Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Head of Department

Job Posting Organization:
Action Against Hunger (ACF) has been operational in Yemen since 2012, providing critical support in both the North and South of the country. The organization has established a strong presence in various governorates, including Al Hudaydah and Hajjah in the North, and Al Hudaydah, Lahj, and Abyan in the South. ACF operates through coordination offices located in Aden and Sanaa, along with field offices in Al Khawkhah and Al Hudaydah. The organization focuses on several key sectors, including Health and Nutrition, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Food Security and Livelihoods (FSL), Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH), and Mental Health and psychosocial-support" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Psychosocial Support (MHPSS). ACF has developed robust technical and operational capabilities in Yemen, supported by its international network, which provides necessary technical, managerial, and financial assistance. The organization manages operations with a budget of approximately 7 million Euros, funded by major donors such as ECHO, GFFO, GAC, CIAA, and CDCS. ACF's mission is to ensure that vulnerable populations have access to essential healthcare and targeted support for food insecurity, while also addressing public health risks that contribute to morbidity.

Job Overview:
The Mental Health and Psychosocial Support Head of Department will be responsible for leading the MHPSS department under the supervision of the Deputy Country Director for Programmes. This role involves ensuring the innovation and quality of the deployment of the sectoral strategy and MHPSS operations within the country office. The successful candidate will define MHPSS strategies and positioning for the country office, coordinate and support the implementation of MHPSS programmes, functionally manage and supervise MHPSS teams, and represent ACF while promoting its positioning within the MHPSS sector. This position is crucial for the development of the department strategy that will align with the country office strategy for 2027-2029, as well as contributing to the development of new projects. The candidate will work closely with MHPSS teams in both Northern and Southern Yemen, ensuring that ongoing interventions are effectively guided and implemented.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Define and develop MHPSS strategies and positioning for the country office, ensuring alignment with ACF's overall mission and objectives.
• Coordinate the implementation of MHPSS programmes, ensuring that they are delivered effectively and meet the needs of the target populations.
• Functionally manage and supervise MHPSS teams, providing guidance, support, and oversight to ensure high-quality service delivery.
• Represent ACF in relevant forums and meetings, promoting the organization's positioning and advocating for the needs of the populations served.
• Collaborate with other departments and sectors within ACF to ensure integrated programming and a holistic approach to health and wellbeing.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of MHPSS programmes, making adjustments as necessary to improve outcomes.
• Contribute to the development of new projects and proposals, ensuring that they are aligned with ACF's strategic objectives and the needs of the communities served.
• Engage in capacity building and training of staff and partners to enhance the overall quality of MHPSS services provided.
• Ensure compliance with ACF's policies and procedures, as well as relevant national and international standards in MHPSS.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s Degree in psychology, mental health, or a related field is required.
• At least 5 years of professional experience in international solidarity, with a minimum of 3 years in humanitarian and/or development project management specifically within the MHPSS sector.
• Proven experience working on integrated programmes in Health, Nutrition, MHPSS, and/or WASH.
• Strong communication skills with a high capacity for representation and advocacy.
• Demonstrated ability in proposal writing and program development.
• Experience in the Middle East region is considered an asset.
• Previous experience working with Action Against Hunger is a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master’s Degree in psychology, mental health, or a closely related field. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical skills required for effective leadership in the MHPSS department.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in international solidarity, with at least 3 years specifically in humanitarian and/or development project management within the MHPSS sector. This experience should include a demonstrated ability to manage complex projects and lead teams effectively in challenging environments.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly those relevant to the local context, would be considered an advantage but is not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered as a fixed-term contract under French legislation for a duration of 3 months. The monthly gross salary ranges from 2597 to 2968€ depending on experience, which includes a 13th-month salary. Non-French citizens will have their pension insurance reimbursed at a rate of 16% of the gross monthly salary. The role includes a monthly per diem and living allowance of $730 net, along with a country allowance of 450€. Child allowance is provided at 1500€ per year per child present in the country of origin, with a maximum of 6000€ per year. Transportation and accommodation costs are covered, and ACF provides comprehensive medical coverage for employees and their dependents. Additional benefits include 25 days of paid leave per year, 20 rest and recuperation days, and support for career development through training and access to an e-learning platform. ACF is committed to inclusivity and actively works against discrimination in all forms.