Head of Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent protection agency established with the mission to protect, advocate for, and promote durable solutions for populations affected by displacement. Since its inception, DRC has been operational in Ukraine since 2014, employing over 800 staff members who implement emergency and recovery programming across various sectors, including Protection, Livelihoods, Shelter/NFIs, and Humanitarian Disarmament and Peacebuilding. DRC's approach is characterized by an integrated model that ensures different sectors complement each other to maximize impact for conflict-affected communities. The organization operates through a decentralized model, allowing for effective program delivery and decision-making at the area office level, while the Country Office provides strategic oversight and support services. This structure ensures that programs are closely aligned with local realities and community needs, setting DRC apart from other mine action operators.

Job Overview:
The Head of Humanitarian Mine Action (HMA) is tasked with providing overall leadership, management, and oversight of DRC's HMA portfolio in Ukraine. This role involves close collaboration with the Head of Operations and the Head of Programs, ensuring that the HMA strategy aligns with the broader objectives of DRC Ukraine. The Head of HMA is responsible for guiding the development of the HMA Programme Strategy, engaging with external stakeholders for fundraising, and leading the liaison with Mine Action Authorities. The position requires a focus on integrated programming, ensuring that HMA efforts contribute to broader recovery outcomes for conflict-affected communities. The Head of HMA will also oversee the capacity building and nationalization strategy for HMA staff, ensuring that the team is well-equipped to meet the challenges of the role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of HMA will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• People Management: Leading and managing direct reports, ensuring effective team structure and sound management practices.
• Strategic Leadership: Setting the strategic direction for the HMA Programme, aligning it with national strategies and donor priorities.
• Programme Design: Participating in decision-making for HMA funding opportunities and leading technical inputs for proposals.
• Reporting and Monitoring: Ensuring quality inputs for donor reports and overseeing data collection in line with standards.
• Localisation: Leading the HMA localisation strategy and ensuring capacity assessments inform partner selection.
• Operational Delivery: Overseeing the planning and delivery of HMA activities, ensuring adherence to operational standards.
• Financial Management: Preparing budget forecasts and ensuring procurement processes are followed.
• External Engagement: Serving as the focal point for donor engagement and maintaining relationships with mine action authorities and other stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 7 years of working experience in the HMA sector at a senior level, with strong technical qualifications. Experience in managing multi-disciplinary teams in complex humanitarian contexts is essential, along with demonstrated expertise in programme strategy design and development. A solid understanding of HMA programme cycle management and compliance with international standards is required. Experience in external engagement with donors and coordination bodies is also necessary, as well as experience in partner management and capacity development.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in a field related to humanitarian action, international relations, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for senior-level positions.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in managing and leading teams in complex humanitarian settings, particularly in conflict zones. Candidates should have a proven track record in programme strategy design, proposal writing, and budget management for multiple concurrent grants.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Ukrainian or Russian is considered an asset, as it would facilitate communication with local stakeholders and authorities.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is 12 months, with a designation of Duty Station in Kyiv, which is classified as a non-family duty station. The expected start date for the role is August or September 202

• Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for both national and international employees. Applicants are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a maximum length of four pages. Applications sent via email will not be considered, and the closing date for applications is set for 19 June 2026.