Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a prominent humanitarian organization established to protect and advocate for individuals affected by displacement, conflict, and crisis. Founded in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Europe, focusing on delivering integrated humanitarian and development programming. With a significant presence in Yemen since 2008, DRC has expanded its operations in response to the ongoing conflict, establishing itself as a key player in addressing one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The organization employs a diverse workforce and has a substantial annual program portfolio, particularly in Yemen, where it manages approximately USD 100 million in humanitarian assistance, making it one of DRC's largest country programs.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director role is pivotal in providing strategic leadership to DRC's extensive operations in Yemen, which is characterized by complexity and urgency. The position demands visionary leadership and innovation to navigate the challenging humanitarian landscape. The Country Director is responsible for ensuring that DRC's operations are aligned with its mission to provide durable solutions for displaced populations. This includes overseeing program quality, safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, financial management, and compliance with organizational standards. The role also involves external representation, advocacy, and fostering partnerships to enhance DRC's influence and effectiveness in Yemen. The Country Director will lead the development of high-performing teams, ensuring that staff welfare and security are prioritized while promoting a culture of accountability and learning within the organization. This position offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact in a high-stakes environment, driving DRC's mission forward in one of the most pressing humanitarian contexts globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director's responsibilities encompass a wide range of leadership and management functions. Key duties include:

• Providing overall leadership and strategic direction for DRC's operations in Yemen, ensuring alignment with organizational values and objectives.
• Leading and developing the Senior Management Team to foster effective collaboration and decision-making.
• Establishing clear objectives and accountability measures across the organization, promoting a culture that reflects DRC's values.
• Managing recruitment, performance management, and staff development processes in accordance with DRC policies.
• Representing DRC at various levels, including national and international forums, to strengthen relationships with stakeholders.
• Overseeing the country program's management and ensuring strategic coherence across all functions.
• Leading fundraising efforts and maintaining strong donor relations to support program sustainability.
• Ensuring safety and security protocols are in place and adhered to, adapting to the evolving context.
• Managing financial health and compliance of the operation, ensuring effective resource allocation and risk management. 1
• Promoting accountability and compliance with DRC policies and standards, ensuring community engagement in design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and implementation.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of management experience in emergency or development contexts, ideally as a country director or senior manager within a humanitarian or development organization. Additional qualifications include:

• Proven experience in people management and leadership.
• Strong background in representing organizations to donors and external partners.
• Experience in advocacy, networking, and coordination within the humanitarian sector.
• Ability to manage staff in high-stress and insecure environments.
• Familiarity with conflict-related displacement issues and managing budgets across multiple donor contracts.
• Experience in fundraising and maintaining donor relationships.
• Knowledge of Humanitarian Mine Action is preferred, as is experience working in the Middle East and Yemen.
• Strong communication skills and a commitment to accountability and quality assurance practices.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required for this position. This educational background should ideally align with the humanitarian or development sector, equipping the candidate with the necessary theoretical and practical knowledge to effectively lead DRC's operations in Yemen.

Experience:
The role requires a minimum of five years of relevant management experience, particularly in emergency or development contexts. Candidates should have a proven track record in leadership positions, demonstrating their ability to manage complex operations and lead diverse teams effectively. Experience in high-stakes environments, particularly in conflict zones, is essential, as is familiarity with the unique challenges faced in humanitarian settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within DRC and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in Arabic is desirable, as it would facilitate better engagement with local communities and stakeholders in Yemen, enhancing the effectiveness of DRC's operations.

Additional Notes:
This position is offered on a 12-month contract basis, with the potential for extension based on funding and performance. The role is classified at the Management band (D) level, indicating a senior leadership position within the organization. The suggested start date for this role is January 01, 202

• The duty station is located in Sana'a, Yemen, which is designated as an unaccompanied/non-family duty station, reflecting the security and operational context of the region. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for expatriates or nationals. Interested candidates are required to submit a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with applications sent via email not being considered. The closing date for applications is October 08, 2027.