Job Advertisement

Position Title: Emergency Programs Director
Location: Goma
Country: Democratic Republic of Congo
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps has been operating in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) since August 200

• The organization employs around 400 people and works in North and South Kivu and Ituri. Its overall mission is to support vulnerable communities through crises while fostering programs that build resilience and promote long-term change. Mercy Corps focuses on key programming areas that include improving water service delivery, Food Security, nutrition, and promoting diversified livelihoods. The organization is also involved in humanitarian programs aimed at assisting populations affected by conflicts and crises in Eastern Congo, with a funding portfolio exceeding USD 20 million. Mercy Corps is the lead agency for the SAFER Consortium, which aims to provide coordinated humanitarian responses to vulnerable households affected by conflict and shocks.

Job Overview:
The Emergency Programs Director will lead and manage a multi-million dollar humanitarian portfolio, ensuring effective implementation and Coordination of programs supported by various donors. This role requires strong leadership to ensure that the programs achieve their intended impact and that all stakeholders work efficiently together. The Director will oversee the delivery of high-quality programming and reporting, maintain relationships with donors, and support the identification of new funding opportunities. The position demands a strategic vision for humanitarian response in DRC, aligning with the Humanitarian Response Plan and seeking opportunities for program expansion.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Emergency Programs Director will maintain Mercy Corps' position in humanitarian response by leading the implementation of the humanitarian strategy, overseeing project start-ups, and ensuring effective learning and adaptive management. Responsibilities include guiding the development of implementation plans, ensuring beneficiary targeting, supporting technical teams in integrating Community Participation and protection approaches, and ensuring compliance with Program Management standards. The Director will also manage stakeholder communications, represent Mercy Corps in external forums, and oversee program partnerships. Team management responsibilities include fostering a respectful work environment, supporting team development, and ensuring effective recruitment and training of staff. Additionally, the Director will ensure proper Financial Management and compliance with policies and regulations, and maintain security procedures for team members.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an MA/S or equivalent experience in international development, management, humanitarian response, or a related field, with a preference for an MA/S degree. A minimum of 7 to 10 years of experience in international relief and development program management is required, including at least 5 years in a senior management role. Experience managing Humanitarian Assistance projects in developing countries, particularly in insecure settings, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to build relationships with governments, donors, and local organizations, and have experience with programmatic and Financial Reporting requirements, particularly with BHA, FCDO, and ECHO.

Educational Background:
The position requires a Master's degree or equivalent experience in a relevant field such as international development, management, or humanitarian response. A preference is given to candidates with advanced degrees.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have at least 7 to 10 years of experience in international relief and development program management, with a focus on emergency and recovery program management. At least 5 years of experience in a senior management role is required, along with experience managing multi-sectoral programs in developing countries, particularly in insecure settings. Previous experience working in consortiums or with international sub-grantees is preferred, as is a combination of direct and Remote Management experience.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French is required, with excellent verbal and written communication skills in both languages. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is unaccompanied and based in Goma, DRC, with travel required up to 25% of the time to program areas within North Kivu and Ituri. Living conditions in Goma are generally comfortable, but water and electricity can be unstable. The role involves working in a sometimes volatile security environment, and candidates must be adaptable to changing conditions. Mercy Corps promotes ongoing learning and encourages team members to dedicate time to personal and professional growth. The organization is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and does not tolerate discrimination of any kind.