Baghdad Governorate

<section><p class="heading jdMain">Job Description</p><p class="heading">Roles &amp; Responsibilities</p><div class="paragraph"><p>&nbsp;International Organization for Migration Project Context and Scope The project titled Inclusive Stabilization Partnerships for Reintegration and Empowerment (INSPIRE) is a five-year programme (July 2026 June 2031) funded by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Kingdom of the Netherlands (MFA) and implemented by the International Organization for Migration (IOM). INSPIRE will operate in Ninewa, Anbar, and Salah al-Din Governorates, with national-level engagement in Baghdad. The project aims to address key barriers faced by vulnerable internally displaced persons (IDPs), returnees (including Iraqi individuals from northeast Syria), and host community members in accessing basic services, civil documentation, and durable solutions. It operates across three interconnected levels: individual, community, and systemic, organized under three outcomes: Outcome 1: Improved access to basic services and durable solutions pathways for vulnerable displaced populations Outcome 2: More resilient and cohesive communities in areas of high return, with empowered local civil society structures Outcome 3: Enhanced national and local government capacity to plan, coordinate, and deliver services to Iraqi citizens Inception Phase Recognizing Iraq's evolving context, with shifting return and displacement patterns, changing funding priorities, and significant differences across governorates and districts - INSPIRE will begin with a three-month inception phase. This phase is critical to ensure that the five-year programme is evidence-based, context-sensitive, and strategically targeted from the outset. The Inception Phase will produce one core output: the Inception Report. The Report will contain: A detailed Year 1 Intervention Plan, identifying priority locations and beneficiary groups based on current conditions; and A five-year Strategic Impact Monitoring Framework, aligned with INSPIRE's Results Matrix and Theory of Change. The Inception Report will integrate multiple data sources, including: IOM Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) data; funding and intervention mapping to identify gaps where INSPIRE can add value without duplication; field consultations with local authorities, community leaders, and potential beneficiaries; and interviews with Government of Iraq (GoI) counterparts, local CSOs, UN agencies, and international partners. The Inception Phase will conclude with a Validation Workshop convening the Government of the Netherlands, relevant Iraqi ministries, the UN Resident Coordinator's Office (RCO), and key partners to finalize the Year 1 workplan and agree on coordination structures, including annual revision mechanisms. The INSPIRE inception phase requires specialized expertise in programme design, durable solutions programming, stakeholder consultation methodologies, conflict-sensitive analysis, and strategic results framework development. Given the time-bound nature of the inception phase and the need for independent technical expertise to support the development of the Inception Report and associated strategic frameworks, these services cannot be fully met through existing project staffing resources during the inception period. Therefore, IOM seeks to engage a consultant to provide targeted technical advisory support for this assignment. Organizational Department / Unit to which the Consultant is contributing Under overall guidance of the Chief of Mission (CoM), and the direct supervision of the Senior Programme Coordinator in close coordination with the involved IOM teams. The consultancy is open to international consultants and will be primarily remote. Field missions to Iraq will be required for stakeholder consultations, fieldwork, and facilitation of the Validation Workshop. Mission timing and locations will be agreed with the IOM Senior Programme Coordinator based on operational needs and security considerations. Scope of Work The consultant will provide senior-level technical advisory support and facilitate the analytical and consultative process for the development of the INSPIRE Inception Report and associated strategic frameworks. The consultant will provide advisory services only and will not have decision-making, supervisory, or representational authority on behalf of IOM The consultant's responsibilities include: Conducting a comprehensive desk review of relevant secondary data sources, including IOM DTM reports, existing assessments (legal, protection, MHPSS, livelihoods), prior IOM project documentation, and national/UN strategic frameworks (UNSDCF, National Plan to End Displacement, Yazidi Survivors Law, INAP III) Developing and implementing a stakeholder consultation methodology, including Key Informant Interviews (KIIs) and focus group discussions, with GoI counterparts (federal and KRG), local CSOs, UN agencies, international partners, community leaders, and affected populations across Ninewa, Anbar, and Salah al-Din Conducting a funding and intervention mapping exercise to identify ongoing and planned interventions in target areas, assess complementarity, and identify gaps where INSPIRE can add value Analysing IOM DTM and other displacement data to ensure targeting reflects current displacement and return dynamics Development of a strategic Year 1 Intervention Plan, including prioritized locations, target beneficiary groups, preliminary activity plans, and indicative resource allocation, in coordination with the IOM programme and MEAL teams Developing a five-year Strategic Impact Monitoring Framework aligned with the INSPIRE Results Matrix, Theory of Change, and SRoL/DSH indicators Supporting the facilitation, preparation and documentation of the Validation Workshop with the Government of the Netherlands, Iraqi ministries, UNRCO, and key partners Incorporating stakeholder feedback and finalizing the Inception Report for submission and publication&nbsp;</p></div></section><section><p class="heading">Desired Candidate Profile</p><p class="paragraph"></p><ul><li>Advanced university degree (Master's or equivalent) in Political Science, International Development, Humanitarian Affairs, Conflict Studies, Sociology, Migration Studies, or a related field. A first-level university degree with significant directly relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree.</li><li>A minimum of 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in programme development, project design, or research in humanitarian, stabilization, or development contexts.</li><li>Demonstrated experience developing reports or strategic frameworks for multi-year, multi-sectoral programmes in conflict-affected or post-conflict settings.</li><li>Proven experience conducting stakeholder consultations, KIIs, and field assessments in complex operating environments, ideally in Iraq or the MENA region.</li><li>Familiarity with the Iraq displacement and reintegration context, and the relevant GoI institutional landscape.</li><li>Experience with monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) frameworks, including results matrices and Theory of Change development.</li><li>Prior experience with IOM, UN agencies, or internationally funded programmes (particularly Dutch MFA-funded programmes) is a strong advantage.</li><li>Experience engaging with civil society organizations, and familiarity with protection, MHPSS, livelihoods, durable solutions, and community policing programming, is desirable.</li><li>Excellent analytical and writing skills, with a demonstrated ability to synthesize complex qualitative and quantitative data into clear, actionable recommendations.</li><li>Strong facilitation and stakeholder engagement skills, including experience facilitating multi-stakeholder workshops.</li><li>Proficiency in data analysis and presentation.</li><li>Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks under time pressure, and deliver high-quality outputs on schedule.</li><li>Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.</li><li>Proficiency in Arabic/Kurdish is advantageous.</li></ul><p></p></section>

<h2 class="h5">Job description</h2> <div class="t-break" data-jb-field="description"> <p><span>Near East Foundation (NEF)</span></p><br> <p><span><span>Title: </span>Director of Programs and Operations – Iraq</span></p><br> <p><span><span>Unit: </span>Senior Management<span><br>Reports to: </span>Interim Country Director / Chief operation Officer<span><br>Duty Station: </span>Iraq<span><br>Travel: </span>Frequent travel within Iraq as required</span></p><br> <p><span>Position Description</span></p><br> <p><span>The Director of Programs and Operations – Iraq is a senior national leadership position responsible for the day-to-day management, coordination, and oversight of NEF’s programs and operations across Iraq. The role will support the effective implementation of NEF’s portfolio while ensuring strong operational systems, donor compliance, partnership management, and coordination with national and local stakeholders.</span></p><br> <p><span>Working under the supervision of the Interim Country Director/Chief operation Officer and in close coordination with regional and global support teams, the Director of Programs and Operations will provide leadership to program and operational teams in Iraq and contribute to strengthening NEF’s locally led presence, partnerships, and institutional positioning in the country.</span></p><br> <p><span>The position will play a key role in ensuring continuity, quality implementation, operational oversight, and relationship management with local authorities, partners, and coordination structures, while supporting the gradual transition toward strengthened localized leadership and sustainable country operations.</span></p><br> <p><span>Key Responsibilities</span></p><br> <p><span>Program Oversight and Coordination:</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Oversee the day-to-day implementation of NEF programs and projects across Iraq, ensuring activities are delivered effectively, on time, and in compliance with donor and organizational requirements.</span></li> <li><span>Support coordination between program, finance, procurement, logistics, MEAL, and administrative teams to ensure smooth project implementation.</span></li> <li><span>Monitor project progress, implementation challenges, and operational risks, and support timely problem-solving and adaptive management.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure project workplans, implementation targets, reporting timelines, and operational priorities are regularly monitored and updated.</span></li> <li><span>Support the quality and consistency of program implementation across different geographic locations and partnerships.</span></li> <li><span>Contribute to internal coordination and planning processes related to Iraq operations and programming.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Operations and Compliance:&nbsp;</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Oversee country-level operational functions and ensure compliance with NEF internal policies, donor regulations, and relevant Iraqi legal and administrative requirements.</span></li> <li><span>Support procurement planning and oversee procurement and logistics processes in coordination with relevant teams.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure appropriate management and utilization of project assets, offices, and operational resources.</span></li> <li><span>Coordinate with finance teams on budget monitoring, expenditure tracking, operational forecasting, and financial compliance.</span></li> <li><span>Support risk management, safety, security, and duty of care measures for staff, offices, and operations.</span></li> <li><span>Ensure operational documentation, approvals, and filing systems are maintained in line with donor and organizational standards.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Grants and Partnership Management:</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Support the effective management of grants, contracts, donor compliance requirements, and reporting processes.</span></li> <li><span>Oversee timely preparation and review of internal and donor reports in coordination with program and support teams.</span></li> <li><span>Maintain close coordination with national NGOs, civil society organizations, local institutions, and implementing partners.</span></li> <li><span>Support partnership management processes, including coordination, follow-up, monitoring, and capacity strengthening where needed.</span></li> <li><span>Coordinate with relevant Iraqi authorities, including DNGO and other applicable governmental entities, to support operational compliance and maintain required approvals and registrations.</span></li> <li><span>Support communication and coordination with donors, working groups, and coordination forums in alignment with NEF leadership guidance.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Representation and External Coordination:</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Represent NEF in meetings, coordination platforms, technical working groups, and stakeholder engagements at the national and governorate levels, as delegated.</span></li> <li><span>Maintain professional working relationships with governmental stakeholders, donors, local authorities, civil society actors, UN agencies, and private sector partners.</span></li> <li><span>Support the identification of operational and programmatic opportunities that contribute to the continuity and sustainability of NEF’s Iraq portfolio.</span></li> <li><span>Contribute to maintaining NEF’s positive institutional presence and partnerships across Iraq.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Staff Management and Team Leadership</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Supervise and support program and operations staff in Iraq and promote effective coordination and teamwork across departments.</span></li> <li><span>Support staff performance management processes, including work planning, objective setting, follow-up, mentoring, and regular feedback.</span></li> <li><span>Foster a collaborative, accountable, respectful, and solutions-oriented working environment.</span></li> <li><span>Coordinate with HR and senior management on recruitment, onboarding, staffing needs, and staff well-being.</span></li> <li><span>Promote safeguarding, inclusion, staff care, and professional conduct across all teams and operations.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Qualifications and Experience</span><br></p><br> <ul> <li><span>University degree in business administration, international development, management, social sciences, or a related field.</span></li> <li><span>Minimum 7–10 years of relevant professional experience in program and operations management within humanitarian, development, or recovery contexts.</span></li> <li><span>Strong experience managing operations, grants, compliance, procurement, administration, and multi-sector projects.</span></li> <li><span>Demonstrated experience working with international NGOs, donors, local partners, and governmental stakeholders in Iraq.</span></li> <li><span>Good understanding of the Iraqi operational, administrative, and regulatory environment, including coordination with DNGO and relevant authorities.</span></li> <li><span>Experience managing teams and coordinating across multiple departments and geographic locations.</span></li> <li><span>Strong organizational, communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.</span></li> <li><span>Fluency in Arabic and professional working proficiency in English required.</span></li> </ul> <p><span>Preferred Qualifications</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span>Previous experience in senior management or deputy leadership roles within Iraq.</span></li> <li><span>Experience working in complex and multi-governorate operational environments.</span></li> <li><span>Familiarity with donor-funded programming, compliance requirements, and partnership management.</span></li> <li><span>Experience supporting localization, institutional strengthening, and capacity development initiatives.</span></li> </ul> <p><span><span>NEF will accept applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The deadline will be on May 28, 2026</span>.</span></p><br> <p><span><span><span>To apply</span></span><span>:</span></span></p><br> <p><span>Please apply by submitting the following documents:</span><br></p><br> <ol> <li><span><span>Cover letter outlining relevant experience and skills based on the requirements outlined above;</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Curriculum Vitae;</span></span></li> <li><span><span>List of three references (including one from current, or most recent, employer).</span></span></li> </ol> <p><span><span>Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Near East Foundation by visiting the NEF website at&nbsp;</span>www.neareast.org<span>.</span></span></p><br> <p><span><span>The Near East Foundation promotes Equal Opportunities for all applicants seeking employment and NEF employees.</span></span></p><br> <p><span><span>Females are strongly encouraged to apply.</span></span></p><br> <p><span><span>Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.</span></span></p><br> <p><span><span>Pre-employment Checks</span></span></p><br> <p><span>Any Employment with the Near East Foundation will be subject to the following checks prior to start&nbsp;date:</span></p><br> <ul> <li><span><span>A satisfactory Restricted Party Screening;</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Receipt of satisfactory references;</span></span></li> <li><span><span>Proof of eligibility to work in the national location for this role.</span></span></li> </ul> <p><span><span>NEF's strength is its people.</span>&nbsp;Our team is our fuel to achieving the innovation, quality programming, community focus, mutual trust, sustainability, and learning needed to realize our mission. To help our team thrive, we support a working structure that prioritizes flexibility, personal commitments, and staff well-being while promoting a work culture of teamwork, collaboration, respect, integrity, and excellence.</span></p><br> <p><span><span>As an international organization, we value a truly diverse workforce and prioritize a culture of inclusivity and belonging</span>. We strive to create a high-achieving work environment informed by different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. With a commitment to diversity, equality, equity, and inclusion in all we do, our aim is to ensure that people feel heard, protected, and empowered to contribute to NEF's mission from day one.</span></p><br> </div>