Country Director

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that has been operational since 194

• With a mission to help people forced to flee, NRC employs approximately 15,000 staff members who work in crises across 40 countries. The organization provides life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year, focusing on the needs of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC is committed to defending the rights of these vulnerable populations and ensuring their dignity is upheld. The organization operates various programs, including education, shelter, water and sanitation, and legal assistance, and places a high emphasis on advocacy and accountability in its operations.

Job Overview:
As the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director for NRC in South Sudan, you will be responsible for providing overall leadership and strategic direction for the country operation. This role requires you to drive effective program delivery, engage in strong external representation, and lead resource mobilization and advocacy efforts. You will be expected to build high-performing teams that can deliver accountable and impactful humanitarian responses. The Country Director will also analyze the political and humanitarian context in South Sudan, ensuring that NRC's programs remain relevant and effective in addressing the evolving needs of the population. You will be a key figure in promoting accountability and the highest ethical standards within the organization, ensuring adherence to humanitarian principles while fostering strong relationships with stakeholders, including government entities, international organizations, donors, and local actors.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director has a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the Country Management Group (CMG) and being a member of the Regional Management Team; providing vision and promoting innovative ideas; ensuring NRC's relevance as a principled humanitarian actor; prioritizing continuous improvement and innovation in humanitarian programming; driving advocacy efforts and representing NRC at strategic levels; analyzing the political and humanitarian context to adapt programs accordingly; fostering relationships with key stakeholders; and collaborating with regional teams to set strategic directions for addressing displacement crises. The role also involves ensuring compliance with NRC's policies and procedures, promoting a culture of accountability, and safeguarding the rights and dignity of affected populations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Country Director position should possess a minimum of seven years of relevant managerial experience, including at least five years in a senior management or Country Director role within humanitarian or recovery contexts. Applicants should have experience working in complex or volatile environments and demonstrate the ability to lead diverse teams effectively. Strong representation skills and the ability to engage with stakeholders at a strategic level are essential. Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory, as the role requires effective communication and advocacy on behalf of NRC.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position typically includes a relevant degree in humanitarian studies, international relations, development studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response, management, or leadership can be advantageous and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have extensive experience in humanitarian operations, particularly in contexts similar to South Sudan. This includes a proven track record of managing complex programs, leading teams, and engaging with various stakeholders in challenging environments. Experience in advocacy work and knowledge of the East and Southern Africa region, particularly South Sudan, is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for external representation. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Juba, South Sudan, and is classified as a grade 12 role on NRC's international salary scale. The contract duration is for two years, and NRC is committed to diversity and equal opportunities in its hiring practices. The organization encourages innovative thinking and provides employees at all levels with the responsibility to contribute ideas and initiatives. This position is open to international candidates, and applicants are required to submit their CV and cover letter in English. Incomplete applications or those submitted in other languages will not be considered.