Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. NRC has a mission to provide high-quality aid and defend the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization operates in multiple countries, focusing on areas where humanitarian needs are most pressing. NRC is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovation among its employees. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and ethical practices in all its operations, ensuring a safe environment for all stakeholders involved.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director position at NRC is a senior leadership role that requires a solid background in humanitarian programming and fundraising. The successful candidate will oversee NRC's operations in Nigeria, ensuring effective program delivery and strong representation in inter-agency coordination. The role demands strategic leadership to adapt NRC's programs to the evolving humanitarian context in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin, which is characterized by complex challenges such as conflict, climate shocks, and economic fragility. The Country Director will be responsible for driving resource mobilization efforts, advocating for the needs of affected populations, and developing high-performing teams to deliver impactful humanitarian responses. This position is crucial for maintaining NRC's reputation as a trusted partner among donors and stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: analyzing the political and humanitarian context to ensure NRC's programs remain relevant; prioritizing continuous improvement and innovation in humanitarian programming; motivating and coaching staff to build effective teams; promoting accountability and adherence to humanitarian principles; leading NRC's advocacy efforts in Nigeria; developing and enforcing policies to maintain a diverse workforce; serving as a proactive member of the Regional Management Group; engaging with other country offices involved in the Nigerian refugee response; and ensuring staff retention and rotation discussions with the Regional Director. The role requires a proactive approach to leadership and collaboration with various stakeholders to enhance NRC's impact in the region.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management or country director role within a humanitarian or recovery context. Proven results related to the responsibilities of the position are essential, along with knowledge of leadership skills and profiles. Candidates should have experience working in complex and volatile environments, particularly in contexts similar to Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin. Fluency in both French and English, both written and verbal, is mandatory. Additionally, candidates should have experience in advocacy work and change management processes, demonstrating the ability to navigate and influence complex political landscapes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position typically includes a relevant degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, development, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates with extensive experience in senior management roles within humanitarian organizations. Continuous professional development and training in leadership, program management, and humanitarian principles are also beneficial.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of 5 years in senior management roles within humanitarian or recovery contexts. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage complex programs and lead teams effectively in challenging environments. Experience in resource mobilization, advocacy, and strategic planning is crucial, as is familiarity with the specific challenges faced in Nigeria and the Lake Chad Basin.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English is mandatory for this position, as effective communication in these languages is essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and partners. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to connect with affected populations and local communities.

Additional Notes:
The duty station for this position is Abuja, Nigeria, with a contract duration of 24 months, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The position is classified as Grade 12 on NRC's salary scale, and the organization offers a range of benefits to employees, including opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment. NRC is committed to equal opportunities and diversity, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation, abuse, and harassment, emphasizing the importance of safeguarding in all its operations.