Job Description

About the Organization
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a global humanitarian organization founded in 1933 to respond to crises caused by conflict and disasters. Operating in over 40 countries and multiple U.S. cities, IRC works to restore health, safety, education, and economic stability for vulnerable populations. In Uganda, IRC has been active since 1998, supporting refugees and host communities through programs in health, education, protection, economic development, and governance.

Role Overview
The Country Director (CD) provides overall leadership and management of IRC’s operations in Uganda. This includes overseeing staff, programs, partnerships, and resources while ensuring high-quality service delivery, accountability, and compliance. The CD also represents IRC at national and international levels and leads the implementation of large-scale humanitarian and development programs.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Representation

• Provide strong leadership to guide program strategy and execution in line with IRC’s global mission.
• Represent IRC in engagements with government, donors, NGOs, UN agencies, and the media.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with stakeholders and local organizations.
• Promote a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performing work environment.

Program Strategy & Quality

• Oversee the design and delivery of effective, high-impact programs aligned with organizational goals.
• Ensure programs are evidence-based, client-focused, and responsive to local needs.
• Promote innovation, learning, and accountability across all program areas.

Fundraising & Donor Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to secure diverse funding sources.
• Maintain strong relationships with donors and partners.
• Ensure timely submission of high-quality proposals and reports.

Operations & Financial Management

• Ensure compliance with financial, procurement, and operational policies.
• Manage budgets effectively and ensure financial sustainability.
• Strengthen systems for efficiency, transparency, and accountability.

Governance & Risk Management

• Lead risk management strategies to protect staff, assets, and operations.
• Ensure preparedness for emergencies and crisis response.
• Promote compliance with organizational and donor requirements.

Safety & Security

• Oversee security management for staff and operations.
• Maintain updated safety protocols and contingency plans.

People & Culture

• Build and lead high-performing teams.
• Promote staff well-being, professional growth, and inclusivity.
• Strengthen talent management and organizational culture.

Communication & Advocacy

• Foster open communication within the organization.
• Support advocacy efforts to influence policies that benefit communities.

Emergency Response

• Lead emergency preparedness and response efforts.
• Coordinate with regional and global teams to mobilize resources during crises.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master’s degree (or relevant graduate qualification).
• At least 10 years of international experience, including leadership roles in complex environments.
• Proven experience managing large, multi-sector programs and teams.
• Experience in conflict, post-conflict, or disaster response settings.
• Fluency in English (additional languages are an advantage).

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management skills
• Strategic thinking and decision-making ability
• Financial and operational management expertise
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple priorities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and relevant systems

Core Competencies

• Visionary leadership
• Strategic adaptability
• Results orientation
• Strong partnership and influence skills
• High integrity and accountability

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel (approximately 50%) within and outside the region.

Professional Standards
All staff must uphold IRC’s core values: integrity, service, equality, and accountability, while adhering to policies on safeguarding, ethics, and professional conduct.