Head of Support Services

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a humanitarian, non-governmental, non-profit organization founded in 195

• It provides direct assistance to conflict-affected populations, including refugees, internally displaced people (IDPs), and host communities, operating in more than 40 countries worldwide. DRC has been active in the Democratic Republic of the Congo since 2009, initially starting its operations in Province Ituri and gradually expanding to North Kivu and Ituri provinces. The country office is located in Goma, where it coordinates its humanitarian efforts and support services.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Services at the Danish Refugee Council is a pivotal role that encompasses overall leadership responsibility for the operational management of DRC’s activities in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. This position requires a highly qualified individual who is fluent in French and possesses a strong background in finance, administration, human resources, and logistics and procurement. The individual will be responsible for ensuring that DRC’s programs operate in accordance with established operational standards and guidelines. The role involves strategic planning, operational oversight, and the development of long-term visions for the organization’s activities in the region. The Head of Support Services will also serve as a deputy to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director when necessary, ensuring that the organization’s objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Support Services include supporting the Country Director and Senior Management Team in liaising with donors and authorities regarding compliance, registration, and audit issues. The individual will oversee operational support units in finance, administration, HR management, and logistics/procurement, providing technical support and strategic leadership. Responsibilities also include conducting supervision, audits, and implementing corrective actions related to operational standards. The Head of Support Services will develop a risk management plan to identify financial and operational risks and implement mitigation strategies. Additionally, the role involves building the capacity of operational support staff through training and mentoring, contributing to global development initiatives, and ensuring compliance with DRC’s guidelines. The individual will manage support managers, establish high-performing teams, and ensure that technical support is available to programs in line with organizational priorities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Head of Support Services position must possess a relevant university degree, such as in international development or economics, with a specialization in financial management. A minimum of five years of senior leadership experience in operations management roles is required, including at least two years in a similar role within an international NGO. Knowledge of DRC’s ERP system is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate proven leadership skills, operational management experience, and significant experience in procurement and tender processes. Strong analytical and critical thinking skills, excellent communication abilities, and a deep understanding of institutional fundraising are essential. Candidates must also be sensitive to the cultural context of the countries in which DRC operates.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Head of Support Services position includes a relevant university degree, preferably in fields such as international development, economics, or a related discipline. Specialization in financial management is particularly important, as the role involves overseeing financial operations and ensuring compliance with financial standards and practices.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of senior leadership experience in operations management, with at least two years in a similar role within an international NGO. Candidates should have proven operational management experience, particularly in conflict areas, and a strong background in administrative and HR management, as well as information and systems management. Experience in procurement and tender processes is also crucial for this role.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in both English and French is mandatory for this position. This bilingual requirement is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders, including donors and local authorities. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a one-year contract with the possibility of extension, subject to funding availability and satisfactory performance. The salary will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment, specifically within Management Band/E. The duty station for this role will be in Bunia and/or Goma, DR Congo, with an expected availability date of August 202

• The Danish Refugee Council is committed to providing equal opportunities and creating an inclusive work environment, ensuring that all applicants are considered without discrimination based on various factors such as race, age, ability, ethnicity, nationality, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, or marital status. DRC emphasizes the importance of high ethical standards and conducts thorough background checks as part of the recruitment process.