Head of Programme

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Position Title: Head of Programme
Location: Damascus
Country: Syria
Deadline Date: 28 February 2025

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an international humanitarian organization founded in Denmark in 195

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for their rights, and works towards sustainable solutions for a brighter future. The organization has grown to employ over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, operating in multiple countries and focusing on conflict-affected areas, displacement routes, and host communities. DRC's vision is to ensure a dignified life for all displaced individuals, guided by core values of humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency. In Syria, DRC has been active since 2008, primarily supporting refugees and expanding its humanitarian efforts to assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) and vulnerable populations across the country.

Job Overview:
As a key member of the Senior Management Team, the Head of Programme (HoP) is responsible for driving the overall country strategy in alignment with DRC’s global and regional strategies, as well as addressing the needs and contextual developments on the ground. The HoP oversees the conceptualization and development of programs, leads fundraising efforts, engages with donors, and ensures programmatic quality and effective grant management. This position involves managing a team of technical program staff and ensuring that quality standards are met across all programs, including robust Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) processes. The HoP also plays a crucial role in engaging with partners, civil society, and the donor community to represent DRC’s priorities and ensure adherence to policies and systems.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Head of Programme include:

• Programme Strategy & Development: Identify key developments and trends in Syria, drive the development of the country strategy and sector strategies, ensure evidence-based strategies, and foster synergies between program areas.
• Programme Quality & Coordination: Provide oversight and leadership on design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design and quality assurance, ensure compliance with humanitarian standards, and implement effective MEAL strategies.
• Fundraising and Grants Management: Ensure proposals align with strategic plans, manage budgeting and compliance with donor regulations, and oversee donor reporting.
• Donor Liaison, Partnerships, and Representation: Represent DRC to donors, cultivate relationships, and promote DRC’s localization agenda.
• Direct Staff Management: Set performance goals for technical managers, provide support and coaching, and manage technical consultants.
• Other: Lead efforts towards DRC’s Age, Gender, and Diversity policy and comply with zero-tolerance policies regarding Sexual Exploitation and Abuse.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Head of Programme position include:

• Minimum 5 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, leadership, and design in conflict or post-conflict settings.
• At least 4 years of experience managing emergency operations, preferably in the Middle East.
• Demonstrated skills in proposal and budget development, program implementation, and monitoring and evaluation.
• Proven experience coordinating with national governments, NGOs, and various donors.
• Experience managing integrated programs and capacity building is preferred.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in International Development, Humanitarian Assistance, Project Management, or a related field. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and program management.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of progressively responsible experience in program management, leadership, and design, particularly in conflict or post-conflict countries. Additionally, candidates should have at least 4 years of experience managing emergency operations, with a preference for experience in the Middle East. Proven experience in proposal development, budget management, program implementation, and monitoring and evaluation is also essential.

Languages:
Full professional proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, while proficiency in Arabic is desirable. This language requirement is crucial for effective communication with stakeholders, partners, and beneficiaries in the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is one year, with the possibility of extension. The level of the position is Management E1, and it is based in Damascus, Syria. The expected start date for the role is April or May 202

• Interested candidates must submit a cover letter and an updated CV, both in the same language as the vacancy note, as CV-only applications will not be considered. The application deadline is 28 February 2025.