Area Support Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people who have been forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. NRC operates in multiple countries, providing essential support and services to refugees and internally displaced persons. The organization is recognized for its commitment to high-quality aid and advocacy for the rights of vulnerable populations. NRC emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in its workforce, fostering a culture of professional growth and innovation among its employees. With a mission to save lives and rebuild futures, NRC is dedicated to creating a safe environment for all individuals involved in its operations.

Job Overview:
The Area Support Manager (ASM) plays a crucial role in the operational response of the NRC in Sudan, particularly in the Darfur region, which is currently facing a humanitarian crisis with significant displacement of families. The ASM is responsible for coordinating support functions at a large Area Office, relieving the Area Manager of certain operational duties. This position is part of the senior management team and involves establishing and maintaining effective work systems to maximize the impact of NRC's programs for those affected by the conflict. The ASM will oversee various support functions, including HR, finance, and logistics, ensuring that these areas align with the overall program objectives and contribute to the successful implementation of projects.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Area Support Manager include:

• Line management of directly reporting staff, including performance management and goal setting aligned with the country strategy.
• Overseeing workforce planning, recruitment, staff induction, and development while ensuring the Duty of Care for staff.
• Participating in the Area Management Group and ensuring compliance with NRC policies and donor requirements.
• Providing operational support input to the Area Plan of Action and aligning operational support with program plans.
• Ensuring quality support for project implementation and facilitating the Area Support Budget.
• Developing regular reports on Area-level activities for the Country Office and Area Manager.
• Implementing new country-specific technical SOPs and facilitating training for program staff on finance, logistics, and HR procedures.
• Leading the strategic direction of the support department and ensuring effective collaboration among team members.
• Conducting regular compliance checks and addressing areas for improvement in documentation quality. 1
• Supporting the Area Emergency response program and ensuring effective coordination with program functions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Area Support Manager position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 4 years of experience in a middle management role within a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Previous experience in finance, logistics, or HR management, with a solid understanding of routines in these areas within a humanitarian setting.
• Familiarity with complex operational contexts and the ability to manage remote teams effectively.
• Strong communication skills in English, both written and verbal, are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Area Support Manager position typically includes a relevant degree in management, humanitarian studies, business administration, or a related field. Advanced degrees or certifications in these areas may be advantageous and demonstrate a commitment to professional development in the humanitarian sector.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience, specifically a minimum of 4 years in a middle management role within a humanitarian or recovery context. Experience in managing finance, logistics, or HR functions is crucial, as well as familiarity with the challenges faced in complex operational environments, particularly in crisis situations like the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal communication. Knowledge of Arabic or other local languages would be considered an asset, enhancing the ability to communicate effectively with local staff and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Area Support Manager position is based in multiple locations across Sudan, with a fixed-term contract that may be renewed based on funding and performance. The role involves approximately 20% travel for strategic and consultative meetings at the Country Office. NRC is committed to equal opportunities and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, ensuring a supportive and inclusive work environment. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to uphold the highest standards of respect and integrity in their interactions.