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Home Jobs Nairobi Global Programs Deputy Director

Global Programs Deputy Director

International Rescue Committee  · NGO / Non-Profit Associations

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

We are seeking a highly motivated individual to join our team in the capacity of a [Job Title]. The ideal candidate will possess a minimum of [X] years of relevant experience in [specific field or industry] and hold a degree in [field of study], or an equivalent combination of education and professional experience. Proficiency in [specific software, tools, or technical skills] is essential, along with strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication abilities. Key responsibilities include [list key duties, e.g., “leading project teams, analyzing data, and presenting findings to stakeholders”], as well as collaborating with cross-functional departments to achieve organizational objectives. The role requires the capacity to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and adapt to evolving project demands in a fast-paced environment.

The Deputy Director for Programs, Global Surge (DDP) spearheads strategic leadership, decisive decision-making, and cross-functional coordination on critical programmatic matters, including the crafting of high-quality proposals and the supervision of IRC’s program implementation. Candidates must demonstrate the ability to inspire and guide a multicultural team, as well as proficiently oversee programs, cultivate partnerships, and administer budgets.

This role operates under the direct supervision of the Country Director and serves as a key contributor to the Country Management Team. The incumbent will oversee Technical Coordinators, the Senior Program Coordinator for protection sectors, and the Senior Coordinator for Grants & Accountability. Collaboration will extend to the Deputy Regional Director, regional support team members, and Technical Advisors providing assistance to the country program.

Oversee a comprehensive array of key responsibilities encompassing strategic planning, operational execution, and performance oversight to ensure organizational objectives are consistently achieved and exceeded. Develop and implement policies, procedures, and best practices to optimize workflow efficiency, enhance productivity, and maintain high standards of quality across all departments. Lead cross-functional teams by providing clear direction, mentoring staff, and fostering a collaborative work environment that promotes innovation, accountability, and continuous improvement. Monitor progress through data-driven metrics, adjust strategies as necessary, and report on key performance indicators to senior leadership to support informed decision-making. Ensure compliance with industry regulations, company policies, and ethical standards while mitigating risks and resolving operational challenges promptly.

Develop strategic initiatives, conduct meticulous planning, and spearhead business development efforts to drive organizational growth and enhance competitive positioning. This role requires a dynamic blend of analytical prowess, visionary thinking, and operational expertise to identify emerging opportunities, optimize resource allocation, and foster sustainable revenue streams. Key responsibilities include formulating long-term business strategies, analyzing market trends, cultivating high-value partnerships, and executing initiatives that align with the organization’s objectives. The ideal candidate will demonstrate a proven track record in business development, exceptional negotiation skills, and the ability to translate data-driven insights into actionable business strategies. Strong leadership, cross-functional collaboration, and a results-oriented mindset are essential to thrive in this position.

In collaboration with the Chief Digital Officer, spearhead the formulation and execution of the IRC Strategy Action Plan (SAP).

Ensure that programming efforts are fully aligned with SAP priorities and IRC’s Outcome Strategies, encompassing comprehensive program planning, strategic project design, and effective communication with staff members.

Develop and execute programs while spearheading fundraising initiatives to secure resources and support organizational goals.

Working in collaboration with the Grants Lead and Country Director, develop and execute the Country Business Development Plan, integrating comprehensive donor mapping and strategic communication initiatives to ensure alignment with organizational objectives.

Assist the Grants and MEAL leadership in producing high-quality, needs-based project proposals that align with regulatory requirements and fall within the established SAP parameters.

To guarantee that program teams meet established internal timelines for submitting their contributions to concept notes, proposals, and donor reports, oversight of adherence to these schedules is essential. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that all program inputs are formatted correctly and meet the specified quality standards.

The organization integrates a firm commitment to gender equality into the design and execution of all programs.

The role involves facilitating the execution and deployment of programs, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives and organizational standards. Responsibilities include overseeing the full lifecycle of program implementation, from initial planning and resource allocation to execution, monitoring, and final evaluation. Key requirements entail coordinating cross-functional teams, managing timelines, mitigating risks, and maintaining clear communication channels to stakeholders. Additionally, the position demands proficiency in program management tools, data analysis for progress tracking, and adherence to compliance protocols throughout the implementation process.

Ensure the systematic review and periodic updating of the Systems Stakeholder Analysis to maintain its accuracy and relevance, then leverage these insights to guide partner selection processes effectively.

Possess a comprehensive grasp of the advancement and execution status of IRC programs to ensure alignment with strategic objectives and operational milestones.

Facilitate data-driven project cycle meetings, encompassing monitoring of expenditures, as well as coordinating necessary corrective actions to guarantee project completion within scheduled timelines and budgetary parameters. Additionally, ensure prompt follow-up on all agreed-upon actions to maintain project momentum and accountability.

Assist Technical Coordinators in maintaining project delivery aligned with structured work plans and approved monitoring frameworks derived from project proposals.

Ensure program teams collaborate with Field Management Teams and Operations functions to develop, implement, and revise detailed Procurement Plans and Staffing Plans as necessary.

Deliver precise, current guidance on program implementation developments and opportunities, along with actionable recommendations for necessary adjustments.

Provide assistance to the MEAL lead in executing key strategic initiatives within the MEAL framework.

Leverage data derived from Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning (MEAL) systems as well as client feedback channels to guide decision-making across all phases of the project lifecycle.

Program teams must submit accurate and timely reports to the grants team, adhering strictly to IRC and donor requirements.

Monitor program delivery by conducting regular field visits and review sessions. Verify that senior program staff consistently visit project sites to assess implementation progress.

Oversee emergency preparedness initiatives in collaboration with other functional leads to facilitate prompt emergency response when required.

We are seeking a dynamic leader to oversee staff leadership and development initiatives, ensuring team growth, skill enhancement, and organizational success through strategic planning and mentorship. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in coaching and developing high-performing teams, along with experience designing and implementing training programs tailored to individual and departmental needs. Key responsibilities include fostering a culture of continuous learning, evaluating performance metrics to identify development opportunities, and collaborating with senior management to align staff capabilities with company goals. Strong interpersonal skills, the ability to inspire and motivate teams, and expertise in talent management are essential for this role.

Ensure that People & Culture policies and procedures are consistently implemented in all aspects of team management.

Deliver structured mentorship, leadership, and defined performance benchmarks to team members to foster their professional growth and alignment with organizational goals.

Conduct regular, high-quality performance discussions and evaluations with all program staff to ensure consistent assessment of their contributions.

Conduct routine meetings with team members to facilitate the exchange of critical information and foster a cohesive work environment.

Verify that all reports consistently align with and reinforce the progress toward established team development objectives.

Responsible for managing representation activities and ensuring seamless coordination among stakeholders, the ideal candidate will oversee communication channels, facilitate collaborative initiatives, and maintain consistent engagement with key partners to achieve organizational objectives efficiently.

Consistently and strategically engage with a diverse range of partners across the country on an ongoing basis to foster strong relationships and facilitate collaboration.

To coordinate and plan IRC’s interventions as part of the broader humanitarian response.

Responsible for serving as the IRC’s representative in sector coordination forums, such as cluster meetings, to advocate for the organization’s priorities and perspectives.

Maintain and strengthen positive relationships with donors and government counterparts.

Partner Management involves cultivating and overseeing strategic alliances to drive mutual business growth. You will be responsible for identifying high-potential partners, negotiating mutually beneficial agreements, and ensuring seamless collaboration. Key duties include maintaining strong partner relationships, monitoring performance metrics, and resolving any issues that arise. Additionally, you will collaborate with internal teams to align partner activities with company objectives and explore new partnership opportunities. Strong communication skills, negotiation expertise, and a results-driven mindset are essential for success in this role.

Provide assistance to the Country Program in fulfilling its commitments to strengthen local partnerships.

Foster and sustain productive partnerships by cultivating strong, collaborative relationships with key stakeholders.

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

Requirements

A strong candidate will exhibit exceptional leadership, people management, interpersonal, and negotiation abilities, along with a proven track record in building collaborative teams within multicultural settings that demand cultural awareness. The ideal individual will possess strategic thinking capabilities and the skill to prioritize and achieve objectives efficiently in demanding and intricate environments.

Graduate-level qualification in International Development, International Relations, Business Management, Administrative Science, or a closely related discipline is required.

Accomplished professional with a proven track record of 5 to 6 years in challenging overseas roles within conflict or post-conflict settings, demonstrating strong leadership capabilities in program management.

Experienced in designing programs, managing MEAL processes, and overseeing the project cycle; adept at creating and tracking budgets, work plans, and other essential program management tools.

Professional individuals must possess proven expertise in coordinating, cultivating strategic networks, and fostering strong relationships with critical stakeholders such as governmental bodies, donors, international non-governmental organizations, national and local agencies, as well as United Nations entities.

Fluency in English is essential, with demonstrated proficiency in both spoken and written communication. Candidates possessing strong working knowledge of French, Spanish, and/or Arabic will be given preference.

Highly motivated, dependable, and accountable, with an exceptional focus on precision and meticulousness, along with the ability to adjust seamlessly to changing circumstances and diverse environments.

Proven capability to operate effectively in individual and collaborative work settings, demonstrating adaptability and strong interpersonal skills to contribute to team success as well as manage tasks autonomously.

Able to perform effectively in high-pressure emergency settings while sustaining a positive and balanced mindset. Committed to undertaking assignments in remote and conflict-affected regions, demonstrating adaptability and resilience in challenging conditions.

Qualifications

BA/BSc/HND

Experience Required

5 - 6 years

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