Job Description

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose

The Deputy Head of Learning & Development supports the Head of Unit in leading one of the organisation’s largest Learning & Development (L&D) functions, delivering key onboarding programmes, including the Staff Integration Program and Security Awareness and Field Experience course—as well as leadership and management development initiatives across a significant portion of the workforce. The role ensures high-quality programme delivery, effective operational management, and continuous enhancement of learning solutions across the region.

In addition, the Deputy Head contributes to strategic planning, data-driven decision-making, and overall team leadership. This position blends people management with programme oversight and expertise in adult learning, with a strong focus on prioritisation, resource optimisation, and evidence-based practices. The incumbent also serves as Acting Head of Unit when required.

Accountabilities & functional responsibilities

• Contribute to the planning, prioritization, and delivery of Learning and Development programmes across the region;
• Ensure alignment of L&D initiatives with organisational priorities and operational needs;
• Coordinate programme pipelines in collaboration with the Head of Unit, balancing demand, capacity, and impact;
• Supervise team leads such as trainers, course administration and ensure effective cross-functional coordination;
• Drive performance management, foster a strong feedback culture, and support staff development;
• Contribute to talent development, succession planning, and capability building within the unit;
• Ensure the consistent application of adult learning principles and high facilitation standards;
• Promote the contextualisation of learning solutions to reflect operational realities;
• Champion data analytics and evidence-based approaches to inform decision-making;
• Oversee monitoring and evaluation frameworks (e.g. Kirkpatrick model) and reporting processes;
• Translate data into actionable insights to improve programme quality and prioritization;
• Act as a key interlocutor with the hosting delegation, headquarters L&D stakeholders, and relevant Area of Responsibility (AoR) stakeholders, in coordination with the Head of Unit;
• Contribute to regional Learning Needs Analyses (LNA);
• Support annual planning, budgeting, and the definition of strategic priorities for the unit.

Professional experience required

• Advanced degree in Adult Learning, Education, Leadership, or a related field;
• Minimum of 10 years of professional experience, including significant experience in Learning & Development and at least 5 years in a people management role;
• Proven experience designing and delivering leadership and management development programmes;
• Fluency in English required; French (C1 level) is a strong asset;
• Strong understanding and application of adult learning methodologies;
• Experience in international and/or humanitarian environments is an asset.

What we offer

• Diverse and humanitarian-minded workforce;
• An opportunity to contribute to institutional efforts to protect and assist conflict victims worldwide;
• Training opportunities ;
• Flexible work schedule.

Our values

• At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.

Additional information

• Location: Nairobi, Kenya
• Type of Contract: 1-year Fixed term contract (renewable subject to Budget discussion and performance)
• Type of Position: This position is open to Kenyan residents or individuals who possess the legal right to work in Kenya.
• Job level: C1
• Application deadline: 2204/2026