Deputy Director, Programs Job at IRC Uganda - Senior NGO Role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Uganda is seeking a highly experienced and strategic Deputy Director, Programs to join our senior leadership team. This is a senior-level opportunity for a seasoned humanitarian professional to oversee programmatic excellence and impact across Uganda.

About IRC Uganda:
The IRC responds to the world's worst humanitarian crises, helping people to survive, recover, and rebuild their lives. In Uganda, we work to support refugees and host communities with integrated health, protection, economic recovery, and education services.

Key Responsibilities & Duties:
- Provide strategic leadership and oversight for all IRC Uganda programs, ensuring alignment with country strategy and humanitarian principles.
- Lead programme development, design, and quality assurance, promoting innovation and evidence-based approaches.
- Ensure effective grants management, donor compliance, and timely reporting for all projects.
- Strengthen monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning (MEAL) systems to demonstrate impact and inform programme decisions.
- Represent IRC with key stakeholders, including government partners, donors, UN agencies, and NGO consortiums.
- Mentor and build the capacity of programme staff, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
- Ensure all programmes adhere to humanitarian standards, including safeguarding and gender equality.

Requirements & Qualifications:
- Master's degree in International Development, Social Sciences, Public Health, or a related field.
- Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive senior management experience in programme leadership within the humanitarian or development sector.
- Proven track record in strategic planning, programme design, and securing major donor funding (e.g., USAID, FCDO, EU, UN).
- Strong financial management and grants compliance expertise.
- Excellent leadership, representation, and interpersonal skills.
- In-depth knowledge of the Ugandan context and the refugee response landscape.
- Fluency in English is required.

What We Offer:
- A competitive international NGO salary and benefits package.
- Comprehensive medical insurance and pension scheme.
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth.
- The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of vulnerable populations in Uganda.
- A collaborative and mission-driven work environment.

How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit their application via the official IRC careers portal. The closing date for applications is 5th January 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. IRC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and considers all applicants on the basis of merit without regard to race, sex, colour, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability.