Deputy Director of Programs (DDP)

Deputy Director of Programs (DDP)

International Rescue Committee (IRC)

November 9, 2026December 1, 2026Democratic Congo
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a diverse workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions worldwide.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of Programs (DDP) is a pivotal leadership role within the IRC, responsible for overseeing and ensuring compliance across the organization's program portfolio. This position requires a dynamic leader who can foster cross-departmental collaboration and drive strategic success while supporting an inclusive and motivated team. The DDP will work closely with the Country Director and other senior management team members to develop high-quality proposals and deliver effective programs that align with organizational and donor guidelines. The role involves significant field engagement, with at least 40% of the DDP's time dedicated to supporting programs and teams in various provinces. The DDP is expected to establish and maintain strong relationships with donors and government entities, ensuring that IRC's programming is responsive to the needs of the communities served.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Program Implementation: The DDP will oversee the implementation of programs to ensure high-quality standards and adherence to timelines. This includes supporting Program Coordinators and Technical Coordinators in utilizing structured project management tools, monitoring budgets and expenditures, and ensuring effective communication and coordination within the Programs Department. The DDP will also provide strategic advice to the Country Director on programming developments and opportunities.
  • Strategic Planning and Implementation: The DDP will lead the development and implementation of the Strategy Action Plan (SAP), ensuring alignment with IRC's strategic priorities and fostering ownership across programmatic departments. This includes updating country program strategies annually and integrating cross-cutting issues into sector programming.
  • Grants, Partnerships, and Business Development: The DDP will promote a partnership-driven culture, ensuring that IRC's role in the DRC adds value to government actors and civil society. The DDP will oversee the Grants and Program Development teams, ensuring robust business development strategies are in place and that high-quality proposals are developed for funding opportunities.
  • Human Resources and Staff Development: The DDP will work with the People & Culture team to ensure the recruitment of high-quality staff and manage performance within the Program team. This includes fostering team cohesion and supporting field teams effectively.
  • Liaison/Representation and Coordination: The DDP will represent IRC externally, maintaining strong relationships with donors and government authorities, and contributing to advocacy initiatives and external coordination forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant social science, or equivalent experience in related fields. Additionally, candidates should have over 10 years of experience in a refugee context or complex humanitarian environment, with at least 5 years at a program management level. Strong budget management skills and experience with a variety of donor contracts are essential, as well as experience leading programs through both direct operational approaches and partnerships with local NGOs.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in International Development, International Relations, or a relevant social science is required. Equivalent experience in related fields may also be considered acceptable.

Experience:
The position requires more than 10 years of experience in a humanitarian or development context, with a minimum of 5 years in program management. Candidates should have a proven track record in budget management and experience with large-scale programs and donor contracts. Experience in leading programs through direct operational approaches and partnerships with local NGOs is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Goma, the capital of North Kivu, and involves regular travel to various provinces including South Kivu, North Kivu, Ituri, Haut-Katanga, and Tanganyika. The role is classified as unaccompanied, with the DDP provided individual accommodation. The security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security situation in Goma is rated Orange 4 on the MONUSCO security scale, and candidates are advised to take precautions against crime and theft.
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