Disaster risk reduction delegate

Context

The Netherlands Red Cross (NLRC) supports the Nicaraguan Red Cross (NRC) through its Strategic Plan since 1997. These initiatives are in agreement with the 2009-2012 'Together we Can' International Strategy of the NLRC and the 2007-2011 Inter American Plan of the XVIII Inter American Conference in June 2007.

The Nicaraguan Red Cross currently does not have an updated strategic plan. However, whilst it is elaborating the update of the 2002-2007 Strategic Plan, it was agreed that the strategic aims of the previous Plan is to be followed. The NS seeks to prepare for and mitigate the impact of disasters in the populations that are at higher risk to contribute to resilience of these groups while at the same time looking for ways to prevent disastrous outcomes of future events and sustainable ways to recover. Its objective is to strengthen the capacities of the vulnerable communities and the NRC for the risks and effects of disasters, in community prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery, within framework of the 3371 Law and the SPHERE project.

The EU-funded project aimed at Climate Change, falls within the objectives of the NRC.

Objective:

Contribute to the reduction of the vulnerability to the effects related to Climate Change in Nicaragua.

Purpose of the position

Coordinate and lead the final year of implementation of the EU-funded Climate Change and Risk Reduction project, whilst simultaneously represent the NLRC in Nicaragua, regarding other projects and the set-up of new projects on DRR and CC.

Position in the organisation

Reporting to:
- Regional Representative, based in Tegucigalpa, Honduras.
- Regional Program Coordinator, based in HQ NLRC, The Hague.
- Managing responsibility: local staff

Responsibilities

1. Work towards the achievement of overall goals of the Netherlands RC and National Society through effective managerial and lateral relations and teamwork.
2. Ensure that the implementation of the project is consistent with the proposal approved by the donor.
3. Ensure that all parties involved contribute to the correct implementation of the project.
4. Ensure that all parties involved have a clear understanding of their roles and responsibilities.
5. Perform other work-related duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Key tasks

1. Provide guidance, support and facilitate the implementation of the Climate Change and Risk Reduction Project by the Nicaragua RC as outlined in the project document. This in close collaboration with the NLRC regional representative, the CC coordinator in Nicaragua and the ONS staff and volunteers involved.
2. Support the awareness raising process towards the authorities, civil society, and the communities targeted by the project.
3. Strengthen the capacity of the Nicaragua RC to integrate adapation to climate change related risks in its projects and to support partners responsible for risk management and climate change.
4. Advocacy of adaptation to climate change towards authorities, NGO's and the educational sector.
5. Support communities to increase organizational, adaptation and response capacities regarding the risks of climate change.
6. Provide capacity building and technical support to the HQ and branch staff of Nicaragua RC in the process of program cycle management, planning, project implementation and financial management, monitoring, evaluation and reporting.
7. To assist and advice NRC, at HQ and Branch level, with the implementation of the EU-funded project.
8. To advice NRC staff on Disaster Management matters such as developing training curriculum, preparing and implementing the workshops, managing mitigation micro projects, risk and vulnerability assessments, preparing risk maps and Disaster Preparedness public awareness.
9. Establish and support mechanisms to ensure quality programming
10. Ensure timely regular reporting on all project aspects to the Regional Office of Netherlands RC in Honduras, including quarterly financial and narrative reports, according to established formats.
11. Liaise and coordinate with other Red Cross partners, international organizations, and NGO's in project regions as well as at capital level in Nicaragua, if relevant.
12. Design and/or develop tools for monitoring progress. Support the National Society in the production of articles, weblogs, tv and radio programs or other relevant communication forms for both the national, regional and international public.
13. Responsible for the operational and financial management of the EU CC project, ensuring the specific project objectives are met.
14. Ensure the funds of the EU-funded project are used solely for the activities as described in the project description.
15. To represent the NLRC and maintain good relations with the NRC, as well as with the donor European Commission and the Federation, other Movement agencies and other organizations present in Nicaragua. Ensure continuation of the open and constructive cooperation within the RC Movement in the country.
16. To represent, if so required, the NLRC in Central America and maintain good relations with the NS of the countries where we operate, the Federation and the ICRC.
17. To participate in - local - NGO meetings related to Climate Change matters.
18. On request, to prepare in close cooperation with NRC a new programme/project description and its budget.

Social interaction

Key internal contacts:
- Establish an effective working relationship with the staff of NRC at national and local level
- To work closely with assigned counterparts in the NRC on national and local level
Key external contacts:
- Establish and effective working relationship with donors, (national) authorities, embassies and other counterparts.

Requirements

Required qualifications:
- Education
Required Experience and background:
- Work experience
- Language

Requirements and competencies

- University (Masters) Degree or advanced degree;
- 3 to 5 years of relevant work experience in developing and managing Disaster Management (preparedness, response and risk reduction) and/or Climate Change programs;
- 3 to 5 years experience in program management with proven ability to develop, write and present plans and proposals, including financial management, planning, reporting and budget control;
- Experience in participatory and strategic planning and review techniques;
- Skills in analysis and research & development of IEC materials is an advantage;
- Significant experience in program monitoring and evaluation;
- Experience in working with and implementing through local partners;
- Excellent communication and facilitation skills;
- Good knowledge of Spanish and English;
- Able to function as part of a team (The Hague/Nicaragua/Central America) and actively pursuing opportunity to strengthen the relationship between HQ and the field;
-Knowledge & experience in community participation techniques is in advance;
- Able to adhere to policy and procedures of the NLRC whilst effectively managing programs and people in order to best support and facilitate NRC.
- Experience of working in Central America is preferred;
- Red Cross Basic Training Course or equivalent knowledge is an advantage;
- Practical knowledge of computer skills incl. Word, Excel.

Key competencies

- Demonstrates professional competence, knowledge and understanding of Disaster Management and Climate Change topics (preparedness, response and risk reduction).
- Is conscientious and efficient in meeting commitments, observing deadlines and achieving results.
- Shows persistence when faced with difficult problems or challenges, remains calm in stressful situations.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision, to develop clear goals.
- Ability to monitor and adjust plans and actions as necessary.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to establish and maintain effective partnerships and working relations in different cultural and organizational settings.
- Strong assessment, analytical and interpretation skills.