Education: Master’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field.

About the Job

The Danish Refugee Council (DRC), one of the world’s leading humanitarian NGOs, is seeking a highly qualified Area Manager for its operations in Mekelle, North Ethiopia Region (Tigray and Afar).

This position has been reposted, and qualified applicants are strongly encouraged to apply again.

The Area Manager is responsible for the overall management and strategic direction of DRC’s operations in the North Ethiopia Region under the supervision of the Head of Operations. The role oversees program implementation, supports staff, fosters positive relations with key stakeholders, ensures compliance with DRC and donor policies, and promotes accountability, transparency, and operational excellence.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Lead the strategic development of the Area Office in consultation with the Senior Management Team (SMT).
• Ensure DRC activities remain relevant and responsive to the needs of affected populations.
• Coordinate and integrate DRC’s activities, including protection, WASH, economic recovery, and peacebuilding.
• Represent DRC in relevant forums, ensuring strong relationships with government, donors, and partners.
• Contribute to the overall strategic direction and planning at the country level.

Program and Technical Oversight

• Ensure all projects comply with DRC and donor regulations, humanitarian standards, and project cycle management.
• Oversee project design, implementation, and reporting, ensuring high-quality outputs and timely delivery.
• Support program leads in planning, budgeting, and monitoring progress.
• Lead project proposal development and ensure alignment with DRC’s country strategy.
• Promote accountability through community feedback mechanisms and monitoring systems.

Support Services Management

• Supervise recruitment, HR, logistics, finance, and administration at the Area Office level.
• Ensure staff capacity development, performance management, and adherence to DRC policies.
• Oversee financial management, budget monitoring, and donor reporting.
• Coordinate procurement and supply chain processes in compliance with DRC standards.
• Support IT, communication, and office operations effectively.

Safety and Security

• Ensure DRC safety protocols are implemented and updated regularly.
• Monitor the security situation and coordinate with the country office for risk management.
• Promote staff safety awareness and maintain secure operational systems.

Experience and Technical Competencies

• Minimum 6 years of experience in a senior management role in humanitarian or development organizations.
• Proven experience managing complex programs in conflict or post-conflict settings.
• Strong background in protection, emergency response, fundraising, and proposal development.
• Experience in safety and security management in high-risk environments.
• Demonstrated leadership, strategic thinking, and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, representation, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and meet tight deadlines.

Education

• Master’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field.

Language

• Fluency in written and spoken English required.
• Knowledge of local languages is an asset.

Core Competencies (DRC Values)

1. Striving for Excellence: Focus on achieving results efficiently.
2. Collaborating: Promote teamwork and open communication.
3. Taking the Lead: Show initiative and responsibility.
4. Communicating: Speak and listen effectively.
5. Demonstrating Integrity: Uphold DRC’s ethical and professional standards.

What We Offer

• Contract Length: 12 Months
• Contract Type: International or National
• Duty Station: Mekelle (Non-Accompanied)
• Salary and benefits according to DRC’s Terms of Employment for Expat/National staff.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit:

• A cover letter and an updated CV (maximum 4 pages) in English.
• Applications must be submitted online only through DRC’s recruitment portal.
• Applications sent by email will not be considered.
• Closing Date: October 17, 2025

Apply Now