Country Representative - Lebanon

International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), headquartered in Baltimore, MD is the official humanitarian aid agency of the Assembly of Canonical Orthodox Bishops of the United States of America.  Since its inception in 1992, IOCC has delivered $488 million in relief and development programs to families and communities in more than 50 countries. IOCC seeks a full time, highly experienced and motivated Country Representative–Lebanon who will be responsible for oversight, management (staff, financial, and technical resources), and evaluation of IOCC’s activities and operations in Lebanon. The Country Representative shall report regularly with the Regional Director-Middle East and liaise closely with the HQ-based Officer assigned for the Middle East to seek strategic guidance, support and feedback on day-to-day matters. He/She shall lead the efforts of IOCC to effectively address the humanitarian and development needs.  Lastly, the Country Representative shall act as IOCC’s legal representative in Lebanon and be the primary contact person with the Church and its development agency, indigenous and international donors, and stakeholders/partners. Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to: Overall relief and development operations in Lebanon. Responsible for the successful completion of all program activities in Lebanon. Exercising strong leadership and keen and insightful supervision of personnel, fiscal matters associated with the country operation, program performance and reporting requirements laid down by donors and HQ Office. Successfully interfacing with governmental authorities, Church functionaries, Non-Governmental organizations, and existing and potential project partners. Full knowledge of on-going project activities, reporting requirements, program benchmarks and targets, and ensuring that the staff addresses these requirements in a professional manner, consistent with the standards of IOCC and the donor. Working diligently to identify and bring new projects in a variety of sectors under contract, and will exercise leadership in project development and administration fields. Reviewing internal and project budgets to ensure that fiscal standards are observed and maintained. Supervising the development and distribution of reports, charts, and graphs as required, demonstrating adherence to accounting standards established by the donor and IOCC. Maintaining and nurturing a strong relationship with the Orthodox Church in Lebanon, and providing material support to the church within donor and project parameters. Consistently discharging him/herself in a personal manner in keeping with the high standards of IOCC and the Church. Visiting project sites, public and private institutions, Church-related institutions and governmental offices in order to develop plans, monitor progress and ensure project implementation according to the contractual requirements of the donor(s). Reviewing and assessing project status with Field Office staff and the Regional Director or Director of Programs. Helping to develop new and maintaining all current country programs, ensuring that all programs are in line with global priorities and standards. Ensuring that the Lebanon Mission Office is in complete compliance with relevant Governmental regulations relating to operations for non-profit organizations in Lebanon. Working closely with other key IOCC leaders to unify program strategies within the region.  Maintaining compliance with the established Country strategy and ensure that the annual Country Plan is implemented, reviewed and maintained. Holding and participating in strategic planning sessions ad lead in the development of annual operating plans and budgets. Ensuring that the potential projects are identified and proposals are developed in accordance with the mission goals of IOCC. Ensuring that Lebanon staff is provided with the administrative and technical support required to fulfill their responsibilities in an acceptable and professional manner. Ensuring the proper preparation of job descriptions and implementation of salary and benefit policies and procedures, implementation of annual performance appraisals, staff induction and professional development and training. Reporting into the Regional Director, Director of Programs and the HQ Regional Program Officer for Middle East on a regular basis regarding progress in attaining organizational objectives, the financial status of the operation and other issues of concern to the successful operation of the office. Developing and maintaining a positive working relationship with donors, national and regional governments, NGO, public and private sector partners. Participating in collaborative efforts with other NGOs, governmental entities, US donors, US embassy, public and private partners, the Church and other religious institutions. Perform other duties as required or assigned. Qualified applicants will possess: Comprehensive managerial, supervisory and leadership skills including proven team building and leadership development and training Minimum 7 years professional work experience in humanitarian relief and development projects, with a majority of experience at an administrative level in country of assignment; progressive experience of increasing responsibility in managing humanitarian response and multi-donor funded programs; Minimum three years in a leadership role Clear knowledge of budgeting and financial procedures and the regulations of donor agencies Knowledge about the political and economic developments in Lebanon and in the region are a plus Working experience in a variety of sectors Up to date knowledge of NGO safety and security procedures and have the ability to implement such procedures Strong networking skills; excellent communication skills including written and spoken English (also Arabic and/or French preferred); public speaking skills Microsoft Office and computer skills and other office management skills Ability to develop and maintain a strong personal and organizational relationship with internal and external staff and related organizations Sensitivity to religious, racial, ethnic and cultural customs and traditions in developing and administering programs and in dealing with organization and other staff members Ability to strategize on a broad and far reaching basis, able to analyze issues and propose solutions Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science, Business, International Development or related field of study; Masters’ Degree is preferred