Country Director

Are you a strategic thinker, a relationship-building leader, good at networking, and do you want to drive impactful change in one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable communities?

About the job
As Country Director in Sudan you have a pivotal leadership role responsible for positioning the Danish Refugee Council (DRC) as a key player nationally and regionally, fostering strong relationships with authorities, donors, partners, and stakeholders.

DRC Sudan is responding to the deepening humanitarian crisis in Sudan at a time where access constraints are growing with a response centered on providing integrated first line protection assistance to displacement-affected populations to meet basic needs. DRC has been working in Sudan for 20 years and has developed long-standing relationships with key stakeholders – especially in Central Darfur. DRC co-leads the Protection Cluster and participates in other key coordination fora (INGO Forum Steering Committee) and Humanitarian Access Working Group. DRC is currently responding in Khartoum, Central Darfur, South Kordofan, While Nile, Al Gezirah, Gedaref and South Darfur with plans to extend the response into new underserved and hard-to-reach areas.

Your main duties and responsibilities will be:

• Direct managerial oversight and support for SMT and ensure clear and realistic performance goals
• Lead in country actionable fundraising strategy, in conjunction with the Head of Programme lead team in writing concepts, proposals and budgets
• Lead on advocacy for all DRC key messages;
• Accountable for ensuring that the programme is delivered in a safe and secure manner;
• Together with the Head of Support Services, provide overall budget monitoring, financial management and expenses control including compliance with minimum DRC and donor requirements and ensuring that necessary systems are in place;
• Manage the resources allocated effectively and transparently by respecting and meeting all legal requirements in country;
• Together with the Head of Programme, lead the development and update of the programme strategy, within DRC’s overall regional and global strategic frameworks;
• Continuously monitor and develop relevant accountability initiatives in the field as well as strengthening the effort to document the impact of activities and our presence

About you

You are a visionary leader with extensive experience in managing large-scale humanitarian or development programs, exceptional strategic thinking, and a proven track record in fundraising and advocacy. You possess strong interpersonal and negotiation skills, a deep commitment to accountability, and the ability to inspire teams to achieve ambitious goals in challenging environments.

Required

• Bachelor's degree in political science, international development, economics or other relevant field.
• At least four years experience in a senior leadership role;
• Experience in managing staff in insecure/stressful locations;
• Experience with conflict related displacement issues;
• Experience of managing budgets and multiple donor contracts;
• Proven communicator with all types of stakeholders; and
• knowledge of quality assurance systems

Desirable

• Experience working in the East Africa and/or Horn of Africa
• Proficiency in English required; while other regional languages are beneficial

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: You uphold and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to our values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.

We offer
Contract length: One year

Band: D

Work location: Port Sudan
Designation of Duty Station: Non-family Duty Station

Start date: As soon as possible

Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Council’s Terms of Employment for expatriate or national; please refer to drc.ngo under Vacancies.

Application process
All 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: 12 January 2025

For more information about the Danish Refugee Council, please visit our website drc.ngo.

Danish Refugee Council is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and positive work environment based on mutual respect for all employees. All applicants are considered for employment regardless of personal characteristics or attributes.

Department:

Location: Port Sudan