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 programme delivery, staff safety and operational assets in a volatile security environment. Reporting to the Chief Field Operations, the CFO ensures that UNICEF’s commitments to children are met despite humanitarian challenges.

Key responsibilities

• Manage and lead the total programme commitment of the Mekelle field office in line with the country programme plan.
• Represent UNICEF in the region, participating in meetings, events and advocacy activities for children.
• Ensure the safety and security of staff, assets and programme continuity through robust emergency preparedness and contingency planning.
• Lead and supervise programme sectors and operational service teams to achieve quality results.
• Develop risk scenarios, activate contingency plans and coordinate humanitarian assistance when needed.

Required profile

• Proven senior‑level experience in managing large, multi‑disciplinary teams in humanitarian or development contexts.
• Strong understanding of UNICEF’s policies, the Core Commitments for Children in Humanitarian Action and country‑level programme management.
• Demonstrated ability to operate in insecure, conflict‑affected environments.
• Excellent leadership, decision‑making and stakeholder‑engagement skills.

Required skills

• Emergency preparedness and risk‑scenario development.
• Programme planning and monitoring.
• Security management for staff and assets.

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence UNICEF’s impact for children in a critical region.
• Professional development within a global organization.
• Competitive compensation and benefits package.