Founded in 1991, Secours Islamique France (SIF) is an NGO devoted to social and humanitarian assistance and development aid in France and the world. Guided by Islamic values of solidarity and respect for human dignity and by humanitarian principles of neutrality, independence, and impartiality, SIF is seeking a Head of Mission for its operations in Kenya and Somalia.
Under the supervision of the DESK Manager, the Head of Mission for Kenya / Somalia will be based 50% in Kenya and 50% in Somalia, regularly traveling between both missions to ensure effective coordination and oversight. In this capacity, the Head of Mission provides overall leadership and strategic direction for SIF’s operations in both countries.
Main Responsibilities
- Leadership and Strategic Direction: Provide overall leadership for SIF operations in Kenya and Somalia, ensuring effective coordination and strategic alignment with SIF global objectives. This includes continuous monitoring of the humanitarian context to adapt the country strategy accordingly.
- Program Development and Implementation: Lead the development of SIF’s country strategy and programs by overseeing assessments, proposal development, project implementation, and donor compliance. Ensure overall program monitoring for relevance, impact, and sustainability.
- Representation and Advocacy: Represent SIF with national authorities, donors, UN agencies, and NGOs. Strengthen partnerships and promote SIF’s mission through effective communication and advocacy at national and international levels.
- Staff Management: Provide leadership and management to national and international staff. This includes overseeing recruitment, performance management, adherence to HR policies, and the development of staff capacities.
- Logistical Management: Ensure effective logistical management of mission operations by overseeing procurement, supply chain, asset management, and logistical procedures in compliance with SIF guidelines.
- Safety and Security: Establish and maintain an effective security framework to ensure the safety of all SIF staff and operations. Monitor the security context and coordinate with relevant actors to mitigate risks.
- Financial and Administrative Management: Oversee the financial health of the mission, ensuring sound budgeting, financial monitoring, and accounting systems in compliance with SIF and donor financial procedures.
Profile and Requirements
- Education: 5 years' higher education (Master's level equivalent) in international cooperation, humanitarian project management, or an equivalent field.
- Experience: A minimum of 5 years of experience in the field, with at least 2 years serving as a Head of Mission.
- Analytical Skills: Very good contextual analysis skills, specifically regarding security management and the humanitarian context.
- Technical Skills: Mastery of project cycle management tools.
- Working Style: Ability to work both in urgent emergency situations and on major long-term projects. Requires rigour, professionalism, and responsiveness.
- Communication: Strong communication skills with excellent written and spoken English (proficiency in French is desirable).
- IT Literacy: Confident and proficient in MS Office, especially Word and Excel.
