Executive Director

Introduction:

ADRRN is excited to announce this new opportunity to work with one of the largest networks in the Asia region focusing on Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR). ADRRN is looking for a dynamic, well networked and well organized individual with a passion for DRR in the region who can take ADRRN to its next level of growth, reach and sustainability.

Background:

The Asian Disaster Reduction and Response Network (ADRRN) was established in 2002 as a dynamic network of national civil society organizations across the Asia-Pacific region. It serves as a pivotal platform for representing CSOs, supporting the effective implementation of global frameworks at national and local levels, facilitating disaster risk governance, and enhancing knowledge sharing and action on resilience. With members in 18 countries across Asia, ADRRN has forged MoUs and partnerships with an array of stakeholders and networks both regionally and internationally, including the Asian Disaster Preparedness Centre (ADPC), Climate and Humanitarian Crisis Initiative (CHC), Elrha’s Humanitarian Innovation Fund (HIF), Global Network of Civil Society Organisations for Disaster Reduction (GNDR), Humanitarian Leadership Academy (HLA), International Council of Voluntary Agencies (ICVA), Japan CSO Coalition for Disaster Risk Reduction (JCC-DRR), Network for Empowered Aid Response (NEAR), United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), Active Learning Network for Accountability and Performance in Humanitarian Action (ALNAP), MapAction, and the Durham University, UK.

ADRRN's vision towards 2030 is to transform Asia into the most resilient region in the world, an aspiration that acknowledges resilience cannot merely be achieved through projects. Instead, it necessitates a broad-based movement of resilience where awareness and the daily actions of citizens across Asia are oriented towards disaster risk reduction (DRR) and resilience. This vision positions

ADRRN as a catalyst for change, fostering a platform where members and stakeholders collaboratively learn, plan, and produce solutions to the increasing disaster risks in the region.

The network's strategic objectives include maintaining its position as a leading platform on disaster resilience in Asia, with outreach that involves a growing number of NGOs and local CSOs. It aims to facilitate the effective implementation of global frameworks at national and local levels, enhance early action disaster risk governance, and promote the integration of climate adaptation and disaster resilience while boosting accountability.

ADRRN's action areas and approaches focus on the professionalization of the network through thematic hubs, initiation of flagship programs, and strengthening of solidarity within the ADRRN network. Key approaches include localization, collaboration and partnership, linking climate adaptation and disaster resilience, capacity enhancement with tangible mechanisms, strengthening accountability and evidence, and fostering innovation.

ADRRN's aspirations go beyond making Asia the most resilient region. It aims to be a central figure in creating a 'movement of resilience,' providing a collaborative platform for members and stakeholders to co-learn, co-plan, and co-produce solutions and standards for the ever-increasing disaster risks in the region. This ambition reflects the network's commitment to a comprehensive approach to disaster risk reduction that incorporates the active participation of communities, the integration of local knowledge and practices, and the enhancement of disaster resilience through scientific linkage and practice.

ADRRN is therefore seeking a visionary leader who can navigate the complexities of disaster risk reduction, foster collaboration and innovation, and secure the resources necessary for the network to thrive.

Scope of Work:

The Executive Director of ADRRN will spearhead the organization's efforts to not only achieve its strategic objectives but also to ensure its growth, relevance, and financial sustainability through 2030 and beyond. This entails a multifaceted approach to leadership, strategy implementation, and operational excellence, focusing on:

1. Strategic Leadership and Vision:
   • Articulate and evolve ADRRN’s strategic vision in alignment with its mission to transform Asia into the most resilient region, ensuring this vision is integrated across all levels of the network’s operations and among its members.
   • Lead the development and execution of a strategic plan that addresses the critical challenges of disaster risk reduction and resilience in Asia, taking into account the dynamic geopolitical, environmental, and socio-economic context of the region.
2. Network Strengthening and Leadership:
   • Foster a cohesive and empowered network by enhancing member engagement and providing strategic support to the thematic hubs, ensuring knowledge sharing across the membership, enhancement of technical capacity, members' voices are heard, and their contributions are valued in shaping ADRRN’s direction.
   • Cultivate strategic partnerships with key stakeholders, including international organizations, governments, private sector entities, and other civil society networks to amplify ADRRN’s impact and reach.
3. Champion the professionalization of the network through thematic hubs, flagship programs, and by strengthening solidarity within the ADRRN network, as outlined in the strategy document.
4. Operational Excellence and Innovation:
   • Implement efficient organizational and operational practices to enhance ADRRN's capacity for innovation, response, and resilience-building initiatives.
   • Leverage technology and data analytics to improve disaster risk reduction outcomes, fostering a culture of innovation that encourages new solutions and approaches.
5. Financial Sustainability and Resource Mobilization:
   • Develop and execute a comprehensive fundraising strategy that diversifies ADRRN’s funding base, securing sustainable financial resources from international donors, governments, private sector partnerships, and other innovative financing mechanisms.
   • Enhance the organization's ability to attract and manage funds effectively, ensuring transparency, accountability, and the efficient allocation of resources towards achieving strategic goals.
6. Advocacy and Influence:
   • Act as the chief spokesperson for ADRRN, advocating for effective disaster risk reduction policies and practices at local, national, and international levels.
   • Utilize public speaking opportunities to influence policy, mobilize resources, and raise awareness about the importance of disaster resilience in Asia.
   • Develop working relationships with other civil society networks operating in Asia or globally.
7. Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing:
   • Oversee initiatives that build the capacity of member organizations and local communities in disaster risk reduction, ensuring the sharing of best practices, innovations, and lessons learned across the network.
   • Promote the integration of climate adaptation and disaster resilience in programming, enhancing the network's role in contributing to the global discourse on climate change and disaster risk management.
8. Line Management

The Executive Director will have overall operational oversight for the network, in particular, line managing the following roles:

• Learning Manager
• Business Development Manager
• Network Coordinator
• Finance Administrator
• Communications Manager

Responsibilities:

• Oversee the implementation of ADRRN's strategic plan and projects, ensuring alignment with the goal of making Asia the most resilient region.
• Lead fundraising and business development efforts to secure sustainable funding for ADRRN's operations and projects.
• Enhance public speaking engagements and advocate at senior international levels for disaster risk reduction and resilience in Asia.
• Network and build strong relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, CSOs, private sector, and international agencies across the region.
• Manage a diverse team of staff across different countries in Asia, ensuring effective collaboration and achievement of strategic goals.

Essential Qualifications and Experience:

• Advanced degree in International Development, Disaster Management, Business Administration, or related field.
• Proven experience in a leadership role within a nonprofit or international development organization, with a focus on disaster risk reduction and resilience.
• Experience of professional work in Developing countries of Asia
• Experience of working with networks and appreciation of the crucial role of the membership
• Demonstrated success in fundraising, business development, and financial management.
• Strong public speaking skills and experience in negotiating at senior international levels.
• Deep understanding of the disaster risk reduction landscape and civil society dynamics in Asia.
• Must be based in the Asia region, with willingness to travel extensively.

Desired Qualifications and Experience:

• Experience working on projects funded by international donors, particularly in the disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation sectors.
• Experience of overseeing or implementing small grant management
• Knowledge of the Triple Nexus approach and experience integrating humanitarian, development, and peace-building initiatives.
• Strong network within the disaster risk reduction, climate change, development and resilience community in Asia.
• Fluency in one or more Asian languages in addition to English.

Line Management: The Executive Director will directly manage staff members, some of whom may be part-time and based in different countries.

Other: This role is a two-year contract and subject to a 6-month probationary period.

Application Process:

1. Please submit the following:
   • Expression of Interest outlining your suitability for the role, examples of relevant past experience and motivation for applying.
   • CV
   • 3 references with contact details, indicating when it might be appropriate to contact them
2. Deadline and contact

Please submit the above to the Chairperson, ADRRN at rthakuri[at]nset[dot]org[dot]np by 14 May, 2024 at 17:00 Indochina time.

• ADRRN always emphasizes the diversity and inclusion of the workforce in terms of gender, culture and religion. Individuals from minority groups, indigenous groups and persons with disabilities are equally encouraged to apply.
• No telephone inquiry will be entertained. ADRRN policy demands selection strictly on merit basis and any undue influences are sure to lead to disqualification.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. ADRRN reserves the right to reject any or all applications without assigning any reason.
• All the suitable applications will also be kept in ADRRN Roster and will be screened and contacted for further evaluation when there is need.