INGO Forum Director

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization that has been working to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries, employing more than 5,000 staff members. The organization focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, education, and emergency response, and is committed to addressing the root causes of poverty and conflict. In Sudan, Mercy Corps hosts the INGO Forum, which serves as a platform for international non-governmental organizations to coordinate their efforts and advocate for humanitarian needs.

Job Overview:
The INGO Forum Director will provide strategic leadership and oversight for the INGO Forum in Sudan, which is a critical platform for coordinating humanitarian efforts among international NGOs. The Director will be responsible for ensuring that the Forum effectively represents the collective interests of its members, engages with key stakeholders, and adapts to the evolving humanitarian landscape in Sudan. This role requires a deep understanding of the complexities of humanitarian coordination, advocacy, and access challenges in a conflict-affected context. The Director will work closely with the Steering Committee and member organizations to develop and implement strategies that enhance the impact of humanitarian assistance in Sudan, particularly in light of the ongoing crises and challenges faced by the population.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the strategic direction of the INGO Forum, ensuring alignment with the needs and priorities of member organizations and the humanitarian context in Sudan.
• Oversee the development and implementation of annual work plans and strategies in consultation with the Steering Committee and members.
• Serve as the primary representative of the Forum in high-level coordination and diplomatic spaces, advocating for improved humanitarian access and conditions.
• Facilitate effective coordination among member organizations and ensure strong internal communication and information sharing.
• Manage the Secretariat team, including recruitment, performance management, and capacity building, to ensure effective operations across diverse contexts.
• Foster relationships with external stakeholders, including donors, UN agencies, and national authorities, to advocate for collective positions and enhance the Forum's visibility.
• Lead fundraising efforts and oversee donor reporting and engagement in collaboration with host agencies.
• Ensure that safeguarding principles are integrated into all aspects of the Forum's work and promote a culture of accountability and respect among team members.

Required Qualifications:

• A graduate degree in a relevant field or equivalent professional experience.
• A minimum of 10 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 5 years in senior leadership or coordination roles.
• Strong understanding of humanitarian coordination, access negotiations, and inter-agency mechanisms.
• Proven experience leading teams in complex humanitarian environments and exceptional representation and diplomacy skills.
• Ability to operate independently with significant strategic autonomy and fluency in English (written and spoken).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree in a relevant field, such as international relations, humanitarian studies, or a related discipline. Equivalent professional experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education. The educational background should provide a solid foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the political dynamics in conflict-affected areas.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 10 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with a strong emphasis on leadership roles. A minimum of 5 years in senior leadership or coordination positions is essential, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex humanitarian environments and engage effectively with diverse stakeholders. Experience in Sudan or similar conflict-affected contexts is highly desirable, as is a proven track record of successful advocacy and coordination efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of Arabic is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's ability to engage with local stakeholders and navigate the humanitarian landscape in Sudan. Additional language skills relevant to the region may also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and regular, with a contract duration of 8 months, from August 2026 to March 202

• The preferred base location is Port Sudan, with significant travel expected to various locations within Sudan, including Darfur, and to Nairobi. The role may involve working in insecure environments with limited amenities and infrastructure. Housing will be provided in guesthouses, with varying conditions depending on the location. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate time to professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment.