Relief Coordinator-Syria

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). Although this position  reports directly to the IOCC Regional Relief Operations Team Leader based in Beirut, it is essential that the incumbent  also work under the general guidance of the Director, Department of  Ecumenical Relations and Development (DERD)  I. General Responsibilities  Note: This position will involve significant extended travel within Syria. The incumbent will provide monitoring and evaluation support and advice on effective program design to IOCC/DERD 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/DERD operations. Ensure that projects are implemented in accordance with the grant agreements and that IOCC/ DERD staff are operating within the parameters of local laws. In consultation with the Senior Relief Coordinator, Syria (SRC, Lebanon) and the Director, DERD, 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 SRC, Syria and the Director, DERD, 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 Director, DERD and SRC, Syria.  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 Director, DERD, the SRC, Syria.. Ensure that consistent, timely and accurate reports and information are provided on program activities in accordance with the grant agreements, and that when issues arise, a mitigation initiative is identified in liaison with the Director, DERD and the SRC, Syria.   In liaison with the Director, DERD Director, coach, and mentor IOCC/DERD staff members with the administrative and technical support they require in order to fulfill their responsibilities in a progressive manner. Identify new opportunities for the development of capacity of both the IOCC/DERD staff and projects in order to enhance accountability. Represent IOCC/DERD in working group meetings as assigned by the Director, DERD Director 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 Director, DERD and in close liaison with the SRC, Syria. In consultation with the Director, DERD, regularly visit 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 and distribute to the Director, DERD and the SRC, Syria. Personally adhere to all IOCC and donor-mandated safety/security regulations and policies/ procedures.  Encourage and monitor adherence by IOCC/DERD 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 Director, DERD Director, Regional Director and/or Regional Security Advisor, Regional Relief Operations-Team Leader and the SRC, Syria as required. Perform other related duties as required and as assigned by the SRC, Syria or Regional Relief Operations Team Leader.   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 -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/DERD 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