Head of Programme (HoP)

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, established to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally. DRC has been operational in Türkiye since 2013, focusing on providing support in conflict-affected areas and working closely with local communities to develop sustainable solutions. The organization employs approximately 55 staff in Türkiye, with its country office located in Gaziantep and project offices in Antakya, Kahramanmaras, Kilis, and Sanliurfa. DRC's main donors include ECHO, KfW, and other bilateral donors, and it has developed a new strategy aimed at enhancing its presence and effectiveness in Türkiye through 2028.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme (HoP) plays a crucial role within the Senior Management Team, driving the strategic processes surrounding the Country Programme Plan in alignment with DRC’s global strategy and the evolving needs on the ground. The HoP is responsible for overseeing the conceptualization and development of programs, leading fundraising efforts, and ensuring programmatic quality. This includes monitoring implementation progress, budget utilization, and compliance through regular follow-ups with implementing teams and partners. The HoP also leads the implementation of DRC Türkiye’s protection portfolio, manages a team of program staff, and ensures adherence to quality standards across all programs. The position requires active engagement with partners, civil society, and the donor community to represent DRC’s priorities and maintain momentum in localization efforts. Additionally, the HoP is tasked with planning advocacy engagements to further DRC's mission.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programme include:

• Programme Strategy & Development: Identify key developments and trends in Türkiye, drive the development of the country strategy, ensure evidence-based approaches, and foster synergies between program areas.
• Programme Quality & Coordination: Provide oversight and leadership on design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and quality assurance, ensure compliance with DRC policies, and maintain strategic oversight of program performance.
• Fundraising and Grants Management: Ensure timely and quality proposals and reports, manage budgeting and compliance with donor regulations, and facilitate advocacy efforts.
• Donor Liaison and Representation: Cultivate relationships with donors, represent DRC in relevant forums, and promote DRC’s localization agenda.
• Staff Management: Set clear goals for the Programme Department staff, provide support and coaching, and manage technical consultants as needed.
• Other: Lead by example in upholding DRC’s values and standards, and perform additional duties as requested by the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, leadership, and design in conflict or post-conflict settings. Candidates should have at least 4 years of experience in people management, proven leadership skills, and experience in proposal development, budget management, and program implementation. A high level of knowledge in protection and livelihoods programming is essential, along with experience coordinating with national governments and various institutional donors. Familiarity with the Turkish context or similar environments is preferred, as well as experience in managing integrated programs and capacity-building initiatives.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in International Development, Humanitarian Assistance, Project Management, or a related field. This educational background is essential to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the complexities involved in program management within humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in program management, with a strong emphasis on leadership and design in conflict or post-conflict countries. This experience should include at least 4 years in a managerial role, demonstrating the ability to lead teams effectively and manage complex programs.

Languages:
Proficiency in written and spoken English is mandatory, with a high level of professional communication skills. Knowledge of Turkish and/or Arabic is considered an added value, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with local communities and stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Gaziantep, Türkiye, with a contract length until December 31, 202

• The successful candidate is expected to start on November 1, 2026, or as soon as possible. The role does not allow for permanent remote work arrangements, and salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for nationals or expatriates, depending on the candidate's profile. Interested applicants must submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications reviewed on a rolling basis until the closing date of September 18, 2026.