Program Manager (m/f/d), Syria

The German Red Cross (GRC) is part of a worldwide community assisting victims of conflicts and disasters and people affected by social or health related crises. The Red Cross / Red Crescent Movement provides vulnerable people with assistance without discrimination as to nationality, race, religious beliefs, class, or political opinions and adheres to the seven Fundamental Principles of the Movement: Humanity, Impartiality, Neutrality, Independence, Voluntary Service, Unity, and Universality. The German Red Cross aims to assist its Sister National Societies to be prepared for and adequately respond to crises and shocks. The specific mandate of the Sister National Society and its strategic vision for its fulfilment are basis of our global engagement.

GRC is currently seeking an experienced Program Manager (m/f/d) responsible for implementing the joint program of GRC and the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC). GRC supports SARC through programs, exchange of expert knowledge as well as technical and managerial support. Currently, the programmatic focus of GRC is on humanitarian relief, (medical) logistics and Health (Community based Health and First Aid and Reproductive, maternal, new-born and child health) funded by the German Federal Foreign Office and ECHO. GRC has a longstanding cooperation with SARC and is present in country with three delegates, including a Head of office, a Program Manager and a Logistics Coordinator as well as a local Project Coordinator. The GRC office is within the premises of SARC HQ.
This is an unaccompanied position.

Starting date: 01.01.2023
Duration: 24 months with possible extension

Location: Damascus with travel to other areas of Syria

Main duties & responsibilities:

• Ensure support, guidance, and quality control for the planning, implementation and MEAL of all activities and program components.
• Jointly with the SARC, adjust and implement the relief activities of the response program in Syria according to the needs and vulnerabilities.
• Provide regular project reports for internal and external use, including visibility in the project activities.
• Ensure that project funds are being used and reported against in compliance GRC and donor guidelines.
• Represent the GRC in meetings and networks with partners and stakeholders.
• Coordinate and collaborate with other movement partners as well as all relevant humanitarian and other actors.
• Develop new project concept notes/proposals and contribute to the application process to various donors
• Support the GRC Head of Office in tasks related to the GRC operations, strategy, security and human resources management according to need.

Required Competencies & Skills:

• At least 3 years’ experience in the field of emergency relief, humanitarian assistance, and/or recovery, with particular focus on community-based integrated programming.
• Excellent project and budget management skills and experience in relevant sectors / response modalities e.g. disaster risk reduction, capacity building
• Health background is a strong asset.
• Proven Experience working with local partners.
• Proven Experience in MEAL and reporting, beneficiary communication, complaint mechanisms, beneficiary selection.
• Excellent communication skills, problem-solving skills, and intercultural sensitivity, including managing expectations of different stakeholders in a balanced and diplomatic manner.
• Previous experience of working for the Red Cross / Red Crescent Movement is an asset.
• Willingness to work in a complex, insecure and dynamic environment and acceptance of the risks associated with this mission.
• Experience in working with different donors (preferably German Ministries, ECHO, etc.).
• Oral and written fluency in English is a requirement; German and/or Arabic is a strong asset.
• Ability to work independently and as a team member with high cultural sensitivity, underpinned by substantial working experience in foreign contexts.
• Ability and agreement to adhere to the Red Cross Red Crescent Fundamental Principles.
• Ability to complete a thorough medical screening process ‘working abroad under specific climate and health conditions’.
• Valid Driving Licence.

What we offer you:

You will be part of a highly motivated professional and multicultural team. We offer you a compensation package according to the collective employment agreement of the GRC, an expatriation allowance during your mission as well as the accommodation. In addition to a full insurance package GRC is covering a home flight within a 12-months period of assignment. You will benefit from a comprehensive training package and receive briefings and coaching prior as well as during and after your mission. Medical check-ups and Psychosocial Support Service are included in your assignment.