Head of Programme

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 disaster. 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. The organization is committed to defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, ensuring that they receive the support they need to rebuild their lives. NRC's mission is to promote human dignity and provide aid in some of the world's most challenging contexts, focusing on delivering high-quality assistance and advocating for the rights of vulnerable populations.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme position is a senior leadership role responsible for the overall development and strategic vision of NRC's programs in Uganda. This position entails fostering a culture of learning and cost-consciousness while ensuring effective communication between various functions and area offices. The Head of Programme will lead the development of partnerships and advocacy priorities relevant to the program, ensuring that they align with the organization's mission and objectives. The role also involves managing and building the capacity of the program team, overseeing project cycle management, monitoring and evaluation frameworks, and ensuring program quality. The Head of Programme will work closely with the Programme Development Unit to enhance core competencies and cross-cutting themes, collaborating with support departments and area managers to achieve programmatic goals. This position requires a proactive approach to donor relations, funding strategies, and compliance with donor standards, as well as a commitment to promoting the rights of internally displaced persons and returnees in line with NRC's advocacy strategy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programme will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Line management of directly reporting staff, including performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, and staff development.
• Providing programmatic input to the Country Strategy and Plan of Action.
• Developing core competency strategies aligned with regional and global priorities.
• Creating holistic and needs-based programs, including cash-based interventions.
• Identifying funding opportunities and developing funding strategies and forecasts.
• Managing grants, ensuring compliance with donor standards, and overseeing quality control and organizational learning.
• Representing NRC in-country and promoting the rights of IDPs and returnees.
• Ensuring adherence to NRC policies and procedures.
• Overseeing strategic program development in line with regional and global initiatives. 1
• Contributing to the expansion of cash-based programs and the use of technology for program efficiency. 1
• Strengthening accountability to beneficiaries through improved M&E systems and feedback mechanisms. 1
• Facilitating integrated program analysis and response analysis. 1
• Liaising with area managers to create synergies and ensure effective communication. 1
• Providing contextual program analysis for strategic planning and reporting. 1
• Managing performance and staff development within the program department. 1
• Exploring new donor opportunities and managing existing donor relations. 1
• Ensuring that safe programming is integrated into design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design. 1
• Leading the development of a fundraising strategy and building strategic relationships with donors. 1
• Performing any other tasks as delegated by the line manager.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Head of Programme position should possess a minimum of 8 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 5 years in a senior management role within a humanitarian or recovery context. They should have documented results related to the responsibilities of the position and experience in holding an international position. Candidates must demonstrate knowledge of leadership skills and core competency expertise, including experience in program strategy development, project cycle management, grants management, and monitoring and evaluation management. Additionally, candidates should have a strong understanding of protection mainstreaming and accountability to affected populations, as well as experience in representation and advocacy.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is essential for this position. Candidates should hold a degree in a field related to humanitarian work, international development, social sciences, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in program management, monitoring and evaluation, or related areas will be considered an advantage.

Experience:
The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly in senior management roles. A minimum of 8 years of experience is required, with at least 5 years in a senior management position. Experience in emergency and post-emergency contexts, as well as familiarity with coordination mechanisms, is highly desirable. Proven ability to work under stressful conditions and manage complex programs is essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages relevant to the East African context would be considered advantageous, as it may enhance communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Kampala, Uganda, with a contract duration of 12 months, which is renewable based on funding and performance. The role requires approximately 30% travel. The salary and benefits will be determined according to NRC's grade 11, applicable to either national or international staff, depending on the candidate's status. NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities, encouraging applications from all qualified candidates regardless of age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, innovation, and responsibility among its employees.