Job Advertisement

Position Title: Director of Programs - North West Syria
Location: Amman
Country: Jordan
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global humanitarian organization that has been operating since 1979, dedicated to alleviating suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. With a mission to empower individuals and communities to overcome challenges, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries worldwide, employing thousands of staff members who work tirelessly to implement programs that address urgent needs and foster long-term development. The organization is committed to diversity and inclusion, believing that a diverse workforce enhances its ability to achieve its mission and create a lasting impact.

Job Overview:
The Director of Programs (DoP) for North West Syria (NWS) is a pivotal leadership role within Mercy Corps, responsible for the strategic Design and implementation of programs that address humanitarian needs and promote recovery in the region. The DoP will lead a team of Program Managers and collaborate closely with the Performance and Quality (PaQ) team to ensure that programs are executed effectively and in alignment with Mercy Corps' global standards. This position requires a deep understanding of the local context, the ability to engage with various stakeholders, and the capacity to drive programmatic innovation while ensuring compliance with donor regulations. The DoP will also play a crucial role in maintaining relationships with donors and supporting the development of project proposals that reflect the realities of NWS.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Programs will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to:

• Leading the design and implementation of program strategies that align with Mercy Corps' mission and the specific needs of NWS.
• Ensuring that all programs are executed to the highest standards, adhering to internal and external regulations.
• Overseeing Program Management across various field locations, ensuring timely implementation and quality across the entire portfolio.
• Engaging stakeholders and conducting relevant assessments to inform Program Design.
• Providing management and guidance to Program Managers, ensuring integration of monitoring, evaluation, and learning across all programs.
• Coordinating grant development and reporting, ensuring compliance with donor requirements.
• Building and maintaining collaborative partnerships with NGOs and other stakeholders.
• Ensuring that all interventions adhere to Mercy Corps' policies, including safeguarding and Gender Mainstreaming.
• Maintaining oversight of program budgets and resource allocation to meet objectives. 1
• Representing Mercy Corps to donors and other humanitarian actors, ensuring programs are responsive to community needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a BA/S or equivalent in a relevant field, with an MA/S preferred. A minimum of 5 years of mid-level leadership and management experience in large, complex programs, particularly in humanitarian operations, is required. Previous experience in the Middle East and in insecure environments is preferred. Candidates should have substantial knowledge of humanitarian and development programming standards, as well as experience with transitional programming. Familiarity with the international humanitarian system, compliance requirements, and accountability frameworks is essential. Certification in project management methodologies such as Project DPro, Program DPro, or Prince II is advantageous. Strong interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation and coaching abilities, are necessary for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a BA/S in a relevant field, with a preference for candidates holding an MA/S. The focus should be on fields related to Humanitarian Assistance, international development, or a similar area that equips the candidate with the necessary knowledge and skills to lead complex programs effectively.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant experience in mid-level leadership and management roles within large and complex programs, particularly those involving humanitarian operations. Candidates with experience in the Middle East and in insecure environments will be given preference. Additionally, experience in managing programs related to WASH, livelihoods, Agriculture, or peace and conflict programming is desirable, as is a proven track record in securing funding through project development.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential for communication with international stakeholders. Knowledge of Arabic would be highly advantageous, given the regional context and the communities served by Mercy Corps.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Amman, Jordan, and may involve travel to various field locations in North West Syria. The role is full-time and requires a commitment to the principles of accountability and Community Engagement. Mercy Corps offers competitive compensation and benefits, including opportunities for professional development and a supportive work environment that values diversity and inclusion.