Head of Programme

Danish Refugee Council, one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, is currently looking for a highly qualified Head of Programme in Beirut, Lebanon.

Operating since 2004 in Lebanon, DRC is delivering humanitarian programming in Akkar, Baalbek-Hermel, Bekaa, Beirut – Mount Lebanon, North Lebanon and South Lebanon governorates through direct implementation and partnership modalities. DRC operates through an integrated response strengthening protection, economic recovery, and supporting accountability and effectiveness of the humanitarian response through coordination and analysis of referrals under DRC’s Referral Information Management System (RIMS). in 2021, DRC is looking into Youth and Social cohesion to develop further its programming.

Under the supervision of the Country Director, the Head of Programme is responsible for the DRC programme in Lebanon in terms of setting the main strategic directions, ensuring appropriate fundraising is available, development of the programme reach, proposal writing, quality support and control, monitoring and evaluation of implementation, reporting and representation. The Head of Programme is given a delegated authority and responsibility for all issues pertaining to day-to-day operationalisation of programme activities and budgets, in accordance with DRC country strategies, plans and policies.

About the job

The Head of Programme provides leadership in the design and delivery of the DRC Lebanon programme. The Head of Programme is responsible for the quality of programme delivery. S/he supports the development of in country expertise in each sector as well as supporting the staff capacity building agenda. Overall, the Head of Programme has responsibility for ensuring that programmes are well designed, are donor compliant and respect DRC accountability principles (CHS).

Your main duties and responsibilities will be:

• Programme Strategy - Lead on overall programme strategy development for the country programme and support technical leads to develop national thematic strategies.
   
• Fundraising, programme development, proposal writing and reporting -  Lead on fundraising and programme development with the programme coordinators and specialist as well as field teams and support proposal development processes led by the grants department. Ensure that all internal and external reports are provided in a timely fashion in collaboration with relevant staff.
   
• Programme Management - Oversee the grants management unit in monitoring timely implementation of programme and spending of budgets.
   
• Monitoring and implementation - Support the MEAL unit in developing and maintaining relevant MEAL tools and systems, internal mechanisms for institutional learning and memory. Improve the quality of services provided, through supervision of key staff, analysis and dissemination of MEAL data and lessons learnt, and review of DRC and other best practice guidelines.
   
• Technical support - Oversee the programme team focal points in the provision of technical support tailored to the needs of the field bases (development and roll out of standard operating procedures, manuals, guidelines, trainings, regular coordination, field visits etc.). Ensure Information Managements systems and resources are set up and functional. 
   
• Representation - Attend relevant national meetings in coordination with the CD; with Government partners, regional and local authorities; donors; national level working groups, LHIF, local agencies etc. at all levels of project implementation as required. Be the main interface with DRC HQ and Regional offices for programme issues.
   
• Finance and administration – Oversee the process of coordination between programme teams and DRC’s support services to ensure that budgets are designed in accordance with needs. Ensure that expenditure are planned and properly managed. Manage DRC programme staff and ensure that all staff have relevant work plan, job description and that performance reviews take place. Ensure that DRC management principles are disseminated and adequately applied.
   
• Communication and Advocacy - Support the advocacy and communications specialist in the development of advocacy and communications products related to the programme

About you

To be successful in this role we expect you to possess the following:

Required

• University degree with advanced training/courses either in management, international relations, development studies, or other related field
• At least 7 years of international experience in an INGO Senior Management Position, with at least 5 years of experience in complex emergencies;
• At least 2 years management experience in large scale programmes;
• Proven experience in strategic development and program design, planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation;
• Experience in livelihoods, housing/infrastructure, protection, direct assistance and relief highly desired;
• Experience with range of donors including DANIDA, UNHCR, EU, ECHO, WFP and UNICEF;
• Experience in working with national NGO partners and local/government authorities;
• Results-oriented management experience of a large, diverse and dynamic team, and a commitment to good leadership essential;
• Practical and proven skills in negotiation and conflict resolution with a wide range of stakeholders essential. Knowledge of refugee issues and related policies desired;
• Analytical and problem solving skills and an ability to work independently and as a team needed.
• Fluent in English, spoken and written

Desirable

• Arabic is an advantage

In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRC’ five core competencies: 

Striving for excellence: You focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process.  
Collaborating: You involve relevant parties and encourage feedback. 
Taking the lead: You take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation. 
Communicating: You listen and speak effectively and honestly. 
Demonstrating integrity: Upholding and promoting the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to DRC’s values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.

We offer

Contract length: 24 months

Level: Senior Management, E

Designation of Duty Station: Beirut, with frequent travel to the field l Non-family duty station.

Start date: 17 August 2021

Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for Expatriates. For questions regarding the vacancy please contact Country Director Rickard Hartmann, rickard.hartmann@drc.ngo.

Application process

Applicants must upload a cover letter and an updated CV (no longer than four pages) in English. Applications sent by email will not be considered.

Closing date for applications: 10 May

For further information about the Danish Refugee Council, please consult our website drc.ngo.