Area Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of individuals each year. In the Middle East alone, NRC has over 3,000 staff dedicated to helping those affected by conflict in countries such as Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, and Palestine. The organization focuses on delivering humanitarian interventions based on its core competencies, which include Shelter, Education, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, and Information Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA).

Job Overview:
The Area Manager position at NRC Syria is a pivotal role that involves ensuring the high-quality implementation of NRC’s core competencies within the South-Central Office. The role holder will manage support functions, ensure compliance with NRC policies, and represent NRC at the area level. As a key member of the Country Management Group (CMG), the Area Manager will contribute to strategic decision-making processes. This position requires a dynamic leader with extensive experience in integrated program implementation, strategic planning, coordination, and representation. The Area Manager will be responsible for overseeing various operational aspects, ensuring that programs are delivered effectively and efficiently while adhering to NRC's standards and policies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The specific responsibilities of the Area Manager include:

• Leadership & Representation: Act as the primary representative of NRC in the area, engaging with local authorities, partners, and stakeholders to promote NRC’s mission and objectives.
• Program and Operations Management: Oversee the implementation of programs, ensuring they are delivered in accordance with NRC’s standards and policies.
• Access and Risk Management: Identify and mitigate risks associated with program delivery, ensuring the safety and security of staff and beneficiaries.
• Human Resources and Team Management: Lead and manage a diverse team, fostering a positive work environment and ensuring staff well-being.
• Accountability: Ensure that NRC’s accountability mechanisms are in place and functioning effectively, promoting transparency and responsiveness to the needs of beneficiaries.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Area Manager position must possess a Bachelor's degree in international relations, Development Studies, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is considered an added value. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of 4 years of relevant leadership and management experience within the humanitarian field, particularly in conflict-affected settings, with a preference for experience in the Middle East. Proven skills in leadership, management of large and diverse teams, and strategic planning are essential. Candidates should also demonstrate experience in security management and risk mitigation, as well as strong budget management, HR, and logistics oversight experience. The ability to work under pressure and adapt to rapidly changing environments is crucial.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Area Manager position includes a Bachelor's degree in international relations, Development Studies, Business Administration, or a related field. A Master’s degree is advantageous and may enhance a candidate's application, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex humanitarian issues.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 4 years of relevant leadership and management experience within the humanitarian sector. Candidates should have experience working in conflict-affected settings, particularly in the Middle East, and must demonstrate proven skills in managing large and diverse teams, strategic planning, and operational management.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of Arabic is considered a plus, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries, enhancing the effectiveness of program delivery.

Additional Notes:
The Area Manager position is based in Homs, Damascus, or Dara’a, with a fixed-term contract that is renewable based on performance and funding availability. The role requires travel of approximately 30-40%. The salary and benefits are classified under Grade 10 on NRC’s Syria national or international salary scale, and the organization is open to both national and international candidates. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity, regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization fosters a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility.