About Company
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) responds to the world’s worst humanitarian crises and helps people to survive and rebuild their lives. Founded in 1933 at the call of Albert Einstein, the IRC delivers life-saving care to people affected by conflict and disaster. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the IRC has been a steadfast partner in addressing critical humanitarian needs since 1996. Our programs span across health, protection, economic recovery and development, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) sectors, aiming to provide immediate relief and foster long-term resilience for vulnerable populations. We work closely with local communities, government authorities, and international partners to implement impactful, sustainable solutions to complex humanitarian challenges. Joining the IRC means becoming part of a global team dedicated to making a tangible difference in the lives of millions, upholding values of integrity, service, and accountability.
Job Description
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is seeking a highly experienced and dynamic Program Director to lead and strategically oversee our extensive portfolio of humanitarian and development programs in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), based in Kinshasa. This pivotal role demands exceptional leadership, strategic vision, and operational expertise to drive impactful interventions in a complex and evolving humanitarian landscape. The Program Director will be instrumental in ensuring the effective implementation, monitoring, and evaluation of all IRC programs in DRC, aligning them with the country’s strategic objectives and global organizational standards.
You will be responsible for fostering a culture of programmatic excellence, innovation, and accountability, ensuring that our interventions are evidence-based, conflict-sensitive, and responsive to the needs of the most vulnerable populations. This includes guiding sector leads, enhancing cross-sectoral integration, and promoting learning and adaptation within programs. A key aspect of this role involves robust donor engagement and relationship management, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and securing new funding opportunities to expand our reach and impact. You will also play a critical role in representing the IRC in various forums, building strong partnerships with government bodies, UN agencies, local NGOs, and other stakeholders to advocate for humanitarian principles and facilitate collaborative action.
This position requires a leader who can navigate complex political and security environments, inspire diverse teams, and champion the IRC’s mission of helping people survive, recover, and gain control of their future. If you are passionate about humanitarian action, possess a proven track record in leading large-scale programs in challenging contexts, and are committed to making a lasting difference in the lives of people affected by crisis, we encourage you to apply.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all IRC programs in DRC, ensuring alignment with country and global strategies.
- Manage and mentor a diverse team of program managers and technical coordinators, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
- Oversee program design, planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation, ensuring high quality, timeliness, and adherence to budget.
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors, government officials, UN agencies, and other key stakeholders.
- Lead the development of new program proposals and concept notes, actively seeking funding opportunities and contributing to resource mobilization efforts.
- Ensure programs are implemented in compliance with IRC policies, donor regulations, and humanitarian standards.
- Monitor the political, security, and humanitarian context in DRC, adapting program strategies as necessary.
- Promote gender equality, diversity, equity, and inclusion within all program activities and team dynamics.
- Ensure effective risk management and safeguarding practices are integrated across all programs.
- Facilitate learning and knowledge management across programs, documenting best practices and lessons learned.
Required Skills
- Minimum of 8 years of progressive experience in managing complex humanitarian or development programs, preferably in conflict-affected or fragile contexts.
- Proven experience in a senior leadership role within an international NGO, with direct supervision of large teams.
- Demonstrated expertise in program design, proposal development, budget management, and M&E.
- Strong understanding of humanitarian principles, international humanitarian law, and best practices in humanitarian aid.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and representation skills.
- Fluency in English and French (written and spoken) is essential.
- Ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment and manage diverse teams.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, with an emphasis on strategic decision-making.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master’s degree in International Development, Humanitarian Aid, Public Administration, or a related field.
- Experience working in the Democratic Republic of Congo or similar challenging contexts in Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Experience with major institutional donors (e.g., USAID, ECHO, FCDO, UN agencies).
- Familiarity with remote management approaches and tools.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Generous paid time off and holidays.
- Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
- Professional development opportunities and training.
- Relocation assistance for international candidates (if applicable).
- Supportive and collaborative work environment focused on impact.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please submit your updated CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and motivation for this role. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. The IRC is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity.