Head of Programmes, DCA Iraq

DanChurchAid (DCA) invites applications for an experienced Head of Programmes (HoP) for its Iraq Country Programme. The position is based in Erbil, Iraq and is a non-accompanied position.

DCA has been supporting humanitarian activities implemented by Iraqi partners since 2017. DCA aims to mitigate the consequences of conflict and displacement by contributing to recovery and enhanced resilience of the most vulnerable. The programme is protection-focused with an emphasis on Humanitarian Mine Action, psycho-social support, and community-based initiatives. Most programming in Iraq is done through partnerships with local or national NGOs and includes comprehensive capacity building components.

The HoP position is an integral part of the in-country Senior Management Team, and responsible for the coordination of all departments and donor-funded projects across a range of sectors. Key tasks include project design, development of concept notes, proposals and donor reports, and assistance to the Country Director (CD) with strategy development, ensuring programme synergies and relevance in a volatile context.

You will be working closely with civil society organizations (CSOs) and a range of external stakeholders to reach populations in need, strengthen the resilience of conflict- and climate affected populations, and help build the programme portfolio of DCA in Iraq and its diverse group of strong, national partners. We are therefore looking for candidates with experience in building and maintaining equitable and respectful partnerships, as well as technical competencies in writing proposals related to Protection, Food Security and Livelihood, and climate resilience/adaptation.

With this position, you will have the opportunity to shape a technical team focused on delivering high quality partnership-based interventions, while at the same time driving forward DCA’s agenda as a leading actor on localization in Iraq. The role is well suited for dynamic and highly motivated candidates, who are passionate about supporting and enhancing local capacity and seeking a lasting impact in a collaborative, supportive, and innovative atmosphere.

The main duties relating to this position are:

• Ensure all programmes meet technical minimum standards, introduce best practice, and seek areas for innovative and holistic programming towards long-term impact
• Establish and/or strengthen relationships with DCA’s current partners, local CSOs and other stakeholders in Iraq
• Coordinate with relevant humanitarian for a and coordination bodies, international NGOs, UN agencies, donors, national and local authorities, and other stakeholders
• Support and oversee the development of strong Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning systems
• Ensure high quality donor proposals through the development of concept notes and project proposals. This includes project design and leading the development of project proposals together with colleagues in Iraq and HQ
• Take the lead on the development of timely and quality project reports to donors, in close collaboration with technical programme staff
• Recruiting, managing, and developing programme staff

The experience we’re looking for includes:

• 5 years of experience managing a programme portfolio
• Thorough knowledge of the Iraqi context
• A well-developed humanitarian toolbox with experience in Protection, Food Security and Livelihood and Climate Resilience/Adaptation (experience with HMA and Emergency Response/Preparedness an added advantage!)
• Clear understanding of the cluster system, with sector expertise particularly related to protection and conflict sensitive approaches
• Experience in a volatile and insecure context and the ability to keep a cool head under pressure. HEAT or similar training (within last two years) strongly desired
• Demonstrable project development and fundraising experience
• Sound understanding of holistic programming and using humanitarian assistance as a foundation for development initiatives and longer-term impact
• Strong analytical skills with ability to plan, coordinate and lead processes that include multiple stakeholders and interests
• Committed, flexible, results oriented and with strong interpersonal skills
• Fluency in written and spoken English

We offer:

• 12-month contract with the possibility of extension
• A competitive salary package
• 30 days of paid annual leave
• Two R&R cycles per year (subject to DCA’s Staff Welfare Policy for Erbil as a duty station)
• Insurance as per industry standards
• An interesting and challenging experience addressing humanitarian needs
• A dynamic, flexible, and respectful working environment that will give you the freedom to work and support to succeed

Closing date: 31th of October. Only online applications uploaded to DCA’s recruitment system and consisting as a minimum of a CV and a cover letter will be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

All interested candidates irrespective of age, gender, race, religion, sexual orientation, abilities, or ethnic affiliation are encouraged to apply for the vacancy. DCA conducts an anti-terror check as part of the recruitment process. It is a prerequisite that you can pass this check and maintain this status throughout your employment with us. Everyone applying for a job with DCA must be ready to comply with our Staff Policy on Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment and our Child Safeguarding Policy.

For any questions, please contact Mette Andersen [email protected].