Regional Director, East & Southern Africa

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ around 15,000 staff members who work in crises across 40 countries, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people every year. The organization is committed to upholding the rights of refugees and internally displaced persons, advocating for their needs and ensuring they receive the support necessary to rebuild their lives. NRC's mission is to help those in need, and it operates with a strong focus on humanitarian principles, accountability, and ethics.

Job Overview:
The Regional Director for East & Southern Africa will be responsible for the strategic and operational leadership of NRC's country programs within the region. This role involves overseeing the development and implementation of country strategies, ensuring compliance with organizational policies and standards, and fostering a culture of safety and risk management. The Regional Director will also be accountable for promoting accountability, ethics, and humanitarian principles, while representing NRC at national, regional, and international levels. The position requires strong leadership skills, the ability to inspire and influence others, and a proven track record in managing complex and ambiguous environments. The role also includes responsibilities for fundraising, maintaining donor relations, and overseeing emergency assessments and responses.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Regional Director include:

• Leading people management efforts, including performance management, workforce planning, recruitment, and induction.
• Developing strategic direction and priorities for the region, ensuring alignment with NRC's overall mission.
• Approving country strategies and ensuring compliance with organizational policies and standards.
• Promoting a culture of safety, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and risk management within the organization.
• Advocating for NRC's mission and representing the organization at various levels.
• Engaging in fundraising efforts for program and business development.
• Maintaining and developing relationships with partners and donors.
• Overseeing emergency assessments and responses to crises.
• Contributing to contextual understanding and engagement with local communities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess senior leadership experience, particularly in humanitarian, recovery, or emergency response contexts. A strong network within the international humanitarian community is essential, along with a proven track record of representation at various levels. Experience in change management and start-up operations is advantageous. Familiarity with the East and Southern Africa region, including its complex and volatile contexts, is also required. Candidates should demonstrate strong coordination, networking, and stakeholder management skills, as well as the ability to inspire and lead effective teams.

Educational Background:
A relevant educational background is required, typically including a degree in international relations, humanitarian studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates seeking senior leadership roles within the organization.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in senior leadership roles within humanitarian organizations, with a focus on managing complex programs in challenging environments. Experience in emergency response and recovery operations is crucial, as is familiarity with the East and Southern Africa region. A history of successful fundraising and donor engagement is also important.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the East and Southern Africa region would be considered an asset, enhancing communication and engagement with diverse communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with a contract duration of 24 months. The role involves approximately 30% travel within the region. The position is classified as Grade 13 in NRC’s Salary Scale, which includes a competitive compensation and benefits package. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from candidates of all backgrounds, particularly women and individuals from underrepresented groups. The organization emphasizes a culture of empowerment, allowing employees to share ideas and take responsibility.