Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
SOLIDARITES INTERNATIONAL (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting their basic needs for food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. The organization operates in 26 countries and employs around 3200 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, permanent staff at headquarters, and volunteers. SI's interventions are characterized by professionalism and a commitment to respecting cultural norms, ensuring that aid is delivered effectively and sensitively to those in need.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director position is critical for overseeing and coordinating the humanitarian response in Darfur, particularly in light of the recent conflict that erupted in April 202

• The Country Director will assess the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation, engage in negotiations with local authorities, and design a comprehensive response strategy for North Darfur. This role requires a strong understanding of the local context and the ability to navigate complex security challenges. The Country Director will also be responsible for representing SI in negotiations with various stakeholders, including partners, UN agencies, and donors, ensuring that SI's mission and objectives are effectively communicated and supported. The position demands a proactive approach to identifying new intervention areas and establishing operational bases, particularly in regions where humanitarian needs are acute and access is limited.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will have a range of responsibilities, including:

• Assessing the security situation in Darfur and mapping local actors that influence the security landscape.
• Engaging in negotiations with local and national authorities to secure necessary authorizations for SI's activities.
• Designing a response strategy for North Darfur, taking into account existing budgets and potential new proposals.
• Establishing the necessary human resources setup and operational concepts for effective program implementation.
• Representing SI in local negotiations with authorities, partners, UN agencies, and donors to advocate for the organization's mission and secure support for its activities.
• Supporting the access strategy and conducting assessments for new intervention areas and the opening of new bases.
• Managing a team of international and national staff, ensuring effective coordination and collaboration across different bases.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of SI's interventions and making necessary adjustments to strategies and operations based on feedback and changing circumstances.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree in a relevant field such as humanitarian response, international cooperation, development studies, or political sciences. Additionally, candidates should have 3 to 4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3 to 4 years in a similar leadership position. Strong technical skills in security and access management, rapid needs assessment, negotiation, and conflict sensitivity are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to work under pressure, adaptability, and strong initiative in problem-solving.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in a related field is required for this position. This educational background should provide candidates with a solid understanding of humanitarian principles, international development, and the complexities of working in conflict-affected areas.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of 3 to 4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with a focus on leadership roles. Experience in managing teams, coordinating humanitarian responses, and engaging with local authorities and stakeholders is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with international partners. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an advantage, as it facilitates communication with local communities and authorities. Knowledge of French is also seen as an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a short-term contract with a duration of 3 months, starting on May 1, 202

• The role is based in Darfur, which is classified as a high-risk environment with strict security protocols in place. The compensation package includes a gross monthly salary starting from EUR 3080, a monthly per diem of USD 750, and coverage for accommodation and travel expenses. Expatriates will also receive an insurance package that covers healthcare expenses and essential vaccinations. Living conditions in Darfur include good standard guesthouses with solar panels, though social life is limited and access to diverse food options is scarce. The organization emphasizes a zero-tolerance policy towards any form of abuse and discrimination, ensuring a safe and equitable work environment.