Head of Programme

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is a global humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. Established to provide high-quality aid and defend the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, NRC operates in various countries, including Burkina Faso, where it has been active since 201

• The organization focuses on several core competencies, including Shelter, Education, Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, Protection from Violence, and Information Counselling and Legal Assistance (ICLA). NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, fostering a supportive culture that encourages professional growth and innovative teamwork.

Job Overview:
The Head of Programme will be responsible for leading the program strategy, quality, and development for NRC's operations in Burkina Faso. This role requires an experienced leader who can navigate complex and volatile environments, guiding teams through coaching and motivation. The Head of Programme will develop and update the fundraising strategy in alignment with the country strategy and program development needs. They will oversee the creation of cost-effective, evidence-based project proposals and ensure that the multi-sectoral integrated program adheres to international standards and NRC policies. This position also involves collaboration with the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director and other stakeholders to identify evidence gaps and support advocacy initiatives, ensuring that accountability mechanisms are in place and effectively communicated to communities. The Head of Programme will play a crucial role in building strategic partnerships with local and international actors, enhancing NRC's thought leadership in the humanitarian sector.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Head of Programme will be responsible for the following duties:

• Develop and update the fundraising strategy in line with the country strategy and program development needs.
• Lead program teams in creating cost-effective and evidence-based concept notes, project proposals, and budgets for scale-up and durable solutions programming.
• Ensure the quality of the multi-sectoral integrated program aligns with international standards and NRC policies throughout the program management cycle.
• Collaborate with the Country Director and Advocacy & Communications Manager to identify evidence gaps and support advocacy initiatives.
• Ensure accountability mechanisms are well known by communities and that feedback and complaints are acted upon.
• Liaise with donors on new funding and operational areas, managing grant requirements and reporting.
• Ensure NRC’s Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning (MEL) data collection systems are in place and effectively utilized.
• Provide program inputs to the NRC Burkina Faso Country Strategy and ensure alignment with regional and global priorities.
• Identify and work with local stakeholders as partners in alignment with local humanitarian leadership objectives. 1
• Build strategic partnerships with local and international actors to enhance NRC's operational capacity and thought leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in a senior management position within a humanitarian context. They should have a proven track record of working in complex and volatile environments, with documented results related to the responsibilities of the position. Knowledge of leadership skills and a strong understanding of the Burkinabe context are essential. Candidates must demonstrate fluency in both French and English, both written and verbal, and have experience in improving program quality and standards. A successful history of securing significant donor funding in challenging conditions is also required.

Educational Background:
The position requires a relevant educational background, typically at least a bachelor's degree in a field related to humanitarian work, international development, or a similar discipline. Advanced degrees or specialized training in humanitarian response, program management, or related areas are highly desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have substantial experience, specifically a minimum of 5 years in senior management roles within humanitarian contexts. Experience in designing and managing programs in difficult environments is crucial, as is familiarity with the challenges faced in neglected or forgotten crises that receive little media attention.

Languages:
Fluency in French and English is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal communication. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, with a contract duration of 12 months, subject to extension based on performance and funding availability. The role may require travel of up to 30%. NRC offers a competitive salary and benefits package, classified as grade 11 on NRC’s scale, along with terms and conditions that promote diversity and inclusion. The organization is committed to safeguarding and expects all employees to contribute to a safe environment, treating everyone with respect and dignity.