Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
Solidarités 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 approximately 3,200 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers. SI's interventions are characterized by professionalism and a commitment to respecting cultural norms, ensuring that aid is delivered effectively and sensitively in various contexts.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director position at Solidarités International is a critical role that involves overseeing and coordinating humanitarian efforts in Darfur, particularly in response to the ongoing conflict that began in April 202

• The Country Director will be responsible for assessing the security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation, engaging with local authorities, and designing a comprehensive response strategy for North Darfur. This position requires strong leadership skills, as the Country Director will represent SI in negotiations with various stakeholders, including partners, UN agencies, and donors. The role also involves developing a human resources setup and operational concepts to ensure effective implementation of humanitarian activities. The Country Director will need to navigate a high-risk environment, characterized by unpredictable threats and strict security protocols, while prioritizing the needs of affected populations.

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 humanitarian activities.
• Designing a strategic response plan for North Darfur, taking into account existing budgets and potential new proposals.
• Establishing the necessary human resources framework and operational concepts to support the mission.
• Representing SI in local negotiations with authorities, partners, UN agencies, and donors.
• Supporting the access strategy and assessing new intervention areas for potential base openings.
• Managing a team of international and national staff, ensuring effective coordination and implementation of humanitarian programs.
• Monitoring and evaluating the impact of interventions and making necessary adjustments to strategies and operations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Country Director position must possess the following qualifications:

• A Master's degree in a relevant field such as humanitarian response, international cooperation, development studies, or political sciences.
• A minimum of 3 to 4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 3 to 4 years in a similar leadership position.
• Proven skills in security and access management, rapid needs assessment, and strong negotiation capabilities.
• A demonstrated ability to work under pressure, adapt to changing circumstances, and take initiative in problem-solving.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in a field related to humanitarian response, international cooperation, development studies, or political sciences. This advanced degree is essential to ensure that the Country Director has the theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary to navigate the complexities of humanitarian work in a challenging environment like Darfur.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a substantial level of experience, specifically 3 to 4 years in the humanitarian sector, with a focus on leadership roles. Experience in similar positions, particularly in high-risk environments, is crucial for effectively managing operations and responding to emergencies. The candidate should also have a track record of successful negotiations and program implementation in challenging contexts.

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 stakeholders and communities. Knowledge of French is also seen as an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of partners and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as 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 3,080, which consists of a base salary and an annual leave allowance. Additionally, a monthly per diem of USD 750 is provided, along with coverage for accommodation and travel expenses. Expatriates will also benefit from a comprehensive insurance package that covers healthcare expenses, including medical, dental, and repatriation costs. Living conditions in Darfur include good standard guesthouses with solar panels, although social life is limited and access to diverse food options is scarce. The application process requires candidates to submit a CV and cover letter, as applications consisting solely of a CV will not be considered.