Multi-country Director of Programs

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is an international non-profit organization founded with the mission to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members who are dedicated to making a positive impact in the communities they serve. The organization focuses on various sectors including humanitarian assistance, economic development, and peacebuilding, and is committed to delivering high-quality programs that address the diverse needs of communities affected by conflict and climate change. Mercy Corps has a strong presence in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, with ongoing programs in countries such as Ukraine, Syria, Yemen, Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine. The organization recently launched its ten-year strategy, 'Pathway to Possibility', which aims to achieve lasting transformational change at scale through a resilience approach that encompasses security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security, water security, economic opportunity, and peace and good governance. Mercy Corps values diversity and inclusion within its teams, believing that a diverse workforce enhances its ability to serve communities effectively and sustainably.

Job Overview:
The Multi-director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">country Director of Programs (MC DoP) is a strategic leadership role responsible for overseeing design" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">program design, quality, implementation, compliance, and business development for key country programs across the MENA region, specifically in Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, and Yemen. The MC DoP will supervise various program teams, including Country and Program Managers, ensuring that decision-making is evidence-based and data-driven. This position requires a robust framework for accountability and effective resource management, particularly in light of recent funding disruptions. The MC DoP is expected to maintain and expand program portfolios through innovative business development strategies, engaging regularly with donors, partners, and coordination bodies. The role demands excellent program management skills, strong leadership qualities, and the ability to inspire teams to deliver high-impact programs that meet the needs of communities affected by conflict and climate change. The MC DoP will represent Mercy Corps at the highest levels and operationalize strategic visions in alignment with the organization's global direction.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the development and operationalization of country strategies and operational plans in collaboration with Country and Program Managers.
• Innovate program approaches based on needs assessments and donor trends.
• Manage transitions toward sustainable interventions and refine agile systems responsive to contextual changes.
• Maintain a deep understanding of the socio-political and economic contexts in all countries to inform program performance.
• Oversee program management and implementation through direct supervision of Programs and/or Country Managers.
• Ensure compliance with donor and internal regulations and sound program cycle management.
• Supervise Country Managers and coordinate with multi-country support functions (HR, Operations, Finance, Security).
• Ensure strong communication and collaboration with program field teams.
• Promote an evidence-driven culture and establish systems for program quality and learning. 1
• Drive business development strategies and develop strategic donor relationships. 1
• Foster a creative and accountable team culture, providing constructive feedback and performance reviews. 1
• Review budgets and ensure compliance with financial regulations. 1
• Represent Mercy Corps with stakeholders and maintain productive relationships with partners and donors. 1
• Commit to organizational learning and accountability to affected populations, integrating safeguarding practices into work.

Required Qualifications:

• BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field is required; MA/S is preferred.
• A minimum of seven years of senior-level leadership and management experience in large and complex programs, including humanitarian, resilience, recovery, and development operations.
• Previous experience working in the MENA region is essential.
• Strong technical knowledge in Mercy Corps' outcome areas, including Food Security, Water Security, Economic Opportunities, and Peace & Good Governance.
• Substantial knowledge of the international humanitarian system, compliance requirements, and best practices.
• Proven experience in developing and implementing program strategies and securing funding from major donors.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation and coaching abilities.
• Strong project management skills and the ability to solve complex issues collaboratively.
• Outstanding analytical and strategic thinking skills with a focus on results and impact. 1
• Proficiency in English is required; proficiency in Arabic is an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates should possess a BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, with a preference for those holding an MA/S. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of managing complex programs and understanding the humanitarian landscape.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of senior-level leadership and management experience in large and complex programs, particularly in humanitarian, resilience, recovery, and development operations. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in the MENA region and managing strategic transitions from humanitarian to recovery and development phases.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in Arabic is considered an asset, enhancing the ability to engage with local stakeholders and communities effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and involves significant travel to various countries and field offices within the region. The role requires a high level of accountability and the ability to navigate complex environments while fostering collaboration among diverse teams. Compensation and benefits will be commensurate with experience and aligned with Mercy Corps' policies.