providing line management, guidance, and direction to Support Managers, ensuring compliance with NRC policies and donor requirements. This position also entails contributing to the development of the country strategy and action plans, coordinating operational support with program plans, and facilitating budget management and business process outsourcing. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in enhancing the technical systems and human resource capacity within the organization, developing standard operating procedures, guidelines, and tools to support effective program delivery. This role is particularly vital in the context of Afghanistan, where the humanitarian situation is complex and requires innovative solutions to address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide line management and guidance to Support Managers, ensuring effective leadership and support for their teams.
• Ensure compliance with NRC policies, guidance, handbooks, and donor/auditor requirements.
• Contribute strategic input into the development of the country strategy and action plans.
• Coordinate operational support to align with program plans and proposal development.
• Facilitate master budget management and country-level budgets, ensuring resource allocation is efficient and effective.
• Develop and enhance technical systems and human resource capacity within the organization.
• Create and implement standard operating procedures, guidelines, and tools to improve program delivery.
• Foster collaboration and constructive relationships with external stakeholders to enhance NRC's impact in the region.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of support functions and make recommendations for improvements. 1
• Lead initiatives to promote a culture of accountability and transparency within the organization.

Required Qualifications:

• Proven senior management experience in a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Expertise in resource and cost allocation, with a strong understanding of financial management principles.
• Experience working in complex and volatile environments, demonstrating adaptability and resilience.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Excellent communication skills in English, both written and verbal, with the ability to convey complex information clearly and effectively.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and motivate teams, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with a focus on results and impact.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in management, humanitarian studies, international relations, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response, project management, or organizational development are highly desirable. Continuous professional development and training in relevant areas will be considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of 5-7 years of senior management experience in humanitarian or recovery contexts is required. Candidates should have a proven track record of successfully leading teams and managing complex projects in challenging environments. Experience working in Afghanistan or similar contexts will be an advantage, as well as familiarity with the specific challenges and dynamics of the region.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and verbal. Knowledge of local languages such as Dari or Pashto is highly desirable and will enhance communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kabul, Afghanistan, with a contract duration of 24 months. The role involves approximately 40% travel within the country. The position is classified as Grade 11 in NRC’s International Salary Scale, which includes a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility for their work. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, as NRC aims to create a diverse and inclusive work environment.