Job Description

Please note that this vacancy is only open to eligible staff members who have been individually notified of their eligibility to apply for positions advertised in the Accelerated Posting Compendium.

June 12, 2026

E (most hardship)

Non Family with Residential Location

Addis Ababa,Eth Fed Dem Rep

PR5

Professional

Reason

Regular > Regular Assignment

2026-05-26

Senior Situation Coordinator

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships
The Senior Situation Coordinator normally works under the direct supervision of the Bureau Director or Representative and may have alternative reporting relationships depending on the structure and size of the Office. S/he coordinates the responses to a designated situation ensuring that the measures, necessary for timely, effective and consistent responses are taken and coordinated between Headquarters, the Regional Bureau and the concerned UNHCR Country Operations within a specific region. S/he will furthermore coordinate with regional stakeholders within the Inter-Agency Framework and actively contribute to the implementation of a situational strategy for forcibly displaced and stateless persons in the area of responsibility (AoR) in close consultation and coordination with relevant sections at Bureau, Country and Headquarters level. Moreover, the incumbent in close coordination with Senior Policy Adviser or Head of Bureau Protection Service, as appropriate, will lead the endeavour to define the strategic response to the designated situation in the AoR.

The incumbent supervises Operations or other staff. External contacts are with relevant national and international governmental counterparts, UN Resident Coordinators, UN agencies, private sector, and NGOs on UNHCR's programmes in the countries covered under the AoR in coordination with Representatives.

The grade level of the positions with this role can be P5 or D1 depending on the activities covered under the designated situation as well as the structure and location of the organizational unit in which the position operates. Positions at D1 normally report to Director/Representative at D2 grade level and positions at P5 to (Deputy) Director/Representative or Head of Operations Service at D1 grade level.

In the Regional Bureaux, the incumbent is responsible for ensuring in an effective and efficient manner which supports the Organization's Mandate, overall quality assurance and managerial support of operations, in line with the Bureau's 2nd line function, within the three lines of defence conceptual framework for effective control and risk management adopted by the UN system.

S/he will, further, cover the full spectrum of managerial oversight, manage performance and monitor the adherence of Country Operations to UNHCR's rules and regulations, monitoring, identifying and addressing any emerging issues and risks as appropriate. The incumbent also promotes a culture that is results-oriented, efficient and based on trust and pursues measures to ensure that inclusion, gender balance and diversity are taken into due consideration in staffing, resource allocation and representation at all levels throughout the AoR.

As a key custodian of the organization's standards of conduct, s/he will proactively establish a working environment where all personnel feel safe, heard, equipped and empowered to speak up; demonstrate no tolerance for sexism, gender inequality, discrimination of any kind, abuse of power, harassment or sexual harassment; foster ongoing dialogue on those matters; take seriously all issues of inappropriate behaviour and actions reported, whether formally or informally; and seek guidance and support as necessary to ensure that appropriate follow-up is taken, working on the basis of zero tolerance for any form of misconduct.

All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties
- Facilitate strategic planning, tactical and operational synergies and collaboration with Governmental, UN system, non-governmental organizations, donors, civil society partners and other stakeholders in coordination with Representatives in country operations.
- Coordinate the preparation, revision or updating of UNHCR-led Inter-Agency Regional Contingency and/or Refugee Response plans drawing upon and rationalizing the respective elements of the concerned Country Operation plans to include coherent scenarios and strategies on protection and durable solutions (even in the initial stages of the emergency) as well as resource requirements, advocacy, fundraising and information-management.
- Monitor political, security and other developments in the country/ies of origin and the affected countries in the region, including where relevant, the responses by international humanitarian community, United Nations Peacekeeping Missions, development actors, as well as any escalations or other changes in the conflict/insecurity or mediation/peace efforts; ensure that the relevant implications and inputs are factored into the coordinated regional refugee response to the emergencies in the countries concerned.
- Convene regional coordination meetings bringing together all regional partners; Undertake missions to identify political, security, operational, funding challenges, and risks facing the regional refugee response and to foster the best possible inter-agency collaboration, synergy and action.
- Maintain a pro-active external relations and strategic communications posture on key developments of the (emergency) response and regularly provide briefings and other information or advocacy products to relevant governments, regional multilateral institutions, donors and other stakeholders; ensure UNHCR participation in meetings, consultations, initiatives or other events crucial to coordination of the regional refugee response.
- Ensure visibility for and mobilize or sustain funding support for UNHCR's activities (and its partners), interests or concerns relating to the situation, both in the country(ies) of origin as well as in the countries affected.
- Liaise with focal points in the Bureau and country operations to ensure close follow up on situational realities, programme / Regional Response plan implementation, challenges and sub-regional developments which may have an impact on the situation.
- Provide inputs to concerned Country Operation plans to include coherent scenarios and strategies on protection and durable solutions in line with regional strategy.
- Ensure that risk management considerations are integrated into decision making, planning, monitoring, reporting and contingency activities in the region covered, and promote this across relevant field operations.

- Lead risk assessments and discussions with team(s) to proactively manage risks and seize opportunities impacting objectives. Ensure that risk management principles are integrated in decision-making both at strategic and operational levels. Allocate resources for planned treatments with resource requirements in Strategic Plans. Ensure that risks are managed to acceptable levels and escalate, as needed. If a Risk Owner, designate the Risk Focal Point and certify that the annual risk review is completed and ensure that the risk register is updated during the year, as needed.

- Lead risk assessments and discussions with team(s) to proactively manage risks and seize opportunities impacting objectives. Ensure that risk management principles are integrated in decision-making both at strategic and operational levels. Allocate resources for planned treatments with resource requirements in Strategic Plans. Ensure that risks are managed to acceptable levels and escalate, as needed. If a Risk Owner, designate the Risk Focal Point and certify that the annual risk review is completed and ensure that the risk register is updated during the year, as needed.
- Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P5 - 12 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 11 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 10 years relevant experience with Doctorate degree

Field(s) of Education
Political Science; Economics; Social Science; Business Administration; Law;

or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
Programme Management

Relevant Job Experience
Essential
Experience in field operations. Strong operational background and political awareness. At least 10 years of relevant experience in an international capacity. Understanding of UNHCR mandate and operations.

Desirable
Experience in lobbying successfully governmental counterparts in key policy issues of relevance to forcibly displaced and stateless persons' access to rights and search for durable solutions. Experience in working with UNHCR; or other UN entities or partners preferably in the area of refugee or humanitarian operations. Proven track record in emergency preparedness, response and management.

Functional Skills
MG-Field Operations Management
ER-Inter-Agency Leadership/Coordination
MG-Coordination
RM-Risk Management
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.

All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.

As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.

This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.

DCP Principal Situation Coordinator P5
The ideal candidate is a senior humanitarian professional with strong experience in field operations, emergency response, inter-agency coordination, and strategic leadership. S/He should have a solid understanding of UNHCR’s mandate, refugee protection, and durable solutions, as well as the ability to manage complex situations involving multiple stakeholders.
Essential Attributes
• Strategic Leadership and Vision for Solutions
Demonstrated capacity to provide strategic direction and leadership, aligning operations with UNHCR Chad’s solutions-oriented vision. Proven ability to drive the transition from emergency response to resilience and durable solutions, promoting innovation and reducing dependency on humanitarian assistance through integration into national systems.
• Partnerships, Coordination, and Nexus HDP Approach
Recognized ability to mobilize and align humanitarian, development, and government actors to deliver collective outcomes through a strong HDP nexus approach. Proven influence in building strategic partnerships with UN agencies, donors, and authorities, including reorientation of development projects and successful resource mobilization for solutions-driven programming. Strong experience in Inter-Agency coordination, including the application of the Refugee Coordination Model (RCM) and IASC frameworks, ensuring aligned, efficient, and complementary responses.
• Operational Excellence and Results Delivery
Extensive experience in leading complex, large-scale, multi-sector humanitarian responses, including operations involving over one million forcibly displaced persons. Strong ability to translate strategy into coherent, accountable, and impact-oriented implementation, ensuring high standards of performance, compliance, and risk-informed decision-making. Strong track record in translating strategy into measurable results through effective planning, resource optimization, and performance management, while ensuring compliance with UNHCR standards and risk-informed approaches.
• People Management, Communication, and Advocacy
Extensive experience managing large, diverse, and multicultural teams in complex field settings, with a strong focus on staff well-being, inclusion, and performance in hardship duty stations. Excellent communication and diplomatic skills, with the ability to engage effectively with high-level stakeholders, media, and donors, and to advocate persuasively for protection and solutions.

Desirable Attributes
• Change Management and Organizational Transformation
Demonstrated leadership in driving organizational change, steering programs from emergency-driven approaches toward sustainable, solutions-oriented programming. Strong understanding of integrated humanitarian-development planning cycles and financing mechanisms, supporting long-term impact and system strengthening.
• Accountability, Analysis, and Ethical Leadership
Strong capacity in data-driven decision-making, performance monitoring, and evaluation to maximize operational impact. Deep knowledge of UNHCR policies, standards, and procedures, ensuring ethical compliance and sound judgment. Demonstrates cultural sensitivity, respect for host communities, and commitment to diversity and inclusion.

French

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Operational context

Occupational Safety and Health Considerations:

To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Nature of Position:

Nearly four years after the armed conflict that broke out in Khartoum (Sudan) in April 2023, Sudanese refugees and Chadian migrants continue to seek for protection and assistance in the eastern provinces of Tchad following the intensification of clashes between the parties in conflict that caused an unprecedented humanitarian crisis in Darfur including food insecurity and violence and physical threats to women and children.

The presence of refugees considerably exacerbated the existing development challenges and multidimensional risks of instability marked by food insecurity, the effects of the climate change and the lack of basic social infrastructure. The Government of Chad consequently declared the food security crisis at the end of 2023 and launched an appeal for assistance to the international community. The National Response Plan to the Sudanese Crisis in the East has been initiated by the Central Government right after the end of the political transition period in close consultation with the UN agencies to respond sustainably to the complex urgent and recurring needs the host and refugees’ communities are facing. A dedicated UN Offer (a resilience plan) is in preparation under the lead of UNDP and UNHCR to support the vision of the government to stabilize the socio-economic environment of the East and promote the inclusion of refugees through the effective humanitarian, development and peace nexus that is expected to reduce the vulnerability of the affected populations and accelerate the community empowerment.

UNHCR advocacy efforts led to a considerable number of high-level visits of humanitarian and development donors and international media to spotlight the impact of the Sudanese crisis on the socio- economic stability of Tchad with the encouraging unanimous conclusion that the current context of Chad represents a unique opportunity to make the NEXUS a reality through the joint sustainable programing and massive investments in refugees hosting areas. The technical and financial partners (PTF) strongly support the United Nations proposal to implement the coordination of Nexus Integrated Territorial Approaches (ATI-Nexus) in the East provinces with UNDP as the Lead and UNHCR the Co-Lead, under the leadership of the Governors.

The incumbent, working under the direct supervision of the D1 Representative based in N'Djamena, will have the responsibility to ensuring quality leadership in the implementation of the sustainable programming strategy set objectives, in a trusted collaboration with provincial (Ouaddai, Wadi Fira, Enedi Est and Sila) and local authorities, humanitarian and development partners and affirming the crucial coordination leadership of the refugee coordination model and the newly adopted Nexus coordination.

The Sudanese crisis being regional, the Principal Situation Coordinator will have to closely collaborate with his counterparts in other operations, mainly in Darfur region of Sudan, with Cross Border actors, international and national NGOs, and UN agencies, and will regularly participate to relevant coordination fora when required.

Living and Working Conditions:
Candidates applying to positions in Chad should be prepared to work under challenging conditions and be able to manage stressful situations. All the duty stations in Chad are classified E, except N’Djamena which is at D.

In terms of working and living conditions, Farchana is a small town that has only very basic infrastructure with very limited leisure and recreational facilities. There are no banking facilities in Farchana. The nearest bank facility is in Abeche where ATMs are also operational. Malaria is prevalent and all staff need to be vigilant by taking the relevant measures. Farchana is an E non-family location. There are also very limited health facilities available locally.
UNHCR managed guest houses provide and facilitate accommodation to UNHCR staff.
All communications within the office and with external partners such as Government and humanitarian agencies are conducted in French. Fluent French (both written and spoken) is essential for this position. However, working knowledge of English, especially written, is also required as reports, internal as well as external, are requested in English.
R&R circle is every 8 weeks.

There are specific security measures to be taken into consideration. Aside from the mandatory security briefing provided to the staff upon arrival in N’Djamena with specific location information and requirements:

• All UN personnel must complete their BSAFE training online
• Per the classification of roads, all road movements between cities should be accompanied by an armed escort in the SRM East zone. These movements are conditioned by a granted security clearance through TRIP
• Unless exceptionally allowed all road movements between cities must be started after 6 a.m. and completed by 6 p.m.
• All movements of UNSMS vehicles in Abeche are allowed only between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m, while all movements of UNSMS vehicles in Farchana, Goz Beida, Iriba, Amdjarass and Guéréda are allowed only between 6:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m.

Additional Qualifications

Skills

Bachelor of Arts: Business Administration, Bachelor of Arts: Economics, Bachelor of Arts: Law, Bachelor of Arts: Political Science, Bachelor of Arts: Social Science

Certifications

Programme Management - Other

Competencies

Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Leadership, Managing performance, Managing resource, Negotiation & conflict resolution, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Strategic planning & visions, Teamwork & collaboration

https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales

Compendium

Accelerated Posting Compendium 2026 - Part B

Additional Information

This position doesn't require a functional clearance