Executive Director for Partnerships, Advocacy, Engagement & Resource Mobilisation

Executive Director for Partnerships, Advocacy, Engagement & Resource Mobilisation

Danish Refugee Council (DRC)

November 1, 2026December 3, 2026Democratic Congo
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is a leading humanitarian organization that focuses on supporting people affected by displacement. Established in 1956, DRC operates in multiple countries around the world, providing assistance to refugees, internally displaced persons, and other vulnerable populations. The organization is committed to advocating for the rights of displaced individuals and mobilizing resources to meet their needs. DRC employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and private sector partners, to enhance its impact and reach.

Job Overview:
As the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director for Partnerships, Advocacy, Engagement & Resource Mobilisation (PAER) at the Danish Refugee Council, you will play a crucial role in shaping the organization's strategic direction and enhancing its funding base. This position requires a strong leader who can effectively engage with institutional donors, private contributors, and global foundations to secure sustainable funding for DRC's humanitarian efforts. You will be responsible for overseeing DRC's global partnerships and advocacy initiatives, ensuring that the organization remains a trusted partner and advocate for displaced people. Your role will involve collaborating with the Executive Management Team and senior leaders to expand DRC's influence and strengthen its position within the humanitarian sector. You will also lead the Asylum & Refugee Rights department, focusing on legal aid and refugee rights, while fostering collaboration across the organization to enhance employee well-being and financial management.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Set the strategic direction for DRC’s global partnerships, advocacy, engagement, and resource mobilisation agenda.
  • Expand high-level relationships with institutional donors, global foundations, and private-sector partners to secure flexible funding.
  • Oversee DRC’s advocacy, communications, and press efforts, ensuring alignment with organizational priorities.
  • Lead DRC’s international representations in key locations such as Geneva, Brussels, and Berlin, while managing the London representative presence.
  • Provide leadership for the Asylum & Refugee Rights department, ensuring effective legal aid and advocacy for refugee rights.
  • Develop senior leaders within the PAER portfolio, promoting collaboration and effective people management.
  • Communicate DRC’s priorities clearly to internal and external stakeholders, building trusted relationships across cultures and sectors.
  • Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of partnerships and advocacy efforts, making adjustments as necessary to achieve desired outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
  • Senior-level experience in building institutional and private partnerships within the international humanitarian or development sector.
  • In-depth knowledge of humanitarian funding mechanisms related to forced displacement and global policy priorities.
  • Proven track record in resource mobilisation, high-level advocacy, and external engagement.
  • Strong political acumen and credibility with senior stakeholders, including government officials, donors, and private-sector representatives.
  • Executive leadership experience with an inclusive, entrepreneurial, and high-integrity leadership style.
  • Mastery of DRC's core competencies: Communicating, Taking the lead, Collaborating, Striving for excellence, and Demonstrating integrity.

Educational Background:
A relevant advanced degree in international relations, humanitarian studies, public policy, or a related field is required. Additional certifications in fundraising, advocacy, or leadership development would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should possess extensive experience in senior leadership roles within the humanitarian or development sectors, with a focus on partnerships and resource mobilisation. A minimum of 10 years of relevant experience is preferred, demonstrating a successful history of engaging with diverse stakeholders and securing funding for humanitarian initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Proficiency in additional languages, particularly French or Spanish, is considered an asset and would enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a permanent position based at DRC’s headquarters in Copenhagen. The salary and conditions will be in accordance with the agreement between DRC and Lederaftalen, which is applicable for managerial positions. The organization welcomes applications from all nationalities and will assist candidates without the right to work in Denmark with the application process for a work permit. The application process requires candidates to submit a motivated application and CV through the designated recruitment channel, with a closing date for applications set for 5th November 2026.
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