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Home Jobs Nairobi Global Deputy Director of Program Surge

Global Deputy Director of Program Surge

International Rescue Committee  · NGO / Non-Profit Associations

Full Time Nairobi
Nairobi
Deadline: 27 August 2026
Posted May 29, 2026

Job Description:

The Deputy Director for Programs, Global Surge (DDP) spearheads strategic leadership, decisive action, and cross-functional coordination on all programmatic matters, encompassing the crafting of high-quality proposals and the oversight of IRC’s program implementation efficiency. The ideal candidate will demonstrate the ability to inspire and guide a multicultural team, alongside adeptly managing programs, fostering strategic partnerships, and overseeing financial resources.

This role operates under the supervision of the Country Director (CD) and serves as a key contributor to the Country Management Team. The Deputy Director of Programs (DDP) oversees Technical Coordinators, the Senior Program Coordinator for protection sectors, and the Senior Coordinator overseeing Grants & Accountability. Collaboration will extend to the Deputy Regional Director, regional support team members, and Technical Advisors who enhance the country program’s operations.

Oversee a comprehensive range of critical duties, including but not limited to project management, team coordination, and strategic planning. Collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders to align objectives and ensure seamless execution of initiatives. Monitor performance metrics, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions as needed. Lead by example, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and continuous growth within the team. Responsibilities may also extend to budget oversight, resource allocation, and risk assessment to drive organizational success. Ensure compliance with industry regulations and company policies while maintaining a high standard of operational excellence.

We develop and implement strategic initiatives, drive business growth, and optimize operational planning to align with long-term organizational objectives. This role involves identifying new market opportunities, fostering partnerships, and analyzing industry trends to enhance competitive positioning. Key responsibilities include crafting business development strategies, conducting feasibility studies, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to execute expansion plans. Candidates must possess strong analytical skills, a results-driven mindset, and prior experience in business development or strategic planning. Proficiency in market research, financial modeling, and stakeholder management is essential for success in this position.

Collaborating closely with the Country Director, oversee the formulation and execution of the IRC Strategy Action Plan to drive organizational objectives forward.

Ensure that all programming efforts align with SAP’s strategic priorities and IRC’s Outcome Strategies, encompassing comprehensive program planning, robust project design, and effective communication with the staff.

Program Development and Fundraising professionals are responsible for designing, implementing, and overseeing initiatives that align with organizational goals while securing essential financial resources. They cultivate relationships with donors, grant makers, and stakeholders to ensure sustainable funding streams and maximize philanthropic support. Additionally, they monitor program performance, evaluate outcomes, and adapt strategies to enhance impact and efficiency. Strong leadership, strategic thinking, and exceptional communication skills are essential for success in this role.

Collaborating closely with the Grants Lead and Country Director, develop and execute the Country Business Development Plan, integrating comprehensive donor mapping and strategic communication strategies.

The incumbent will provide assistance to the Grants Lead and MEAL Lead, ensuring that project proposals are meticulously crafted to meet high-quality standards and align with specific needs while adhering to regulatory requirements and the established parameters of the SAP.

To guarantee that program teams comply with established internal timelines for delivering their inputs on concept notes, proposals, and donor reports, oversee the submission of program materials to ensure they meet the specified format and quality standards.

Committed to embedding IRC’s commitment to gender equality throughout all phases of program design and execution.

Program execution involves the development and deployment of projects from inception to completion. This encompasses planning, resource allocation, and progress tracking to ensure timely and efficient delivery. Responsibilities include coordinating with stakeholders, managing budgets, and adhering to established timelines. A strong understanding of project management principles and the ability to troubleshoot challenges are essential. Familiarity with industry-specific tools and methodologies is also required.

To maintain the integrity and relevance of the Systems Stakeholder Analysis, conduct a thorough, ongoing review and periodic updates. Leverage the refined insights to strategically guide partner selection decisions, ensuring alignment with evolving operational and organizational objectives.

Possess a thorough comprehension of the advancement of IRC programs to ensure their effective implementation, tracking progress with precision and providing timely updates as needed.

Chair data-driven project cycle meetings, including, but not limited, to monitoring spending. When required, coordinate corrective measures to ensure projects finish on time and on target, ensure timely follow up on any agreed actions

Assist Technical Coordinators by providing structured work plans and approved monitoring frameworks derived from project proposals to facilitate timely and effective project execution.

Program teams are responsible for creating, executing, and updating Procurement and Staffing Plans as necessary, with these plans being developed in collaboration with Field Management Teams and Operations functions.

Deliver precise and current guidance to the CD regarding emerging developments and opportunities in program implementation, alongside any required recommendations for adjustments to ensure alignment with objectives.

Collaborate closely with the MEAL lead to advance the strategic priorities outlined within the MEAL framework.

Ensure that information gathered through Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) processes and client feedback channels is systematically integrated to guide every phase of the project lifecycle.

To guarantee that program teams deliver accurate and timely reports to the grants team in accordance with IRC and donor requirements.

Monitor program delivery by conducting regular field visits and review sessions. Consistently verify that senior program staff are visiting project sites to oversee implementation progress.

Oversee emergency preparedness initiatives in collaboration with functional leads to facilitate rapid and effective emergency response as needed.

Dynamic professionals are sought to spearhead leadership initiatives and cultivate team capabilities within our organization. This pivotal role demands a strategic approach to mentoring high-potential employees, refining talent management strategies, and fostering an environment that encourages continuous growth and innovation. Candidates must exhibit exceptional interpersonal skills, a proven track record in coaching and development, and the ability to align individual aspirations with organizational objectives. Responsibilities include designing and implementing leadership training programs, assessing performance metrics to identify skill gaps, and collaborating with senior management to create succession plans that ensure long-term organizational success.

Maintain strict adherence to People & Culture policies and procedures in all aspects of team management.

Offer guidance, mentorship, and leadership while establishing transparent performance objectives for team members.

Conduct periodic, high-quality performance discussions and evaluations for all program staff to ensure consistent and meaningful assessments of their contributions.

Schedule routine gatherings with team members to facilitate the exchange of critical information and strengthen collaboration among colleagues.

Verify the alignment of all reports to collectively reinforce and advance the team’s developmental objectives, ensuring consistency and mutual reinforcement in goal attainment.

Responsible for representing the organization and ensuring seamless coordination among various departments and stakeholders, this role involves liaising with clients, partners, and internal teams to facilitate effective communication and alignment of objectives. The position requires exceptional interpersonal skills, a strong understanding of organizational processes, and the ability to manage multiple priorities while maintaining clarity and consistency in all interactions. Key responsibilities include building and maintaining professional relationships, resolving conflicts, and ensuring that all parties are informed and aligned with the company’s goals and initiatives.

Proactively, consistently, and methodically engage with a diverse range of partners within the country.

Ensure that IRC’s interventions are strategically integrated and synchronized with the wider humanitarian response framework.

Ensure IRC’s presence at sector coordination gatherings, such as cluster meetings, to actively contribute to collaborative discussions and decision-making processes.

Foster strong, enduring connections with donors and government counterparts to ensure mutual trust and collaboration.

You will be responsible for cultivating and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with key partners to drive mutual growth and success. This role involves identifying partnership opportunities, negotiating agreements, and ensuring alignment with business objectives. Additionally, you will monitor partner performance, address any issues promptly, and foster open communication channels to strengthen long-term collaborations. Strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and a results-driven mindset are essential for this position.

Assist the Country Program in fulfilling its commitments by enhancing local partnerships.

Foster and sustain productive collaborative partnerships with key stakeholders to ensure alignment and mutual success.

Deliver consistent technical program support in alignment with partnership agreements, while allocating resources collaboratively with partners.

Requirements

We require strong leadership, people management, interpersonal, and negotiation skills, along with a proven ability to build collaborative teams in a multicultural setting that demands cultural awareness. Additionally, we seek a candidate capable of strategic thinking, effective prioritization, and timely goal achievement within a challenging environment.

Obtained a graduate degree in International Development, International Relations, Business Management, Administrative Science, or a comparable field.

Demonstrates a strong professional history, featuring five to six years of overseas experience in conflict or post-conflict settings, during which program leadership responsibilities were effectively executed.

With a proven track record in program design, MEAL, and project cycle management, candidates should possess expertise in developing and monitoring budgets, work plans, and other essential program management tools.

Proven ability to effectively coordinate initiatives, cultivate robust networks, and foster strong partnerships with critical stakeholders, including government entities, donors, international non-governmental organizations, national and local organizations, as well as United Nations agencies.

Fluency in English is essential, complemented by exceptional oral and written communication abilities. A working knowledge of French, Spanish, and/or Arabic is highly advantageous.

A highly motivated and reliable individual, characterized by exceptional integrity, strong sense of responsibility, keen attention to detail, and the ability to adapt and remain flexible in dynamic environments.

Skilled at functioning autonomously as well as collaborating effectively within a group setting.

Able to thrive in emergency settings while preserving a positive mindset, with a readiness to travel to remote and conflict-affected regions.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

5 - 6 years

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