Country Director - Iraq (International)

About the role

Geneva Call is seeking a senior leader to serve as Country Director for Iraq. Based in Erbil, the Country Director will be the most senior representative of the organisation in the field, providing strategic direction, overseeing programme implementation and ensuring the mission’s humanitarian objectives are achieved.

Key responsibilities

• Analyse the humanitarian and security context in Iraq to identify priority areas for engagement with armed groups, de‑facto authorities and provisional governments.
• Lead the design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation of country programmes in line with Geneva Call’s strategy and IHL promotion goals.
• Manage the country team, including recruitment, performance management and capacity building.
• Oversee financial and operational resources, ensuring compliance with budgets, donor requirements and internal policies.
• Represent Geneva Call to national authorities, UN agencies, INGOs, donors and other stakeholders, building strategic partnerships and advocating for the protection of civilians.
• Coordinate with Geneva Call headquarters units (Programme, Policy‑Research‑Legal, MEAL, Safety & Security, Finance, HR, etc.) to ensure alignment and support.

Required profile

• Extensive experience in senior leadership or country management within humanitarian, development or peace‑building contexts.
• Proven ability to work in complex security environments and engage with armed groups and authorities.
• Strong track record in programme design, fundraising, advocacy and partnership development.
• Excellent communication and diplomatic skills, with fluency in English; knowledge of Arabic is an asset.

Required skills

• Strategic planning and programme management.
• Financial oversight and donor reporting.
• Team leadership and staff development.
• Stakeholder engagement and negotiation.

What we offer

• A full‑time senior position within a respected international NGO.
• Opportunity to influence humanitarian policy and protect vulnerable populations in Iraq.
• Supportive professional environment with access to global expertise.