Head of Mission – Kenya & Somalia

About the role

The Head of Mission for Kenya and Somalia will lead Secours Islamique France’s operations across both countries, splitting time equally between Kenya and Somalia. Reporting to the Desk Manager, the role ensures strategic alignment, effective coordination, and rapid response to humanitarian needs.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for SIF activities in Kenya and Somalia, adapting the country strategy to evolving humanitarian contexts.
• Develop and implement country programmes, overseeing assessments, proposal writing, project execution, donor compliance, and monitoring for impact and sustainability.
• Represent SIF with national authorities, donors, UN agencies, and NGOs, strengthening partnerships and advocating the organization’s mission.
• Lead recruitment, performance management, and capacity building for national and international staff, ensuring compliance with HR policies.
• Oversee logistical operations, including procurement, supply‑chain management, asset control, and adherence to SIF guidelines.
• Establish and maintain a security framework to protect staff and assets, monitoring risks and coordinating mitigation measures.
• Manage financial and administrative functions, ensuring sound budgeting, accounting, and compliance with donor and SIF financial procedures.

Required profile

• Minimum five years of higher education in international cooperation, humanitarian project management or a related field.
• At least five years of field experience, including two years in a Head of Mission or equivalent senior leadership role.
• Strong analytical abilities for security and humanitarian contexts, and proficiency in project cycle management tools.
• Ability to work under urgent conditions and on large‑scale projects, demonstrating rigor, professionalism, and rapid deployment capacity.
• Excellent written and spoken English; French is desirable.

Required skills