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Home Jobs Nairobi Director of Global Programs and Surge Operations

Director of Global Programs and Surge Operations

International Rescue Committee  · NGO / Non-Profit Associations

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 27 August 2026
Posted June 2, 2026

We are seeking a highly motivated candidate to fill the position with [Job Title]. The ideal applicant will possess a [specific degree or certification, if applicable], along with [X years] of relevant experience in [industry/field]. Proficiency in [specific software, tools, or methodologies] is essential, and familiarity with [additional skills or requirements] is strongly preferred. Key responsibilities include [outline main duties, e.g., managing projects, developing strategies, or analyzing data], with a strong emphasis on [specific outcome or focus area]. The role demands exceptional organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment. Additional requirements may include [mention any relevant certifications, clearances, or physical demands].

The Deputy Director for Programs, Global Surge (DDP) assumes a pivotal leadership role, driving strategic decision-making and fostering seamless coordination on programmatic matters—such as crafting high-quality proposals and ensuring the successful execution of IRC’s initiatives. This position demands the ability to inspire and guide a multifaceted team, coupled with strong competencies in program management, stakeholder engagement, and fiscal oversight.

This role operates under the supervision of the Country Director and serves as a key contributor to the Country Management Team. The incumbent will provide direct oversight to Technical Coordinators, the Senior Program Coordinator overseeing protection sectors, and the Senior Coordinator responsible for Grants & Accountability. Collaboration will be essential with the Deputy Regional Director and other regional support team members, as well as Technical Advisors who assist the country program.

Oversee and execute a comprehensive range of critical duties, ensuring alignment with organizational objectives and industry standards. Develop, implement, and monitor strategic initiatives to drive operational excellence, efficiency, and innovation. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to optimize workflows, resolve complex challenges, and achieve measurable performance targets. Maintain rigorous adherence to compliance, quality assurance, and risk management protocols while fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Drives strategic initiatives and business expansion efforts through meticulous planning and development activities. Responsible for identifying growth opportunities, analyzing market trends, and formulating long-term business strategies. Collaborates with cross-functional teams to align objectives, optimize resources, and ensure sustainable competitive advantage. Manages stakeholder relationships, negotiates partnerships, and evaluates performance metrics to refine approaches. Requires expertise in market research, financial modeling, and strategic foresight to support data-driven decision-making.

In collaboration with the Country Director, spearhead the formulation and execution of the IRC Strategy Action Plan (SAP).

Ensure that programming efforts are in harmony with SAP priorities and IRC’s Outcome Strategies, encompassing program planning, project design, and internal communications with staff.

Developing and securing funding for programs are essential duties of this role. Responsibilities include designing, implementing, and overseeing initiatives while identifying and pursuing diverse funding opportunities. This position requires strong strategic planning, grant writing expertise, and the ability to cultivate donor relationships to ensure sustainable program growth. Candidates must demonstrate a proven track record in program development and fundraising, along with exceptional communication and project management skills.

In collaboration with the Grants lead and Country Director, develop and execute the Country Business Development Plan, integrating comprehensive donor mapping and strategic communication strategies.

The Grants and MEAL leads receive dedicated support to facilitate the creation of high-quality, needs-based project proposals that strictly align with regulatory requirements and the established parameters of the SAP.

To maintain alignment with organizational timelines, oversee program teams in meeting internal deadlines for the submission of concept notes, proposals, and donor reports. Verify that all program inputs conform to specified formatting requirements and uphold the established quality standards.

Ensure that gender equality remains a central consideration in both the design and execution of IRC’s programs.

Program Implementation

Ensure the systematic review and updating of the Systems Stakeholder Analysis, utilizing the findings to guide partner selection decisions.

Demonstrate a comprehensive grasp of the current status and advancement of IRC program implementations.

Chair project cycle meetings with a focus on data-driven insights, encompassing spending oversight. Implement corrective actions as needed to guarantee projects meet deadlines and targets, and ensure prompt follow-up on all agreed-upon actions.

Provide comprehensive assistance to Technical Coordinators in maintaining project delivery aligned with well-defined work-plans and approved monitoring strategies, as outlined in the project proposals.

Ensure program teams collaborate with Field Management Teams and Operations functions to create, execute, and adjust detailed Procurement and Staffing Plans as needed.

Offer precise and current guidance to the CD regarding advancements and prospects in program execution, along with any essential recommendations for adjustments.

Provide assistance to the MEAL lead in executing key priorities outlined in the MEAL strategy.

Leverage data collected via MEAL systems and client feedback mechanisms to guide every phase of the project lifecycle.

Ensure that program teams submit accurate and punctual reports to the grants team in accordance with IRC and donor-established guidelines.

Monitor program delivery by conducting regular field visits and review sessions. Verify that senior program staff frequently visit project sites to oversee implementation progress and address any operational challenges promptly.

Ensure emergency preparedness by collaborating with other functional leads to facilitate swift and effective emergency response when required.

The position involves leading and developing staff teams, ensuring optimal performance and growth. Responsibilities include mentoring employees, providing training opportunities, and fostering a collaborative work environment. Key requirements include strong leadership skills, experience in team management, and the ability to drive professional development initiatives.

At all times, oversee the consistent application of People & Culture policies and procedures in team management activities.

Offer guidance and mentorship to team members, fostering their professional growth while establishing transparent performance expectations and providing strong leadership.

Conduct regular, high-quality performance discussions and evaluations with all program staff to assess their contributions and foster professional growth.

Organize consistent check-ins with team members to foster effective communication and enhance collaborative efforts.

Ensure that all reports consistently align with and reinforce the development objectives set for their respective teams.

Representation and Coordination

Consistently and strategically engage with an extensive network of partners across the country to foster and maintain robust professional relationships.

Ensure that IRC’s interventions are strategically planned and effectively coordinated as part of the wider humanitarian response.

Ensure IRC’s active participation in sector coordination groups, such as the clusters, to enhance our representation and collaboration within the humanitarian field.

Assist in fostering and sustaining strong, collaborative ties with donors and governmental associates to ensure mutual understanding and continued support.

We are seeking a highly skilled Partner Management professional to oversee and cultivate strategic relationships with key partners, ensuring mutual growth and alignment with organizational objectives. The ideal candidate will possess a proven track record in partner development, negotiation, and collaboration, with the ability to identify new partnership opportunities and drive revenue through joint initiatives. Responsibilities include managing partner onboarding, performance tracking, and providing ongoing support to maximize partner success. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the capacity to analyze market trends and align partner strategies with business goals. A bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or a related field is required, and prior experience in a partner management or business development role is preferred.

Provide assistance to the Country Program in fulfilling its obligations to broaden local collaborations.

Forge and sustain productive partnerships with key stakeholders, ensuring seamless collaboration and alignment of objectives. Establish strong, mutually beneficial relationships with partners to drive joint initiatives and achieve shared goals. Maintain regular communication and engagement to foster trust, transparency, and accountability in all interactions.

Provide ongoing technical program assistance and collaborate with partners to allocate resources in alignment with established partnership agreements.

Requirements

A strong candidate will possess exceptional leadership, team management, interpersonal, and negotiation abilities, along with a proven track record in fostering collaborative teams within diverse, multicultural settings that demand cultural awareness. Additionally, the ideal candidate will demonstrate strategic thinking, the capacity to prioritize effectively, and a commitment to achieving goals efficiently in high-pressure, multifaceted environments.

Hold an advanced degree in International Development, International Relations, Business Management, or a closely related field.

Demonstrates a proven track record with five to six years of overseas expertise in conflict or post-conflict settings, alongside a history of leading impactful programs.

Seasoned professionals should possess a proven track record in designing programs, implementing MEAL frameworks, and overseeing the entire project cycle, including the development and tracking of budgets, work plans, and other essential program management tools.

Proven ability to effectively coordinate with, network among, and cultivate strong relationships with essential partners such as government entities, donors, international non-governmental organizations (NGOs), national and local organizations, and UN agencies.

Fluency in English is essential, along with strong oral and written communication abilities. Proficiency in French, Spanish, and/or Arabic, while not mandatory, is highly advantageous.

Highly motivated, dependable, and accountable professionals with exceptional attention to detail are sought, capable of thriving in dynamic environments while demonstrating adaptability and flexibility.

Proven capability to operate autonomously as well as collaborate effectively within a team environment.

Able to function effectively and maintain a positive mindset in high-pressure, emergency situations. Open to relocating to and working in remote or conflict-ridden regions.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

5 - 6 years

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