Cash and Markets Specialist

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, NRC has over 3,000 staff dedicated to supporting those affected by conflict in countries such as Jordan, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq, Libya, and Palestine. The organization focuses on several core competencies, including 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), aimed at helping vulnerable displaced populations. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity, and fostering a culture that encourages innovative ideas and responsibility at all levels.

Job Overview:
The Cash and Markets Specialist role at NRC Palestine is pivotal in providing strategic and technical leadership for the organization's cash and voucher assistance (CVA) and market-based programming. The specialist will ensure that interventions are context-appropriate, risk-informed, and contribute to household recovery while also supporting the functioning of local markets. This position requires the specialist to lead CVA feasibility studies, conduct market and risk assessments, and provide guidance on the most suitable cash, voucher, or hybrid modalities. This includes determining transfer values, targeting approaches, and implementing safeguards. The specialist will also ensure that cash and market interventions align with NRC standards, donor requirements, and principles of protection, accountability, and social inclusion. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in CVA and market-based programming, capacity building, and coordination, making them well-suited for this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Cash and Markets Specialist will be responsible for a variety of tasks, including but not limited to:

• Strategy and Programme Development: Developing and refining strategies for cash and market interventions that align with NRC's mission and objectives.
• Technical Support, Oversight, and Capacity Building: Providing technical support to field teams, ensuring they have the necessary skills and knowledge to implement cash and market programs effectively.
• Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning: Establishing monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the impact of cash and market interventions, and using this data to inform future programming.
• Coordination, Partnerships, and Representation: Engaging with local partners, stakeholders, and other humanitarian actors to coordinate efforts and represent NRC's interests in relevant forums.
• Conducting market assessments and feasibility studies to inform design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation.
• Advising on the development of cash transfer mechanisms and ensuring compliance with donor regulations and NRC policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least five years of experience in humanitarian and/or development contexts, specifically in systems programming focused on cash and markets. This includes a minimum of three years in a project management role. Advanced knowledge and skills in designing and implementing cash and voucher assistance (CVA) and market-based approaches (MBA) are essential. Candidates should have experience in conducting market system assessments, mapping, and analysis, as well as institutionalizing CVA and MBA while addressing structural barriers to market systems adoption. Additionally, knowledge of developing and facilitating training sessions on CVA and MBA is required. Experience in complex and volatile contexts, particularly in areas with high inflation, is desirable. Strong strategic thinking skills and the ability to translate concepts into actionable plans are crucial, along with a proven track record of accountability in program components.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in social sciences, economics, international development, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in cash and market programming may be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in humanitarian or development contexts, with a focus on cash and markets. Candidates should have substantial experience in project management, particularly in cash and voucher assistance and market-based programming. Experience working in complex and volatile environments is highly valued, especially in contexts with significant economic challenges.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an advantage, particularly for understanding the local context in Palestine. Proficiency in additional languages may also be beneficial but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in either Amman or Jerusalem, with travel requirements of approximately 30% to areas of operation. The salary and benefits are aligned with NRC's National or International salary scale, specifically at Grade

• NRC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity and inclusion without discrimination based on age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization encourages innovative thinking and provides opportunities for employees to take initiative and contribute to the mission.