Head of Humanitarian Response at Plan International

THE ROLE 

• Plan International Kenya is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Head Humanitarian Response who is also highly motivated and experience in triple nexus programming to lead and oversee all aspects of humanitarian response and nexus programming within the Kenya Country Program. This position will be based in Nairobi, Kenya and will require extensive travel and fieldwork, particularly in regions affected by humanitarian crises in country. The position reports to the Country Director, with matrix reporting to the (MEESA) Middle East, Eastern and Southern Africa Regional DRM Manager (Functional Leader).

DIMENSION OF THE ROLE

• This is a strategic role to lead, guide and design the holistic approach for Plan International’s humanitarian response in Kenya, aligning the (CO) Country Office program to sound humanitarian standards and with the organization's global humanitarian strategy and the specific needs and context of Kenya. The role supports the CO to fundamentally ensure nexus programming is institutionalised, while being cognisant on the changing context of global humanitarian crises. Among the key dimensions of the role include development of a humanitarian and resilience building strategy, a relevant humanitarian response framework that includes resource mobilization, modelling of humanitarian, development and community cohesion approaches, managing an operational Emergency Preparedness and Response plan, while driving gender transformative in PIK Emergency design, implementation and reporting.

Qualifications/ experience Essential:

• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in international development, humanitarian studies, peacebuilding, international development, social sciences, or related field.
• At least 10 years of experience in program management, with a focus on humanitarian response, development, and peacebuilding initiatives, including experience in leading humanitarian programs in complex emergencies.
• At least 5 years proven leadership and coordination skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, including government agencies, donors, NGOs, and community-based organizations.
• Strong understanding of humanitarian principles, standards, and frameworks, including Sphere standards, Core Humanitarian Standard, and the Inter-Agency Standing Committee (IASC) guidelines.
• Strong understanding of the humanitarian-development-peacebuilding nexus and demonstrated experience in integrating these approaches into program design and implementation.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, with the ability to influence policies and practices at local, national, and international levels.
• Experience working in Kenya or similar contexts affected by humanitarian crises, conflict, and poverty.
• Commitment to Plan International’s values and principles, including gender equality, inclusion, and child rights.
• Proven experience in program design, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation in multiple humanitarian sectors.
• Demonstrated experience in capacity building, staff management, and partnership development.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, with the ability to think strategically and make sound decisions in high-pressure situations.

Languages required

• Fluency in English required, knowledge of Swahili or other local languages spoken in Kenya is an asset.

Desired

• Master’s degree or equivalent in international development, humanitarian studies, peacebuilding, international development, social sciences, or related field.