Head of Programme Sudan At Norwegian Church Aid

NCA has a long history of presence in Sudan since 1972. Through this long-term commitment NCA has gained valuable credibility as a reliable and results-driven organization with an in-depth contextual understanding of Sudan, and with capacities for flexible and adaptive programming and thematic complementarity. NCA’s 2020-2024 Country Strategy for Sudan has defined a nexus oriented and multi-sectoral integrated approach within long-term development, humanitarian response, and peace with a crosscutting approach towards strengthening civil society and building social cohesion. Since the outbreak of the war in Sudan in April 2023, there have been significant changes in the operating environment. While maintaining our thematic focus and core approaches, our geographical focus has been shifted to areas that are currently accessible to NCA and national partners. A coordination office has been established in Port Sudan with a field office in Gedaref and with support to partners and their activities in White Nile, and South and North Kordofan.

As our new Head of Programme, you will manage and guide the development of NCA’s programme activities in Sudan in line with the Country Strategic Plan and NCA policies and strategies, ensuring quality, strategic purpose, and accountability in our programming. The Head of Programs reports to the Country Director and is a member of the Senior Management Team.

The position is a two-year contract, based in Port Sudan, with extensive travel in Sudan. Please note that Sudan is classified as a high-risk area and is a non-family duty station. This position is advertised nationally and internationally. Terms and conditions will apply accordingly.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Provide leadership to ensure efficient and effective implementation of Sudan’s programme activities, in line with NCA programme polices, standards and strategies.
• Oversee the development of funding concept notes, proposals, and budgets.
• Ensure the effective and professional management of donor grants.
• Ensure timely and high-quality donor and internal reporting.
• Provide ongoing mentoring, support, and advice to a team of Programme Specialists to ensure high quality programmes management.
• Support development and implementation of a new NCA Sudan Country Strategy (2025-2030).
• Ensure the participation and involvement of relevant stakeholders in programme -implementation so that the process is inclusive, participatory, and transparent.
• Contribute to the capacity building of staff and partner organizations.

Qualifications:

• Master’s degree in a relevant subject including, but not limited to development studies, social sciences, and economic development.
• At least five years’ experience in similar or related senior management positions.
• Experience of programme development, project cycle management, budget management and participatory planning methodologies.
• Experience of donor policies and requirements from major humanitarian donors such as, but not limited to UN agencies, ECHO, USAID etc.
• Proven track record managing a diverse team and fostering teamwork.
• Experience with training and mentoring of staff and/or others.
• Work experience in the region and experience working with faith-based actors is an asset.
• Fluent English (written and spoken).

Personal qualities:

• Demonstrate strong leadership, flexibility, reflection and stay calm in stressful situations.
• Ability to listen and build trust
• Structured, well-organized and self-driven.
• Excellent communication, solid diplomatic and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to network and establish positive relationships with staff, partners, donors, and other relevant stakeholders.
• Very good ability to inspire and build other people’s capacities.
• Culture and conflict awareness and adaptability
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral; and at engaging partners and staff.
• Willingness to travel to conflict and post conflict settings, as the situation allows.
• The successful candidate must be loyal to NCA’s core values and accept the ACT Alliance’s Code of Conduct.

We offer:

• Exciting and meaningful projects with one of Norway’s largest humanitarian organizations.
• A work culture that empowers every employee to share ideas and take responsibility.
• Competitive terms and conditions and a comprehensive insurance and pension plan.
• NCA uses electronic recruitment portal. You can register your CV, write an application and attach certificates and diplomas. Only applicants who use our electronic portal will be considered for the position.

We encourage all qualified persons to apply for a job with us, regardless of gender, age, disability or cultural background. NCA uses an electronic gateway for all recruitment where you can register and submit your CV, write an application / cover letter and attach relevant certificates. Only applicants using this electronic gateway will be considered for the position.

In accordance with core humanitarian principles, NCA implements a range of safeguards to prevent or reduce the possibility of humanitarian aid falling into the wrong hands. This includes those individuals and groups who are subject to sanctions by the United Nations Security Council. As part of this process, NCA will screen the details of the successful candidates for this post against the sanctions lists maintained by the UN and by some of NCA’s governmental donors.

Before you submit your application, we kindly ask you to read the ACT Code of Conduct for the prevention of misconduct, including corruption, fraud, exploitation and abuse, including sexual; and to ensure child safeguarding and the Protection from Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse and Child Safeguarding policy. All staff are required to sign the Code of Conduct and Protection from Sexual Harassment, Exploitation and Abuse, and Child Safeguarding Policy when entering into any kind of engagement with NCA.