Head of Office (m/f/d) – German Red Cross Ethiopia

About the role

The German Red Cross (GRC) is seeking an experienced Head of Office (m/f/d) to lead its Country Office in Ethiopia, based in Addis Ababa. The GRC supports the Ethiopian Red Crescent Society (ERCS) in addressing the ongoing crisis and adjusting its portfolio to ERCS priorities, with joint programmes, knowledge exchange and technical and managerial support. The HoO reports to the country manager at GRC HQ in Berlin, supervises international delegates and national staff and is responsible for overall security management. The post starts on 1 January 2027 for 12 months, with possible extension.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the GRC Country Office and represent it with ERCS, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, government authorities, the German Embassy, donors and other stakeholders.
• Support ERCS in building its capacities and programmes in line with the NSD strategy, and coordinate with Movement partners and platforms such as the MOC, CCT and TWGs.
• Develop and adapt the country strategy and operational portfolio, identify funding opportunities and help write concept notes and project proposals.
• Oversee the financial and administrative management of the office, including budgeting, procurement, HR, inventories and assets, in line with donor regulations.
• Manage programme and project implementation, monitor progress and results, and report narratively and financially; directly manage emergency response projects where required.
• Monitor political, socio-economic, humanitarian and security developments and share information with headquarters and partners.
• Ensure security policies, procedures and contingency plans are followed, including the L2 agreement with the ICRC.
• Supervise international delegates, support staff development and strengthen ERCS's organisational capacities.

Required profile

• University degree in a relevant field.
• At least five years of professional experience in international cooperation, including humanitarian crisis and/or development contexts.
• Demonstrated experience in programme and project management, budgeting, financial monitoring, M&E and donor reporting.
• Experience in staff management, team leadership and capacity strengthening; previous head of country office experience is an asset.
• Experience in the Greater Horn of Africa, particularly Ethiopia, is an asset.

Required skills

• Technical expertise in WASH, shelter and NFI, anticipatory action, cash and voucher assistance, PHEC, food security or livelihoods.
• Understanding of the humanitarian system, coordination mechanisms and disaster management; experience in the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement is a strong asset.
• Familiarity with BMZ, GFFO and ECHO funding requirements is a strong asset.
• Excellent leadership, communication, negotiation and networking skills, with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.