Country Director – Syria at Geneva Call

Mission

In situations of armed conflict, Geneva Call, as a neutral, impartial and independent international humanitarian organization, endeavors to strengthen the respect of humanitarian norms and principles by armed non-State actors, in order to improve the protection of civilians, while supporting local communities in their efforts to enhance their own protection. Appel de Genève/Geneva Call is a private, not-for-profit, humanitarian organization foundation under Swiss law, founded in 1998.

Geneva Call consists of many diverse nationalities, cultures, languages and opinions. Geneva Call is an inclusive working environment for all its staff. Applications are particularly encouraged from all qualified candidates without distinction on the grounds of race, colour, sex, national origin, age, religion, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity.

Overall activities

A Country Director is responsible of leading Syria GC operations (engagement with key stakeholders to promote humanitarian norms), raise the necessary funding, and ensure the management of the mission security and resources.

Key priorities

Country Strategy and Representation

Analyse strategic-level trends related to Syria conflict and other situations of violence as well as broader geo-political developments to support the achievement of Geneva Call’s country objectives. Develop operations according to Geneva Call’s operational frameworks and means.
Engage with stakeholders such as ANSA (armed non-state actors) leadership, State authorities, political and religious leaders, and international organisations, in order to promote humanitarian norms and secure appropriate support for the Geneva Call mission.

Fundraising

Explore fundraising opportunities for country at field level and ensure a proper follow up with the Head of Region and Fundraising Coordinator.

Security

Develop and update country-based security guidelines and contingency plans.
Ensure field structures are developed in accordance with GC security guidelines.
With the Syria team undertake risk assessment of field offices and projects. Advise on mitigation approaches.
Support Crisis Management Team efforts whenever necessary as per GC security Framework.

Programs

Develop new programs in line with Syria needs and donor’s strategies.
Monitor implementation and compliance, together with the Program Coordinator, of existing programs to ensure the quality of their delivery
Ensure that durable and sustainable partnerships are created and developed, in line with Geneva Call’s partnership policy, with other organizations (local) to facilitate and strengthen the work of Geneva Call in the country.

Budget and HR monitoring

Responsible of ensuring that all projects and programmes in the country are being adequately financed and has the budget monitoring responsibility.
Adapt HR set up according to funds available with the support of the HQ based HR Officer and the Deputy Head of Region

Communication & Advocacy

Maintain and strengthen Geneva Call’s role as a neutral, impartial and independent humanitarian actor, positioning the organization and its operations within the country to obtain maximum access to ANSAs, influential stakeholders and affected populations.
Actively contribute to Geneva Call’s public communication, raising awareness about the work of the organization to reinforce GC influence, access and response.
Constantly advocate for the knowledge and respect of humanitarian norms ? namely IHL -.

Transversal responsibilities

Management

Identify staff needs, assist in the recruitment process, the selection and management (including coaching and evaluating) staff assigned to the region.
Ensure a good work environment and management tools are implemented.

Main qualifications

*Education and experience

A graduate degree or equivalent experience in international relations/another humanitarian field.
At least 7 years of relevant experience in a humanitarian organization working in conflict areas, including engaging relevant stakeholders and managing teams of at least 10 persons.
Proven experience in project management including budget, HR, process and report management.
Experience of successfully fundraising and dealing with institutional donors and international donors.
Previous experience as a Head of Mission desired.
Experience in Syria in similar roles desired.
Experience of remote management of staff desired.
Demonstrable experience of engaging with armed non state actors (ANSAs) desired.

*Technical skills:**

Solid project management skills related to organizational development projects and international, cross-functional teams with a proven history of delivering results.
Excellent dispute resolution, facilitation and team building skills.
Substantial knowledge of international development systems, institutions and donors, and of procedures, accountability frameworks and best practices.
Ability to work under pressure and in conflict?affected settings, and to handle numerous tasks simultaneously.
Understanding of International Humanitarian Law is an asset.

*Languages:**

English (C1-C2).
Arabic (B1-C1) is highly desired.

*Personal skills:**

Demonstrated ability to thrive in a matrix management environment.
Developed interpersonal and communication skills including influencing, negotiation and coaching.
Strong communications skills (both written and verbal) at a level appropriate for high level external representation and ability to tailor communications to different audiences.
Interpersonal skills with experience of negotiation with weapon bearers and other stakeholders.
Entrepreneurial mindset.
Willingness and ability to travel at short notice.

Conditions