DanChurchAid (DCA) and Norwegian Church Aid (NCA) seek Country Director for Palestine

About the Role

Are you passionate about leading humanitarian and development efforts in one of the world's most complex and challenging regions? The DCA/NCA Joint Country Programme is seeking an experienced and visionary leader to advance our impactful work in Palestine. If you are ready to work alongside civil society partners and promote positive change for vulnerable communities, this role is for you!

Programme Overview

The Palestine programme focuses on three core areas of DCA's global strategy: Saving Lives, Building Resilient Communities, and Fighting Extreme Inequality.

Following the October 2023 Israel-Gaza war, our programme has grown significantly, particularly in Gaza, where we address urgent needs through:

• Cash assistance, food aid, and food security initiatives.
• Community-led solutions in WASH, mine action (EORE), protection/GBV/PSA.
• Advocacy under IHL and IHRL frameworks to promote human rights and gender equality.

We also focus on economic empowerment and sustainable livelihoods by:

• Supporting youth-focused initiatives, including innovation hubs and vocational training.
• Promoting sustainable food production and value chains.

With a $10 million annual budget, 15 partners, and 18 dedicated staff across multiple locations, our programme is driven by a commitment to community resilience and empowerment.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Define and implement the strategic vision for the Palestine programme, ensuring alignment with DCA/NCA priorities.
• Programme Management and Fundraising: Oversee programme delivery, ensuring quality, impact, and adherence to DCA values while securing and managing funding.
• Partnership Building: Foster strong relationships with local and international partners, donors, and stakeholders.
• Advocacy: Lead international advocacy efforts with Danish and Norwegian constituencies.
• Operational Oversight: Ensure compliance, risk management, and budget adherence across the programme.
• Team Leadership: Cultivate a positive, inclusive work culture and prioritize staff well-being and security.

What We're Looking For

• Education: Relevant academic degree or equivalent professional experience.
• Experience: At least 7 years of leadership experience in complex humanitarian or development contexts, with strong skills in strategy, advocacy, and negotiation.
• IHL/IHRL Knowledge: A solid understanding of international humanitarian and human rights law, with strong analytical skills.
• Regional Expertise: Deep knowledge of the Israel-Palestine context.
• Language Skills: Fluency in Danish or Norwegian and English.
• Faith-Based Understanding: Experience with faith-based organizations or religious actors is a plus.

What We Offer

At DCA/NCA, we are committed to providing a supportive and rewarding work environment that enables you to thrive while making a meaningful difference.

Impactful Work

• Lead critical humanitarian and development initiatives in Palestine, addressing pressing challenges such as food security, protection, gender equality, and economic empowerment.
• Drive sustainable change by collaborating with local communities, empowering civil society, and advocating for human rights under international humanitarian and human rights law.
• Be part of a mission that directly impacts the lives of vulnerable populations, fostering resilience and creating long-term positive change in a region in need.

Collaborative Culture

• Join a diverse and mission-driven team that values empathy, inclusivity, and mutual respect.
• Work closely with passionate colleagues in Denmark, Norway, and Palestine who are dedicated to making a tangible difference in the field.
• Contribute to a culture of innovation, collaboration, and accountability, where your ideas and leadership are highly valued.

Location

• Copenhagen-Based: Enjoy a vibrant, well-connected city as your base of operations, with access to global humanitarian networks and resources.
• Regional Engagement: Frequent travel to Palestine allows you to work closely with staff, partners, and stakeholders, ensuring hands-on leadership and direct impact.

Comprehensive Benefits

• Two-Year Contract: Benefit from stability and the chance to make a lasting impact over a multi-year assignment.
• Competitive Salary: Receive a salary package aligned with DCA's International Staff Employment Handbook, reflecting your experience and expertise.
• Additional Perks: Enjoy a supportive work environment with access to resources, training opportunities, and a commitment to work-life balance.

Joining DCA/NCA means becoming part of a purpose-driven organization where your leadership and vision can create real and lasting change for the people of Palestine.

How to Apply

Submit your CV and cover letter by 21 February 2025 via our website. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted and application sent by email will not be considered.

• For more information, contact: Cecilie Bjørnskov-Johansen, Programme Director, at [email protected] or +45 29699132.

Recruitment Process

• First Interviews: 24 February 2025.
• Personality Assessment and Feedback Session: Between interviews.
• Second Interviews: 28 February 2025.

Equal Opportunity and Compliance

DCA is an equal-opportunity employer, encouraging applications from all backgrounds. Please note that all applicants must comply with DCA's policies on prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Harassment and our Child Safeguarding Policy. DCA conducts an anti-terror check as part of the recruitment process. Passing this check and maintaining this status throughout your employment with us is a prerequisite.

For more information, visit www.danchurchaid.org.

Join us in driving positive change for Palestine!