Country Director

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Position Title: director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director
Location: East Africa
Country: East Africa
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Solidarités International (SI) is an international humanitarian aid association that has been operational for over 40 years. The organization is dedicated to providing assistance to populations affected by armed conflicts and natural disasters, focusing on meeting their 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 approximately twenty countries and employs around 2,500 individuals, including expatriates, national staff, and volunteers. SI is known for its professionalism and commitment to respecting cultural norms in its interventions.

Job Overview:
The Country Director serves as the official representative of Solidarités International in the designated country and is responsible for the overall development and smooth operation of the mission. This role involves proposing a mission strategy that aligns with the geopolitical and humanitarian context, ensuring its implementation once validated. The Country Director collaborates with the Head of Programs to monitor project progress, ensuring compliance with the Solidarités International charter and internal procedures. Additionally, the Country Director mobilizes necessary material and financial resources for effective program operation and supervises the administration of these resources alongside the Head of Support Services. The position also entails coordinating teams and being accountable for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security within the mission, acting as the direct liaison with Solidarités International HQ.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Director's duties include:

• Developing and implementing mission strategies in alignment with the geopolitical and humanitarian context.
• Monitoring project progress in collaboration with the Head of Programs, ensuring compliance with internal and contractual procedures.
• Mobilizing material and financial resources necessary for program execution.
• Supervising the administration of resources in conjunction with the Head of Support Services.
• Coordinating and managing teams, ensuring effective communication and collaboration.
• Being responsible for the security of the mission and ensuring that all team members are aware of security protocols.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with financial donors and partners, including fundraising efforts.
• Overseeing the launch of new projects and ensuring effective communication with donors and partners.
• Participating in the recruitment and deployment of staff at both capital and field levels. 1
• Ensuring compliance with local regulations and overseeing administrative processes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in humanitarian/development studies, social sciences, management, or a related discipline. They should have experience in the opening phase of missions and working in countries with stringent administrative regulations. A strong understanding of principled-based approaches and experience in diplomatic relations is essential. Candidates should also have proven reporting and writing skills, experience in working with local and international NGOs, and the ability to manage relationships with donors and operational partners. Knowledge of SI's areas of expertise, such as WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), FSL (Food Security and Livelihoods), and Shelter, is considered an asset. Proven management skills, including the ability to motivate and develop team members, are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in humanitarian/development studies, social sciences, management, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the management of development projects.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly in the opening phase of missions. Experience working in East Africa or similar regions is highly desirable. The ability to navigate complex administrative environments and coordinate with local authorities is essential. Previous experience with Solidarités International or similar organizations is an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of a local language is considered an asset and may enhance communication with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is a salaried role with a starting salary of 3,740 EUR gross per month, which includes a base salary of 3,400 EUR 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. The organization implements a break system, allowing for 7 working days off every three months, along with an additional rest day for each month worked. Expatriates benefit from a comprehensive insurance package covering healthcare expenses, including medical, surgical, dental, and repatriation costs. Living conditions at the capital level are generally good, with access to essential goods and services, although field conditions may be more challenging.