Chief Field Office (P-4) – Fixed Term – Mekelle, Ethiopia

About the role

The Chief Field Office (CFO) leads UNICEF’s field presence in Mekelle, overseeing the full programme portfolio and ensuring delivery of high‑quality results in a challenging security environment.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and coordinate all programme sectors and operational service teams within the field office.
• Represent UNICEF in the area, participating in meetings and events to advance the agenda for children.
• Develop and activate emergency preparedness and contingency plans to safeguard staff, assets and programme continuity.
• Ensure compliance with UNICEF’s programme of cooperation, country programme management plan and humanitarian policy framework.
• Monitor performance, conduct staff assessments and promote a results‑driven culture.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in humanitarian or development operations, preferably in volatile contexts.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to manage multidisciplinary teams.
• Strong understanding of risk management, security protocols and emergency response.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder‑engagement abilities.

Required skills

• Emergency preparedness and contingency planning.
• Risk scenario development.
• Programme management and monitoring.
• Security and safety management for staff and assets.

What we offer

• Opportunity to make a tangible impact on children’s lives in a humanitarian setting.
• Professional development within a global organization.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.