Danish Refugee Council (DRC) Job Vacancy 2025: Area Manager – Mekelle, Ethiopia
Position: Area Manager
Organization: Danish Refugee Council (DRC)
Location: Mekelle, North Ethiopia Region
Employment Type: Full-time (International or National Contract)
Contract Duration: 12 Months
Application Deadline: October 22, 2025
Start Date: December 1, 2025
About the Organization
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is one of the world’s leading humanitarian organizations, established in 1956 and currently operating in over 30 countries. DRC works to protect refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and vulnerable communities through emergency relief, advocacy, and sustainable development programs.
Position Summary
DRC is seeking a qualified and experienced Area Manager to lead and oversee operations in the North Ethiopia Region (Tigray and Afar).
The Area Manager will be responsible for strategic direction, program coordination, staff management, and stakeholder relations under the supervision of the Head of Operations (HoO).
This role ensures the delivery of high-quality humanitarian and development programs, compliance with DRC and donor policies, and maintenance of strong partnerships with local authorities, donors, and communities.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
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Lead the strategic direction and development of DRC’s programs in the North Ethiopia Region.
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Ensure that projects remain relevant and aligned with DRC’s global and country strategies.
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Represent DRC in regional coordination forums and with local authorities.
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Foster collaboration among program and support teams for efficient project delivery.
Program Management
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Oversee all program activities, ensuring compliance with humanitarian principles and donor regulations.
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Supervise project managers to achieve targets within scope, time, and budget.
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Support proposal development, budgeting, and reporting in coordination with technical and grants teams.
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Ensure timely submission of quality reports and effective use of monitoring and evaluation data.
Operational Oversight
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Manage finance, logistics, procurement, and HR processes in accordance with DRC standards.
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Maintain financial control, track spending, and ensure transparency in budget utilization.
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Supervise procurement plans, asset management, and operational safety protocols.
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Oversee office infrastructure, staff welfare, and overall operational functionality.
Safety and Security
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Implement DRC’s safety procedures to protect staff and assets.
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Monitor regional security dynamics and update contingency plans as needed.
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Coordinate with the Safety and Access Manager on security assessments and responses.
Required Qualifications and Experience
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Education: Master’s degree in Law, Social Sciences, International Development, or a related field.
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Experience:
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Minimum 6 years of experience in humanitarian or development programming, preferably in conflict or post-conflict environments.
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At least 5 years of senior project or program management experience, including supervision of large multicultural teams.
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Proven experience in donor relations, proposal development, and strategic planning.
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Strong background in safety and security management in complex contexts.
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Skills:
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Excellent analytical, coordination, and leadership abilities.
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Strong written and spoken English communication skills.
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Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines under pressure.
Core Competencies
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Striving for Excellence: Ensures results through efficient processes.
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Collaboration: Encourages teamwork and feedback.
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Leadership: Takes initiative and drives innovation.
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Communication: Communicates clearly and effectively.
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Integrity: Upholds DRC’s values, ethics, and Code of Conduct.
What DRC Offers
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Competitive salary and benefits based on DRC’s international and national pay scale.
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Opportunities for professional growth within a respected global humanitarian organization.
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A supportive, inclusive, and diverse working environment.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit:
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A cover letter (maximum one page)
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An updated CV (maximum four pages)
📅 Application Deadline: October 22, 2025
🔗 Apply Online: Apply Here
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applications sent by email will not be considered.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The Danish Refugee Council (DRC) is an equal opportunity employer.
We strongly encourage female candidates and qualified Ethiopian nationals to apply.
DRC values diversity, inclusion, and gender balance across all roles and levels.
About DRC
Founded in 1956, DRC is Denmark’s largest NGO and one of the world’s top-ranked humanitarian organizations. With over 6,000 staff members, DRC works globally to assist refugees, displaced populations, and host communities through protection, livelihoods, peacebuilding, and advocacy initiatives.
Learn more at www.drc.ngo