Localization Expert

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a humanitarian organization that has been operational since 1956, focusing on providing assistance and protection to refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and other vulnerable populations. With a workforce of approximately 6000 employees, DRC operates in 28 countries worldwide, delivering aid and support in various humanitarian crises. The organization is committed to upholding high standards of professionalism, impact, and expertise in its operations, ensuring that its interventions are effective and accountable to the communities it serves. DRC emphasizes a humanitarian approach, fostering a culture of values and strong leadership, and is dedicated to continuous development and fair compensation for its staff. The organization also prioritizes safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment, conducting thorough background checks during the recruitment process to maintain ethical standards.

Job Overview:
The Localization Expert position within the DRC Humanitarian Response Roster is designed for skilled professionals in the humanitarian field who are capable of leading and advising on localization implementation across various humanitarian agencies and coordination structures. The primary objective of this role is to enhance the capacity of UN organizations and other partners to respond effectively and accountably to crises affecting vulnerable populations. Candidates will be expected to facilitate collaboration among local and national NGOs, international NGOs, UN agencies, governments, and donors, thereby promoting effective localization approaches. The role also involves mentoring local organizations to access coordination mechanisms and decision-making spaces, identifying barriers to effective localization, and supporting practical solutions to overcome these challenges. Additionally, the Localization Expert will contribute to learning, analysis, and reporting on localization progress and challenges, while facilitating the strengthening of local leadership through relevant capacity support methods. The position entails deployment to various UN partners, including OCHA, WFP, UNHCR, UNICEF, UNFPA, FAO, UNDP, and IOM, as well as DRC’s field operations in emergencies and complex protracted situations, typically for a duration of six months.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Localization Expert will be responsible for a comprehensive set of duties, including but not limited to: leading and advising on the implementation of localization strategies across humanitarian agencies; facilitating collaboration and partnerships between local and national NGOs, international NGOs, UN agencies, governments, and donors; mentoring and supporting local organizations in navigating coordination mechanisms and operational platforms; identifying barriers to effective localization and proposing practical solutions; engaging with donors and local actors to promote context-appropriate localization approaches; contributing to the analysis and reporting on localization progress and challenges; and facilitating the strengthening of local leadership through capacity support methods. The expert will also be expected to participate in ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance their skills and knowledge in the field of localization and humanitarian response.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a relevant educational background, specifically an advanced university degree in a relevant field. A combination of working experience with the United Nations and NGOs, or other local actors, is considered a strong advantage. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of three years of specific experience in localization within humanitarian assistance, along with at least two years of international humanitarian field experience that includes exposure to the localization agenda. Proficiency in one official UN language is mandatory, with English being essential and French considered a strong advantage. Candidates should also demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the complexities involved in refugee and IDP responses, as well as a commitment to the humanitarian principles and values upheld by DRC.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Localization Expert position includes an advanced university degree in a relevant field, such as international relations, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related discipline. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian response and localization efforts, as well as for effectively engaging with various stakeholders in the field.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of specific experience in localization within humanitarian assistance. Additionally, candidates should have at least two years of international humanitarian field experience, which provides them with the necessary exposure to the localization agenda and the challenges faced in humanitarian contexts. This level of experience is essential for effectively leading and advising on localization implementation and for navigating the complexities of humanitarian response.

Languages:
Proficiency in one official UN language is mandatory for this position, with English being the primary language required. Additionally, proficiency in French is considered a strong advantage, as it enhances communication and collaboration with a broader range of stakeholders in the humanitarian field. Knowledge of other languages may also be beneficial, depending on the specific context of deployment.

Additional Notes:
The Localization Expert position is a full-time role with a typical deployment duration of six months. Candidates are expected to commit to being active members of the DRC Humanitarian Response Roster for a minimum of three years. The application process requires candidates to submit a cover letter, an updated CV or P11 form, and any applicable performance evaluation reports through the DRC online application system. Applications must be submitted in English, and the deadline for applications is set for 10th June 202

• The screening and selection process will be conducted on an ongoing basis, with long-listed candidates invited for an online test and potential interviews. DRC fosters an inclusive and diverse pool of experts and encourages all qualified applicants to apply, emphasizing its commitment to equal opportunity and creating a positive work environment.