Country Director

Country Director

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

May 16, 2026June 8, 2026Thailand
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The organization operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions worldwide. The IRC has been active in Thailand since 1975, providing essential services to refugees from Myanmar and adapting its programs to meet the evolving needs of the population.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director position is a critical leadership role within the IRC, particularly in light of the recent policy changes in Thailand that allow long-staying refugees to work legally. This role involves representing the IRC to various stakeholders, developing strategic relationships, and identifying funding opportunities. The Country Director will provide strategic vision and leadership for the country program, ensuring the design and delivery of high-quality programs while managing donor relations, fundraising, and budget oversight. The successful candidate will need to demonstrate strong communication and interpersonal skills, contextual analytical abilities, and a focus on growing the program's portfolio to maximize impact. This position requires a proactive approach to advocacy, championing refugee rights, and navigating complex political landscapes to ensure the IRC's mission is effectively carried out.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including: developing and executing strategies for high-quality program delivery, leading the country program by fostering collaboration among teams, building partnerships with local organizations and government authorities, ensuring IRC's representation in humanitarian coordination forums, maintaining strong government relations, and raising the profile of IRC's work. Additionally, the Country Director will oversee program quality, pursue funding opportunities, lead advocacy efforts, manage operational processes, and ensure compliance with IRC standards. The role also includes budget management, human resource management, and ensuring staff well-being and development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant international work experience in emergency, post-conflict, and development programming, with a deep understanding of the political and social complexities in Thailand. Extensive experience in program development and fundraising is essential, along with a proven track record of working with various international donors. The ideal candidate will be a strategic risk-taker, passionate about humanitarian aid, and skilled in building effective relationships with diverse stakeholders. Strong human resource management skills and experience in supervising multi-disciplinary teams in cross-cultural settings are also required.

Educational Background:
A relevant advanced degree in international relations, public administration, social sciences, or a related field is preferred. Candidates should have a strong academic background that supports their understanding of humanitarian issues and program management.

Experience:
The position requires extensive experience in international humanitarian work, particularly in the Asia region, with a focus on Myanmar displacement issues. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to lead and manage complex programs and teams, with a history of successful advocacy and relationship-building in challenging environments.

Languages:
Professional fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory. Knowledge of Thai or other regional languages would be advantageous but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bangkok, Thailand, with frequent travel required within the country and region. The role is full-time and involves a significant level of responsibility, including safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management. The IRC adheres to professional standards and values, emphasizing integrity, service, equality, and accountability in all operations.
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