Safeguarding and Safe, Inclusive and Transformative Programming (SITP) Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a leading humanitarian organization that responds to the world's worst crises. Founded in 1933, IRC offers lifesaving care and life-changing assistance to refugees and those displaced by conflict and disaster. The organization operates in over 40 countries and has a workforce of more than 10,000 employees. In Syria, IRC has been providing humanitarian assistance since the onset of the crisis, which is often described as the worst humanitarian catastrophe since the end of the Cold War. The organization is committed to addressing the needs of 13.4 million people in Syria who require humanitarian assistance, including 6.8 million refugees and asylum-seekers. IRC's mission is to help people survive, recover, and rebuild their lives, focusing on health, education, protection, and livelihoods.

Job Overview:
The Safeguarding and Safe, Inclusive and Transformative Programming (SITP) Manager plays a crucial role in ensuring that IRC maintains a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace and programming environment. This position is primarily focused on implementing safeguarding practices within the organization's operations and workforce culture. The Manager will also provide technical support to ensure that SITP principles are integrated into design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, implementation, and partnerships. The role requires close coordination with various teams, including the Violence Prevention and Response Unit (VPRU), program leadership, and partnership teams, to strengthen safeguarding and SITP across all aspects of the Syria Country Program. The Manager will advocate for IRC's interests in relevant coordination forums and work with diverse external actors, including national and international humanitarian organizations, government authorities, and donors.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Safeguarding and Safe, Inclusive and Transformative Programming in Operations: Support the capacity-building and empowerment of the Women at Work (W@W) network and their focal points, GEDI Champions, and Safeguarding focal points on SITP-related matters. Collaborate with People & Culture (P&C) colleagues on the implementation of safeguarding policies. Roll out initiatives and training for staff to foster an inclusive and gender-sensitive culture. Ensure strong safeguarding policies and effective Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are in place. Monitor the orientation of newly hired staff regarding IRC policies and reporting pathways. Promote best practices in hiring and recruitment. Ensure SITP priorities are reflected in the country program's strategic planning. Collaborate with global and regional teams to implement inclusive recruitment policies.
• Safeguarding and Safe, Inclusive and Transformative Programming in Programs: Collaborate with program teams on safeguarding risk analysis and ensure mitigation measures are included in project design. Support safeguarding focal points within programs to create a safe environment. Conduct analyses to identify barriers to inclusion and apply findings to program design. Ensure meaningful participation of marginalized clients across the program cycle.
• Safeguarding and Safe, Inclusive and Transformative Programming in Partnerships: Assess and establish priorities for partner support actions. Deliver training and support to partners to reinforce their safeguarding policies. Collaborate with partners to integrate SITP principles into program design and evaluation.
• Advocacy, Communication, and Networking: Meet with other agencies’ safeguarding focal points to understand existing systems. Represent IRC in safeguarding coordination forums and build relationships with external stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
At least 6 years of progressively responsible professional experience in a Safeguarding, GEDI, or SITP role. Previous experience in emergency or conflict-affected settings is required. A university degree in a relevant professional qualification is necessary. Proven experience working directly with partners in diverse humanitarian settings is essential. Candidates must demonstrate a commitment to IRC’s mission and values, possess strong communication skills, and have the ability to handle complex situations with discretion and integrity. Excellent management and interpersonal skills are required, along with the ability to promote teamwork in a cross-cultural context. Candidates should also have strong analytical skills and the ability to create effective solutions to complex issues.

Educational Background:
A university degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This could include degrees in social sciences, international relations, public health, or other related disciplines that provide a strong foundation for understanding humanitarian work and safeguarding principles.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 6 years of progressively responsible professional experience in safeguarding, gender equity, diversity, and inclusion (GEDI), or safe programming roles. Experience in emergency or conflict-affected settings is essential, as is proven experience working with partners in complex humanitarian environments. The role requires a demonstrated ability to manage and lead initiatives that promote safeguarding and inclusive programming.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly in the context of working with diverse communities and stakeholders in Syria and the surrounding region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Damascus, Syria, and may require travel to field sites, with a minimum of 50% travel expected. The role is full-time and may involve attending regional and global workshops and meetings as needed. IRC encourages national or returning national candidates to apply, offering an attractive remuneration package that includes competitive compensation, return flights, shipping allowances, temporary housing, and relocation allowances. IRC is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace and adheres to professional standards that promote integrity, service, accountability, and equality.