Director of Programs and Operations – Iraq

About the role

The Director of Programs and Operations – Iraq is a senior national leadership position at Near East Foundation (NEF). Based in Iraq, the role oversees the day‑to‑day management, coordination and oversight of NEF’s programmes and operational functions across the country, ensuring effective implementation, donor compliance and strong partnerships with local stakeholders.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee daily implementation of NEF programmes and projects, ensuring timely delivery and compliance with donor and organisational requirements.
• Coordinate between programme, finance, procurement, logistics, MEAL and administrative teams to ensure smooth project execution.
• Monitor project progress, identify implementation challenges and operational risks, and support adaptive management.
• Maintain and update project workplans, implementation targets, reporting timelines and operational priorities.
• Ensure country‑level operational functions comply with NEF internal policies, donor regulations and Iraqi legal requirements.
• Oversee procurement planning, logistics processes and management of project assets and offices.
• Coordinate with finance teams on budget monitoring, expenditure tracking and financial compliance.
• Support risk management, safety, security and duty‑of‑care measures for staff and operations.

Required profile

• Senior national leadership experience in programme and operations management.
• Proven ability to manage multi‑disciplinary teams and coordinate complex projects.
• Familiarity with donor compliance, procurement and logistical processes.
• Experience working with local authorities, partners and coordination structures in Iraq.

Required skills