Deputy Country Director for Operations

Job Posting Organization:
SOLIDARITES INTERNATIONAL (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association established over 40 years ago. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting basic needs for food, water, and shelter. SI is particularly committed to combating diseases linked to unsafe water, which is a leading cause of death globally. The organization operates in 26 countries and employs approximately 3,200 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers. SI's interventions are characterized by professionalism and a commitment to respecting cultural norms.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Country Director for Operations will lead SI operations in Marib, Al Mokha/West Coast, and Taiz, ensuring quality implementation, resource management, compliance, accountability, and follow-up of audits. The role involves supervising Base Managers/Heads of Base and supporting operational planning. The Deputy Country Director will coordinate closely with program, support, and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security teams on access, risk management, and program continuity. The position requires maintaining strong security management and negotiation with authorities and tribes, as well as supporting partnerships, representation, and country strategy. The main challenges include significant security risks due to proximity to frontlines and the presence of multiple armed groups, necessitating effective stakeholder engagement and coordination. The Deputy Country Director will also be responsible for assessing the potential opening of a new base in DFA-controlled areas in the North, with a focus on strengthening and enforcing security management systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and oversee operations in Marib, Al Mokha, and Taiz, ensuring effective implementation of programs and adherence to organizational standards.
• Supervise Base Managers/Heads of Base, providing guidance and support for operational planning and execution.
• Coordinate with program and support departments to ensure seamless operations and compliance with security protocols.
• Maintain strong security management practices, including risk assessment and negotiation with local authorities and tribal leaders.
• Develop and implement action plans to address access challenges and enhance program delivery across all bases.
• Review program delivery, budgets, and staffing to establish priority action plans and regular operational reviews.
• Assess options for potential new bases, including legal requirements, costs, and staffing needs.
• Build staff capacity and support the nationalization of Head of Base positions.
• Expand local and international partnerships to improve access to new operational areas. 1
• Ensure compliance with internal controls and audit coordination, maintaining high standards of accountability.

Required Qualifications:

• A diploma (BA or MA) in a relevant field such as political science, international relations, or a related discipline.
• A minimum of 3-4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with 0-2 years in similar positions.
• Strong technical skills and knowledge of Yemen or the Middle East are appreciated.
• Proven leadership and management skills, including multi-base operational leadership, project-cycle management, and resource planning.
• Experience in security management, negotiation skills, and compliance management.
• Strong interpersonal skills, problem-solving abilities, and capacity for self-organization.
• A drive to achieve results and manage stress effectively in complex and volatile environments.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a diploma (BA or MA) in a relevant field such as political science, international relations, or a related area. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian operations and the socio-political context in which SI operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3-4 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, with at least 0-2 years in similar roles. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to manage multi-base operations and navigate the challenges of working in conflict-affected areas.

Languages:
Fluency in written and oral English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
The position is salaried, with compensation starting from EUR 3,300 gross per month, which includes a base salary of EUR 3,000 and a 10% annual leave allowance paid monthly. Additionally, a monthly per diem of USD 750 is provided. SI covers accommodation costs and travel expenses between the expatriate's country of origin and the place of assignment. During the assignment, a system of alternation between work and time off is implemented at the rate of 7 working days every two months, with a USD 850 break allowance. Expatriates benefit from a comprehensive insurance package covering healthcare expenses, including medical and surgical costs, dental care, and repatriation. Living conditions include accommodation in SI rented guesthouses in Al Mokha and Taiz City, with shared offices. The guesthouses are equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning, and communal living areas. Reliable but limited internet is available, and security measures are in place.