Mission Leader job opening in Democratic Republic of Congo

INTERSOS is actively seeking a Mission Leader to join its humanitarian operations in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). The position offers a 12-month contract with a start date of September 1, 2026. Applications close on July 29, 2026.

INTERSOS is an independent, non-profit humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting victims of natural disasters and armed conflicts. Our work is rooted in core values of solidarity, justice, human dignity, and equal rights for all, with a strong focus on supporting the most vulnerable communities. We prioritize diversity, peaceful coexistence, and the protection of human rights, ensuring that our interventions align with international humanitarian standards.

Key Responsibilities of the Mission Leader

As the representative of INTERSOS in the DRC, the Mission Leader will lead the organization’s strategic response, including program design, resource planning, and implementation. This role requires close collaboration with the Regional Director and direct supervision of the Senior Management Team (SMT).

Strategic Leadership and Program Oversight

Analyze the political and humanitarian landscape across the DRC and neighboring countries to identify emerging needs and potential intervention areas.
Develop and refine INTERSOS’s country strategy in alignment with our organizational values and donor requirements.
Ensure compliance with donor priorities and organizational policies while maintaining transparency in all operational and financial activities.
Oversee project design, implementation, and evaluation to guarantee adherence to technical and ethical standards.
Lead emergency response planning, submitting proposals to headquarters for approval when necessary.
Coordinate with the MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning) team to assess program impact and effectiveness through regular field visits.

Representation and Advocacy

Act as the primary liaison between INTERSOS and national authorities, ensuring smooth and timely execution of humanitarian interventions while preserving the organization’s neutrality.
Manage government recognition procedures and maintain open communication channels with donors to align their priorities with assessed needs.
Represent INTERSOS in relevant forums, advocating for the rights of affected populations and promoting our humanitarian principles.

Team Management and Organizational Governance

Build and lead a high-performing SMT, fostering collaboration and inclusive decision-making processes.
Work with the HR Coordinator to oversee performance evaluations for both international and national staff, ensuring alignment with INTERSOS’s Code of Ethics and operational guidelines.
Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, and ethical conduct, empowering staff to achieve organizational goals.

Financial, Logistical, and Security Management

Collaborate with the Finance Coordinator to oversee the mission’s financial health, ensuring transparent and efficient use of allocated resources.
Partner with the Logistics and Procurement Coordinator to maintain robust supply chain and operational processes.
Assume ultimate responsibility for the country’s safety and security plan, regularly consulting with regional security advisors and adapting strategies based on evolving risks.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Quality Assurance

Oversee the production of monthly activity reports and ensure all documentation complies with INTERSOS policies, donor regulations, and national laws.
Conduct ongoing assessments of program impact, identifying gaps and opportunities for improvement through field assessments.
Ensure adherence to INTERSOS’s safeguarding framework, including robust complaint mechanisms and feedback systems.

Required Qualifications and Experience

A university degree in Project Management, International Affairs, Development Studies, Political Economy, or a related field.
Minimum of eight years of leadership experience in humanitarian contexts, preferably within NGO settings in developing countries.
Proven track record in managing large-scale grants and collaborating with international donors.
Experience working in high-risk environments with direct responsibility for security planning, monitoring, and crisis management.
Strong proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and internet-based tools.

Fluency in both French and English is essential.
Demonstrated strategic vision, organizational agility, and exceptional leadership skills.
Ability to build strong teams, foster collaboration, and navigate complex stakeholder relationships.
Strong analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and a proactive approach to challenges.
Deep commitment to INTERSOS’s mission and humanitarian principles.

What We Offer

Competitive Salary: €4,505 – €5,182 gross per month.
Accommodation: Shared guesthouse provided.
Rest and Recovery: Seven days of psycho-physical recovery every 12 weeks, plus a €1,000 allowance.
Annual Leave: 2.5 days off per month.
Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Coverage for all staff members.
Travel and Visa Support: Round-trip airfare included. For missions lasting nine months or longer, an additional round-trip ticket to the home country is provided.
Onboarding Training: One week of online pre-deployment training.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their application by following the instructions on the INTERSOS careers portal. The application process consists of three quick steps:

Register by providing your name, email, password, and nationality.
Log in to your account.
Upload your CV in PDF format and include the names and contact details of at least three professional references—two former supervisors and one HR contact. Family members should not be listed as references.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.