Co-Lead, Rapid Response Cluster (GCORR)

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to helping people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and crises. Established in 1946, NRC operates in 40 countries with a workforce of approximately 15,000 employees. The organization focuses on providing vital assistance and long-term support to millions of people affected by displacement, emphasizing the importance of defending the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC is committed to fostering a culture of innovation, responsibility, and professional growth among its employees, ensuring that they can contribute effectively to humanitarian efforts.

Job Overview:
The position of Co-Lead for the Rapid Response Cluster (GCORR) in Burkina Faso involves significant responsibilities aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and responsiveness of humanitarian assistance in the region. The NRC has been active in Burkina Faso since 2014, addressing the needs of individuals affected by conflict through various interventions, including shelter, site management, education, water, sanitation, hygiene, and legal assistance. The Co-Lead will work closely with the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) to ensure effective coordination of rapid humanitarian responses to internal displacements. This role requires a proactive approach to developing and updating humanitarian strategies and action plans, facilitating discussions on rapid response activities, and ensuring that the needs of vulnerable populations are met promptly and effectively. The Co-Lead will also be responsible for preparing agendas for GCORR meetings, producing analytical tools, and supporting the organization of annual workshops to enhance the operational capacity of the cluster.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Co-Lead will have a comprehensive set of duties and responsibilities, including but not limited to:

• Participating in the development and updating of humanitarian strategies and action plans, including response plans and contingency plans.
• Facilitating discussions on rapid response activities based on evolving contexts and formulating recommendations for timely and quality assistance.
• Preparing agendas for regular and extraordinary GCORR meetings and drafting minutes in collaboration with the GCORR Coordinator.
• Actively participating in inter-cluster meetings and other relevant forums, preparing presentations as needed.
• Strengthening the functioning of GCORR groups at regional and national levels, establishing thematic groups as necessary, and ensuring effective tracking of assistance provision.
• Promoting consultation and participation of state actors in GCORR activities.
• Providing technical assistance to all GCORR members as required.
• Monitoring progress related to the Humanitarian Response Plan (HRP) in connection with rapid response efforts.
• Supporting the organization of annual GCORR workshops and following up on recommendations made. 1
• Producing and publishing analytical tools regarding context, needs, capacities, timelines, coverage, and performance of rapid response activities. 1
• Acting as the country focal point for the B-ready tool, ensuring identified actions are tracked and implemented across departments. 1
• Centralizing, tracking, and analyzing all information related to NRC's rapid response activities, producing tools for field teams, and ensuring contributions from area offices. 1
• Supporting Program Managers and Area Managers in analyzing NRC's positioning in relation to various response types.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in a relevant field related to international development or humanitarian aid, or a bachelor's degree with equivalent professional experience. A minimum of 3 to 5 years of continuous professional experience in humanitarian management or coordination at the national level is required, with international experience considered an asset. Proven experience in humanitarian coordination, emergency response management, and rapid needs assessment is essential, along with a solid understanding of humanitarian principles and the ability to operationalize them in response efforts. Strong analytical and writing skills, excellent interpersonal skills, and the ability to negotiate with stakeholders are also critical for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced degree in a relevant field such as international development, humanitarian studies, or a related discipline. Candidates with a bachelor's degree may be considered if they have substantial professional experience that compensates for the lack of an advanced degree. The educational qualifications should align with the responsibilities of managing and coordinating humanitarian responses effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of experience in the humanitarian sector, particularly in conflict-affected, post-conflict, or high-risk environments. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in managing and coordinating emergency projects and programs, with a focus on rapid response mechanisms. Familiarity with the challenges of working in conflict zones and the ability to navigate complex humanitarian landscapes are essential for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in both French and English, both spoken and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of local languages spoken in Burkina Faso is considered a distinct advantage, as it can facilitate communication and engagement with affected communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a national contract for a duration of 12 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability. The role is based in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, and is classified at NRC scale

• The organization encourages applications from individuals who are passionate about humanitarian work and are committed to making a difference in the lives of displaced persons. NRC promotes a culture of inclusivity and encourages diverse candidates to apply.