The Country Director for Somalia at the International Rescue Committee (IRC) provides strategic leadership and operational oversight for the country program. Based in Nairobi, this role is responsible for maintaining strong representation with Somalia Government authorities, international donors, and local partners. The Country Director sets the strategic vision, ensures program quality, manages safety and security, and fosters a culture of operational excellence and safeguarding.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Representation
- Lead the country program by maintaining open and professional relations with colleagues and promoting a strong team spirit.
- Develop and carry out strategies for strong representation with Somalia Government authorities and major donors (OFDA, DFID, ECHO, UNICEF, etc.).
- Ensure the IRC remains a partner of choice for major international donors and maintain a high level of understanding of donor priorities.
- Initiate and sustain authentic partnerships with Somalia-based organizations.
- Play a leadership role in improving humanitarian response coordination in Somalia.
Strategic Direction and Program Quality
- Set the strategic vision and direction of the country program to serve more people with high-quality programming.
- Align programming with the country program strategy action plan and technical standards.
- Ensure program quality through rigorous assessment, design, monitoring, evaluation, and learning systems.
- Identify opportunities for appropriate expansion and growth of programs.
Safety and Security Management
- Take primary responsibility for the overall management of safety and security for the country program.
- Oversee the management of all security issues and maintain a culture of safety and security through training and briefings.
- Keep security, evacuation, and contingency plans current and accessible.
Staff Performance Management and Development
- Supervise and mentor direct reports, setting clear performance objectives and providing regular feedback.
- Oversee the management and development of national and international staff to build a skilled, motivated cadre.
- Promote staff care and well-being, modeling healthy work-life balance practices.
- Implement recruitment and retention strategies in coordination with regional HR.
Stewardship and Operational Management
- Drive operational excellence to achieve optimal efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
- Oversee the utilization of financial and operational policies to deliver compliance with IRC and donor requirements.
- Provide timely and effective oversight of the country program’s financial position and budget monitoring.
Safeguarding & PSEA Accountability
- Champion a culture of zero tolerance for Sexual Exploitation, Abuse, and Harassment (SEAH).
- Ensure functional safeguarding reporting pathways for staff and clients.
- Oversee training, compliance monitoring, and survivor-centered responses.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the International Rescue Committee career portal. You can find the application link at https://www.myjobmag.co.ke/apply-now/1204461, which will redirect you to the official recruitment page on theirc.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com.
