Head of Support Services

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Head of Support Services
Location: Tbilisi
Country: Georgia
Deadline Date: 26 Feb 2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, established in 195

• DRC has been operational in Georgia since 1999, with a significant presence in the region, including an operation in Abkhazia since 200
• The organization focuses on addressing vulnerabilities and engaging in poverty reduction, particularly for displaced and conflict-affected persons. DRC operates across various sectors, including livelihoods, access to social services, governance, education, and shelter/housing, with a commitment to sustainable community development. The organization currently employs over 28 staff members across four offices in Georgia, including two field offices in Abkhazia, and works with major donors such as SIDA, the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the European Union.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Services (HoSS) is a pivotal role within the Danish Refugee Council, responsible for ensuring the smooth and efficient operation of support services, which encompass finance, human resources, supply chain, administration, and IT. The HoSS will be instrumental in developing and implementing strategies tailored to the Georgian context while continuously enhancing operational systems and policies to align with DRC’s global standards. As a member of the Senior Management Team (SMT), the HoSS will collaborate closely with other leaders to drive organizational effectiveness and support the mission of DRC in Georgia. This role requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to fostering a high-performance culture within the support team.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Support Services include:

• Financial Planning & Analysis: Overseeing the Mission Master Budget and forecast tracker, reviewing budget proposals, ensuring timely financial reporting, and maintaining budgetary control across country programs.
• Accounting: Ensuring compliance with financial obligations, preparing for audits, and managing accounting closures.
• Management: Leading and motivating the support team, establishing high-performing teams, and developing operational approaches and compliance systems.
• Management of Support Services and HR: Supporting the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director in liaising with donors, ensuring operational standards are met, and driving HR activities such as recruitment and performance management.
• DRC Dynamics ERP System: Ensuring effective use of the ERP system and leveraging data analytics for performance improvement.
• Risk Management: Developing and implementing a risk management plan to identify and mitigate financial and operational risks.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Head of Support Services position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in operations management, with at least 3 years in a similar role.
• Experience in the NGO sector is desirable, along with proven leadership skills and competence in people management for at least 4 years.
• Demonstrated operational management experience, grant management expertise, and significant financial management experience.
• Strong procurement and tender process experience, along with excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel and experience with ERP systems are advantageous.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a university degree in Economics, Business Administration, Management, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of financial management and operational oversight within the NGO sector.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of senior leadership experience in operations management roles, with at least 3 years in a similar position. Experience in the NGO sector is highly desirable, as is proven operational management experience and capability.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English and Georgian is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is until 28 February 2026, with a preferred start date of 01 March 202

• The position is classified under Band Management E1, and the work location is Tbilisi, Georgia. Salary and conditions will be in accordance with the Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for national contracts. The application process requires candidates to upload a cover letter and an updated CV in English, with a closing date for applications set for 26 February 202
• Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and DRC reserves the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is identified. DRC is committed to creating an inclusive and positive work environment and is an equal opportunity employer.