Crisis Analysis Team Director

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Position Title: Crisis Analysis Team Director
Location: Goma
Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global non-profit organization that has been operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since 200

• With a dedicated staff of approximately 400 people, Mercy Corps focuses on both immediate humanitarian response and longer-term development programs. The organization has its national office in Goma and maintains sub-field offices in various provinces including North Kivu, South Kivu, Ituri, and Kasai. Mercy Corps aims to improve water service delivery, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, and promote diversified livelihoods while assisting populations affected by conflict and crisis in Eastern Congo. The organization’s Crisis Analysis Teams play a crucial role in aggregating and analyzing data to enhance decision-making in complex crises, supporting programming in multiple locations including Syria and Nigeria. Their analytical outputs range from informal briefings to in-depth assessments, all aimed at informing effective humanitarian responses and programming.

Job Overview:
The Crisis Analysis Team (CAT) Director is tasked with driving the vision and strategy for the CAT, focusing on the development and delivery of complex analytical products that enhance programming effectiveness in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This role involves leading a team of analysts and support staff to produce timely and high-level analytical outputs, including monthly reports, situational assessments, and thematic analyses. The CAT Director is expected to align these products with the priorities of internal and external stakeholders, fostering strong partnerships with the country program, donors, and other entities. As a core member of the country team, the CAT Director will provide strategic humanitarian and crisis analysis to support programmatic activities in high-risk areas, ensuring that senior leadership has a comprehensive understanding of local trends related to access, conflict, and humanitarian needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The CAT Director will articulate and refine the vision for crisis analysis within the DRC context, ensuring alignment with Mercy Corps’ strategic response. Responsibilities include updating and implementing effective strategies, maintaining partnerships with key analysis actors, and leading specialized research on historical, political, economic, and social dynamics impacting the humanitarian response. The Director will prioritize projects, manage workflows, and contribute to high-quality analytical briefs that inform advocacy efforts. They will design and ensure timely delivery of analytical products tailored to the needs of various stakeholders, including the Country Director and Global Crisis Analysis team. Additionally, the CAT Director will oversee adherence to policies and procedures, manage the CAT’s budget, and lead a team of specialists in stakeholder analysis and engagement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field and have at least five years of experience in security and/or conflict analysis, with a minimum of two years of field experience in an active conflict environment. High-level written and analytical skills are essential, along with experience liaising with diplomatic and multi-national organizations, NGOs, and academic institutions. Strong interpersonal and communication skills are required, as well as experience in leading, training, and coaching teams. Proficiency in Microsoft Office and internet systems is necessary, and fluency in both English and French is mandatory. Knowledge and experience in the DRC context is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master’s degree in a relevant field, which may include areas such as international relations, political science, conflict studies, or a related discipline. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of crisis analysis and humanitarian response in the DRC.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of five years of relevant experience, particularly in security and conflict analysis. This experience should include at least two years spent in the field within an active conflict environment, providing the candidate with the necessary insights and practical knowledge to navigate the challenges faced in such settings.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French, both written and spoken, is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the DRC context may be considered advantageous but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The CAT Director will be based in Goma, DRC, but the position allows for living in Gisenyi, Rwanda, which is a secure and accompanied location. The role involves significant travel to field sites, where living conditions may be basic but secure. The organization emphasizes ongoing learning, allowing team members to dedicate 5% of their time to personal and professional development activities. Mercy Corps is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring a respectful and safe work environment for all team members. The organization adheres to strict safeguarding and ethical standards, promoting accountability and respect for all individuals involved in their work.