Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for their rights, and works towards sustainable solutions for their future. The organization operates in conflict-affected areas, along displacement routes, and in host countries, collaborating with local communities to ensure responsible and sustainable solutions. DRC has grown to employ over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers across multiple countries, driven by a vision of a dignified life for all displaced individuals. The organization is guided by its core values of humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, and participation, which underpin all its efforts and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme is a senior management role that reports directly to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director. This position is pivotal in providing strategic direction for DRC’s operations in Jordan and Iraq, ensuring that programming is accountable to the communities served. The Head of Programme is tasked with overseeing high-quality, integrated, evidence-based, and conflict-sensitive programming, focusing on strategic partnerships with local actors and the inclusion of vulnerable populations such as refugees, internally displaced persons, and returnees. The role encompasses the entire project cycle, from context analysis and needs assessments to design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, implementation, monitoring, learning, reporting, and adaptation. The Head of Programme is also responsible for ensuring that DRC’s initiatives address immediate humanitarian needs while supporting longer-term recovery and resilience efforts. This position plays a crucial role in strategy development and implementation, ensuring that policies, systems, and partnerships are coordinated to deliver a comprehensive country program across both Jordan and Iraq.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programme will maintain an in-depth analysis of the humanitarian, protection, and socio-economic contexts in Jordan and Iraq, leading strategic planning and program development processes. Responsibilities include developing and monitoring the country program strategy, ensuring it is evidence-based and aligned with DRC’s core competencies. The role requires fostering synergies between program sectors, ensuring strong protection analysis, and promoting gender equality and social inclusion across all initiatives. The Head of Programme will oversee program implementation, ensuring compliance with DRC policies and donor regulations, and will manage relationships with area offices and field teams to ensure effective program delivery. Additionally, the role involves business development, grant management, and ensuring high-quality proposal development processes. The Head of Programme will also manage and lead the program team, support staff development, and represent DRC to donors and other stakeholders, ensuring that partnerships are equitable and aligned with DRC’s commitments.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a university degree in political science, international development, economics, or a related field, with a Master’s degree preferred. A minimum of 5 years of relevant experience is required, including at least 2 years in a management role. Proven experience in coordinating with national governments, NGOs, and UN agencies is essential, along with experience working with various donors such as SDC, ECHO, and EU. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to applying an age, gender, and diversity (AGD) approach to programming, as well as experience in managing integrated programs and capacity building. Strong leadership skills and competence in people management are also necessary.

Educational Background:
The position requires a university degree in political science, international development, economics, or other relevant fields, with a preference for candidates holding a Master’s degree. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the socio-political contexts in which DRC operates.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 5 years of experience in a relevant field, with a minimum of 2 years in a managerial capacity. Experience in coordinating with national governments, international and national NGOs, and UN agencies is crucial. The candidate should also have a proven track record in managing integrated programs and engaging with various donors, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex funding landscapes and build strategic partnerships.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English and Arabic is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Amman, Jordan, with frequent travel required to field locations in Jordan and Iraq. The closing date for applications is 22-08-2026, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to conduct tests and interviews before the closing date and may close the advertisement earlier if a suitable candidate is found. Candidates must upload a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications sent via email not being considered. The role is full-time and involves significant responsibilities in program management and strategic leadership.