Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency dedicated to safeguarding and promoting durable solutions for populations affected by displacement and conflict. Established with a mission rooted in humanitarian principles and human rights, DRC has been operational in Venezuela since 2020, providing essential protection and humanitarian assistance in regions such as Zulia, Apure, and Sucre. The organization employs a regional approach to address the protection crisis in Latin America, with interventions and operations extending to Colombia, Mexico, and Peru. DRC focuses on key sectors including Protection, Economic Recovery (encompassing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security and livelihoods), Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR), and Emergency Response, aiming to alleviate the impacts of generalized violence and mixed population movements.

Job Overview:
As the Head of Programme, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and coordinating the development of the DRC Venezuela country strategy and sector strategies. This position requires close collaboration with the Humanitarian Country teams to ensure the technical design of proposals and budgets aligns with the overarching goals of the organization. You will oversee the technical programme unit, which supports base managers and programme coordinators in implementing projects effectively. Your responsibilities will also include managing the Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) team, ensuring that DRC’s programming is monitored for effectiveness in accordance with country, regional, and global strategies. As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), you will contribute to the overall operational strategy of DRC in Venezuela, ensuring that all programs are aligned with the organization's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your primary responsibilities will encompass the following areas:

• Program Strategy and Business Development: You will be responsible for the overall programmatic strategy across the entire country operation, ensuring strategic coherence and vision. This includes active participation in drafting the DRC Strategic Programme Document and providing technical expertise to enhance program quality and development. You will lead assessments for emergency or long-term programming and shape the Advocacy strategy for the country.
• Quality and Accountability of Programs: You will develop policies, processes, and standards to ensure continuous improvement of program quality, ensuring that DRC values and code of conduct are upheld. You will support the grants team in the timely submission of high-quality donor reports.
• People Management and Internal Communication: You will manage, coordinate, and coach members of the program team, focusing on their professional development and capacity building. You will oversee capacity building for both expatriate and national staff on technical issues and program cycle management.
• External Relations and Representation: Together with the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director, you will represent DRC with government authorities, donors, UN agencies, and other partners, ensuring effective coordination and collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
To qualify for this position, you must possess a minimum of 5 to 7 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, leadership, and design in conflict or post-conflict countries. You should have at least 5 years of management experience, with a minimum of 3 years managing a portfolio of programs across multiple sectors, particularly with a strong protection component, amounting to at least 5 million USD. A good understanding of displacement issues and related international standards/frameworks is essential, along with experience in emergency response programming and early recovery and livelihood programs. Proven fundraising abilities with key donors such as UNHCR, ECHO, DANIDA, and SDC are also required, as well as experience in coordinating with national governments and NGOs.

Educational Background:
A relevant University Degree is required, with a preference for candidates holding a Master's or post-graduate degree in fields such as international relations, humanitarian programs management, political science, international development, or similar disciplines. Additional certifications or licenses related to program management or humanitarian assistance may be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 to 7 years of experience at the international level, with progressively responsible roles in program management and leadership. Experience in conflict or post-conflict settings is crucial, as is a strong background in managing integrated programs and capacity building initiatives. Previous successful experience with DRC is considered an asset, as is a proven track record in program quality, MEAL, and program development.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. Candidates should demonstrate full proficiency in both languages, as effective communication is essential for collaboration with diverse stakeholders and for the successful implementation of programs.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Caracas, Venezuela, which is designated as a non-family duty station and non-accompanied. The role offers an individual housing allowance and is expected to start in June 202

• The contract length is for 12 months, with the possibility of renewal depending on funding and performance. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment at Level E – Manager. Applications must be submitted through the designated application page, and all applicants are required to send a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a maximum length of two pages. The closing date for applications is May 10, 2026.