Danish Refugee Council, one of the worldโs leading humanitarian NGOs, is currently looking for a highly qualified professional for the role of Head of Programmes. This pivotal position encompasses a dual-country focus, ensuring adherence to DRC procedures and guidelines in both Myanmar and Bangladesh. As Head of Programmes, you will play a critical role in shaping and executing country strategies, transforming them into actionable plans that drive effective day-to-day operations. You will provide strategic support and technical leadership to country operations while overseeing the successful implementation of activities across both countries. Join us in leading impactful change in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
About the job
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC), one of the worldโs leading NGOs with a focus on responding to displacement. have been working in Myanmar since 2008 and in Bangladesh since 2013. The Head of Programme (Myanmar and Bangladesh) is responsible programme strategy and oversight in both countries. The HoP will promote synergy and joint positioning on displacement, in and from Myanmar. The position will be based in Dhaka with travels to Yangon and Area Offices of both country programme.
As part of the Senior Management Team and working closely with the Country Director, this role guides the overall programme strategy, technical guidance, fundraising and quality assurances. Your main duties and responsibilities will be:
Programme Strategy, Management & Development
Lead on developing programme strategy aligned with contextual changes at area level Roll out country strategy and support area level programme strategy development Oversee effective, efficient and timely implementation of all projects according to agreed contracts, budgets, policies and in accordance with specific donor requirements. Foster synergies between programme Areas and supporting integrated approaches where applicable. Support the Country Director to ensure effective coordination and visibility of the implementation of the projects with all humanitarian and development actors and in advocacy at all levels.Fundraising, Grant and External Relations
Along with Grants and Programme Quality Manager, ensure clear fundraising strategy and plan are in place Manage delivery of all concept notes, proposals, modifications and donor reports in coordination with other departments and in line with DRC HQ/Region and donor requirements. Lead strategic direction of proposals, and quality assure deliverables ahead of timely submission. Facilitate accurate and detailed budgeting to make sure timely and coherent budget preparation for all new proposals and budget revisions. Ensure appropriate, compliant and targeted external communications to raise the profile of DRC and ensure strong visibility of programming, assuring reputation and supporting fundraising.Programme Implementation & Coordination
Collaborate closely with Area Managers and ensure supporting programmatic technical needs. Support the technical teams to provide strategic, timely, proactive and appropriate technical support to programme implementation and ensuring consistent and standard quality across all projects.Programme Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability & Learning
Support the MEAL team to institutionalise strong monitoring, tracking and reporting systems that generate meaningful lessons learning, evidence of impact and provide data for effective programmatic decision making. Ensure that all projects have sound monitoring frameworks, they contribute to measuring impact and are in line with DRCโs country strategic plan. Ensure quality programming by contributing to the development of M&E tools and indicators and other quality improvement initiatives. Promote learning and knowledge management within the country programme.Programme Staff Management & Capacity Building
Continue the development of a technically excellent team in accordance with programmatic and country-level strategies. Develop overall staff competence through leadership, training, and coaching of key technical and management programme staff. Collaborate closely with the Head of Support Services to ensure a holistic approach to staff support, budget development, internal process and policy development, and a one-team approach to programme implementation.Donor Liaison, Partnerships & Representation
Along with the Country Director and Area Manager, ensure DRC is well represented to existing and potential donors, partners, UN agencies and all other relevant stakeholders. Cultivate key relationships that enhance DRCโs visibility and credibility as an implementing and strategic partner amongst all agencies. Drive forward DRCโs nationalization strategy, ensuring due diligence is carried out to identify appropriate future partners and consortium members. Ensure Localization strategy is in place and action plan is followed through
About you
To be successful in this role we expect you to at least 7 yearsโ experience in managing complex programme operations in humanitarian or development contexts, including 3 years in senior management. Moreover, we also expect the following:
Degree in relevant subject e.g. Social Sciences, International Development, or equivalent work experience Experience working in complex operating environments, including in conflict-affected environments. Demonstrated experience and skills in proposal development, budget development, programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation. Ability to think and work strategically and creatively, with attention to detail and experience in troubleshooting and problem solving in complex settings. Proven leadership skills and competence in people management and leading by example. Proven experience in effectively coordinating with national governments, and international, and national NGO partners. Proven experience in managing a diverse programme portfolio and comprehensive budget oversight. Full professional proficiency in English is required.
In this position, you are expected to demonstrate DRCโ five core competencies:
Striving for excellence: You focus on reaching results while ensuring an efficient process.
Collaborating: You involve relevant parties and encourage feedback.
Taking the lead: You take ownership and initiative while aiming for innovation.
Communicating: You listen and speak effectively and honestly.
Demonstrating integrity: You uphold and promote the highest standards of ethical and professional conduct in relation to our values and Code of Conduct, including safeguarding against sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment.
We offer
Contract length: 2 years
Band: Management E1
Work location: Dhaka, Bangladesh with travels at 40%
Start date: May 21st (for Myanmar only). The position will start as the Myanmar HoP at the end of May and will take over as joint HoP for Mynamar and Bangladesh, latest by Jan 1st, 2026
Salary and conditions will be in accordance with Danish Refugee Councilโs Terms of Employment for employees on national/expatriate contracts; please refer to our website for more details. For questions regarding the vacancy please contact sachitra.chitrakar@drc.ngo
Application process
All applicants must upload a cover letter and an updated CV (no longer than four pages) in English. Applications sent by email will not be considered.
Closing date for applications: 09th April 2025
For more information about the Danish Refugee Council, please visit our website drc.ngo.
Danish Refugee Council is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and positive work environment based on mutual respect for all employees. All applicants are considered for employment regardless of personal characteristics or attributes.