Relief Coordinator, Syria

Date Finalized: September 4, 2013 Job Title: Relief Coordinator, Syria                          Location: Based in Beirut with significant travel to Syria Reports to: Regional Relief Operations-Team Leader, based Beirut                                    Incumbent:    ___________________________________________________________________________ I. Summary  The Relief Coordinator, Syria will coordinate and provide oversight of the implementation of relief programs in the assigned areas inside Syria (specific areas to be determined). This position reports directly to the IOCC Regional Relief Operations Team Leader (RRO-TL) based in Beirut, but must also work in close cooperation with the Director, Department of Ecumenical Relations and Development (DERD).  II. General Responsibility  Note: This position will involve significant extended travel within Syria. The incumbent will provide monitoring and evaluation support and advice on effective program design/implementation to IOCC/GOPA staff in the assigned areas of operation.   Provide appropriate technical guidance and direction for activities in the assigned areas of Syria seeking ways to improve the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of IOCC/GOPA operations. Ensure that projects are implemented in accordance with the grant agreements and that IOCC/ GOPA staff are operating within the parameters of local laws. In consultation with the RRO-TL, participate in the strategic planning process and assist in the development of annual operational plans and budgets for Syrian relief operations. In consultation with the RRO-TL, Syria, assist in the development of project proposals. Monitor the movements of IDP, refugee, and other crisis-affected populations to identify additional emergency needs ensuring that major shifts are immediately made known to the RRO-TL and the Director, DERD.  Ensure that data collection and needs assessments are conducted in a professional and reliable manner with accurate data. On an on-going basis, seek out emerging needs and assist in the design of new or additional activities. Review financial expenditures of project funds on a regular basis to ensure they are in line with the approved budget and report any discrepancies to the RRO-TL. Ensure that consistent, timely and accurate reports and information is provided on program activities in accordance with the grant agreements, and that when issues arise, a mitigation initiative is identified in liaison with the RRO-TL.   In consultation with the RRO-TL, and in liaison with the Director, DERD Director, coach and mentor IOCC/GOPA staff members with the administrative and technical support they require in order to fulfill their responsibilities in an accountable and effective manner. Identify new opportunities for the further development of capacity of both the IOCC/GOPA staff in order to enhance accountability. Participate in Working Group Meetings and represent IOCC as assigned by the RRO-TL and keeping all relevant parties informed of decisions and outcomes.  Establish and maintain positive relations with the local Orthodox Church under the guidance of the RRO-TL and Director, DERD. Regularly visit IOCC/GOPA projects sites in the assigned areas of operation, to monitor and report on progress, provide mentoring and ensure proper project implementation is taking place. Prepare timely reports on these visits for the RRO-TL. Personally adhere to all IOCC and donor-mandated safety/security regulations and policies/ procedures.  Encourage and monitor adherence by IOCC/GOPA staff, setting the example for all to follow and recommending corrective action as required. Consistently seek out information and advice from the DERD Security Focal Points and any other available sources (church, UN, USG, NGO coordination bodies, other NGOs, HQ, local authorities, etc.) to inform operational planning and daily operational decisions, consulting with the RRO-TL and Director, DERD. Perform other related duties as required and as assigned by the RRO-TL.   III.       Qualifications      A.    Knowledge and Skills:  Field level emergency response and managerial experience, possess strong organizational and critical thinking skills, experienced in managing multiple programs and large diverse teams, ability to be flexible and adaptable, understanding of local culture     B.     Competencies: Ability to build strong personal and organizational relationships with all internal and external staff and contacts; tenacity in observing procedures, regulations, local laws and other requirements in implementing and maintaining IOCC programs; ability to think strategically, analyzed issues, and make appropriate recommendations    C.    Education/Experience: -Relevant university degree or a combination of education and relevant experience.   -Demonstrated ability to develop reports and proposals in English -Well developed skills with computer applications including Excel and Word     D.    Other: -Syrian or Lebanese nationality since this will permit ready access into Syria. -Written and spoken fluency in Arabic is essential -Good writing and verbal skills in English is essential. -Demonstrated ability to train and mentor staff     E.     Certifications: None required.   IV.             Contacts/Key Relationships  -IOCC Regional Director, Middle East -Regional Relief Operations Team Leader in Beirut -Director, DERD   -Regional Security Advisor in Beirut -Regional Finance Manager in Beirut -IOCC/GOPA staff -Orthodox Church officials -Other INGO’s, NGO’s, CBO, UN Agencies operating within Syria  V.                Working Conditions  -Significant periods of time in Syria in an environment that experiences regular conflict.