Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization established to assist people forced to flee due to conflict and instability. NRC has been operational in the Central African Republic since 2014, focusing on providing humanitarian assistance to those in need. The organization employs approximately 11 international staff and around 165 national staff, working across various strategic prefectures in the country. NRC's mission is to help millions of people in some of the world's most dangerous and difficult crises, ensuring that they receive high-quality aid and that their rights are defended. The organization operates from multiple field offices and a central office in Bangui, the capital of CAR, and has a diverse program portfolio that includes six core competencies: Information, Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA), Livelihoods and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WaSH), Shelter, Education, and Protection from Violence. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovative teamwork.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme position at NRC is a senior management role focused on developing and implementing high-quality, holistic programs that address the humanitarian needs of the Central African Republic. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading program teams in creating cost-effective and evidence-based project proposals, ensuring alignment with the country strategy and NRC policies. This role involves liaising with donors to secure funding and manage grants, as well as overseeing the monitoring, evaluation, and learning (MEL) systems to ensure that data is collected, analyzed, and used to improve future programs. The Head of Programme will also work closely with the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director to identify evidence gaps and support advocacy initiatives, ensuring that accountability mechanisms are in place and that community feedback is integrated into the program cycle. This position requires a strategic thinker who can manage resources effectively and deliver results in a complex and volatile context.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programme include:

• Developing and updating the fundraising strategy in line with the country strategy and program development needs.
• Leading program teams in the development of concept notes, project proposals, and budgets for scale-up and post-emergency programming.
• Liaising with donors on new funding opportunities and managing grant reporting requirements.
• Ensuring that NRC’s MEL data collection systems are established and that information is properly stored, analyzed, and reported.
• Documenting and assimilating learning to improve future programs.
• Ensuring that the quality of the multi-sectoral integrated program adheres to international standards and NRC policies.
• Supporting the identification of evidence gaps in programs and collating evidence for advocacy initiatives.
• Establishing appropriate accountability mechanisms and ensuring community feedback is acted upon.
• Collaborating with local stakeholders as partners in alignment with local humanitarian leadership objectives.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Head of Programme position include:

• A minimum of 3 years of experience in a senior management role within a humanitarian or recovery context.
• Proven experience working in complex and volatile environments, particularly in neglected crises.
• Knowledge of cash-based interventions and market-based programs.
• Documented results related to the responsibilities of the position.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to manage diverse teams effectively.
• Fluency in both French and English, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Experience in improving program quality and standards, as well as a track record of securing significant donor funding.

Educational Background:
Candidates for the Head of Programme position should possess a relevant educational background, typically including a degree in international development, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in program management, monitoring and evaluation, or related areas may be advantageous.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have substantial experience, specifically a minimum of 3 years in a senior management role within a humanitarian or recovery context. Experience in working in complex and volatile environments, particularly in neglected crises, is essential. Candidates should also have a proven track record of improving program quality and securing donor funding, as well as experience in managing diverse teams and resources effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in French and English is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal communication. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Head of Programme position is based in Bangui, Central African Republic, and is offered as a fixed-term contract for 4 months. The salary is classified as Grade 11 on NRC’s salary scale. NRC is committed to equal opportunities and diversity in the workplace, ensuring a supportive environment for all employees. The organization emphasizes safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment, treating everyone with respect and dignity, and reporting any incidents of exploitation or harassment. This position is part of an internal recruitment process, and applications sent via email will not be accepted.