Head of Support Services (Re-advertised)

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

• With a mission to assist refugees and internally displaced persons globally, DRC provides emergency aid, advocates for rights, and fosters opportunities for a brighter future. The organization operates in conflict-affected areas, along displacement routes, and in host countries, collaborating with local communities to promote responsible and sustainable solutions. DRC has grown to employ over 7,000 staff and 8,000 volunteers, with a vision centered on ensuring a dignified life for all displaced individuals. DRC has been active in Syria since 2008, focusing on supporting refugees and has expanded its efforts to assist internally displaced persons (IDPs) and vulnerable populations across the country since 201
• DRC's activities in Syria include distributions of non-food items (NFI), shelter, water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH), protection, education, livelihoods, and mine risk education across six governorates, including Damascus, Rural Damascus, Dara'a, Aleppo, Hama, and Homs. The organization emphasizes values such as humanity, respect, independence, neutrality, participation, honesty, and transparency in all its operations.

Job Overview:
The Head of Support Services (HoSS) at the Danish Refugee Council plays a crucial role in ensuring effective and efficient support services across various operational areas, including Finance, Administration, Human Resources, IT, and Supply Chain. The HoSS is responsible for developing and implementing country-specific strategies that align with DRC's mission in Syria, while also improving operational systems, processes, and policies. As a member of the Senior Management Team, the HoSS oversees program support and ensures the timely completion of annual performance indicators related to support functions. The role requires proactive communication with Area Managers, Sector Managers, and Project Managers to address issues related to finance, supply chain, administration, and human resources. The HoSS is also tasked with ensuring compliance with DRC procedures and guidelines, contributing to the development of country strategies, and providing technical guidance to country operations.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The HoSS will lead and manage the Support Service teams, ensuring high performance and quality approaches are maintained. Responsibilities include overseeing operational support units, providing strategic leadership, and ensuring compliance with DRC’s support function guidelines. The HoSS will manage the Country Master Budget, ensuring it is regularly updated and used for project proposals. Additionally, the HoSS will develop a risk management plan, oversee administrative and legal systems, and build the capacity of operational support staff through training and mentoring. The role also involves liaising with donors, auditors, and authorities to ensure compliance and managing audits effectively. The HoSS will ensure the proper use of the DRC Dynamics ERP system and apply data analytics to enhance performance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess at least 7 years of management experience in relevant fields, with proven operational experience in financial, supply chain, human resources, and information management. A minimum of 3 years in a similar role, preferably within an international NGO, is required. Previous experience in senior management roles and working in the Middle East is preferred. Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership skills, competence in people management, and operational management experience, particularly in conflict areas. Familiarity with institutional fundraising and understanding of the cultural context in DRC's operational countries is essential. Experience with ERP systems, particularly in supply chain, finance, and HR, is also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in international development, economics, business management, or a related field is required for this position. This educational background is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively manage support services and contribute to DRC's mission.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of management experience in relevant fields, with a strong emphasis on operational management. Candidates should have proven experience in financial, supply chain, human resources, and information management, with at least 3 years in a similar role, preferably within an international NGO. Previous experience in senior management positions and working in the Middle East is highly desirable, along with demonstrated leadership skills and competence in people management.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an advantage, enhancing communication with local stakeholders and beneficiaries.

Additional Notes:
The contract length for this position is one year, with the possibility of extension based on performance and available funding. The position is classified at the management level (E1) and is based in Damascus, Syria. The expected start date is as soon as possible. Applicants are required to 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 process closes on the 24th of March, 2025, and applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. DRC reserves the right to conduct tests and interviews before the closing date and may close the advertisement earlier if a suitable candidate is found.