Humanitarian Policy Manager

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that has been providing assistance to people forced to flee since its establishment. With a workforce of approximately 15,000 staff members, NRC operates in 40 countries worldwide, delivering life-saving and long-term support to millions of individuals each year. NRC has been active in Myanmar since 2008, particularly after the devastation caused by Cyclone Nargis, and has developed a strong reputation for its technical skills and effective program delivery. The organization focuses on various sectors, including education, legal assistance, protection, shelter, and water, sanitation, and hygiene, and works collaboratively with a diverse range of partners to address the needs of vulnerable populations affected by conflict and displacement.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Policy Manager will play a crucial role in leading and managing the policy and advocacy efforts of NRC in Myanmar. This position requires a strategic leader who can identify priority protection concerns and effectively incorporate advocacy into NRC's activities. The role involves developing and implementing advocacy strategies, coordinating messaging to maximize impact, and ensuring coherence between advocacy efforts and programmatic activities. The manager will also be responsible for training and capacity building for staff, providing humanitarian and displacement analysis, and advising on media strategies. This position is ideal for someone with a strong background in protection, advocacy, and humanitarian response, who is capable of navigating complex and volatile contexts while effectively communicating NRC's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Humanitarian Policy Manager will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: identifying and prioritizing advocacy responses related to protection and humanitarian access; developing and implementing advocacy strategies; coordinating the delivery of advocacy and communications messaging to maximize impact; ensuring coherence and synergies between advocacy efforts and NRC programs; providing training and capacity building for new staff on advocacy; conducting humanitarian and displacement analysis and preparing public-facing advocacy products; advising on media lines and strategies while assessing potential risks; representing NRC in advocacy efforts; and strengthening strategic advocacy networks. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying issues and opportunities for advocacy, as well as the ability to work collaboratively with various stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Humanitarian Policy Manager position should possess significant experience in a managerial or advisory role within the humanitarian field. A strong understanding of protection principles and advocacy is essential, along with exposure to media for public advocacy. Expertise in policy processes related to forced displacement, migration, and humanitarian response frameworks is also required. The ideal candidate will have experience in analysis, messaging, coordination, and networking, as well as exceptional communication skills, both written and verbal. Familiarity with complex and volatile contexts is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is necessary for the Humanitarian Policy Manager position. Candidates should ideally hold a degree in a field related to humanitarian studies, international relations, social sciences, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates with extensive experience in the humanitarian sector.

Experience:
The position requires a substantial level of experience, typically at least 5-7 years in the humanitarian field, with a focus on policy and advocacy. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in complex humanitarian contexts and should demonstrate experience in leading advocacy initiatives and managing teams. Experience in capacity building and training is also highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills relevant to the context of Myanmar may be considered an asset, particularly if they enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Yangon, Myanmar, with potential travel to other locations as required. The contract duration is set for 12 months, with approximately 20% travel expected. The role is classified as Grade 9 in NRC's Salary Scale, which comes with a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion in its workforce and encourages applications from candidates of diverse backgrounds. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, encouraging employees to share ideas and take responsibility. It is important to note that NRC does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.