Country Director, Democratic Republic of Congo

About the role

The Country Director will lead Search for Common Ground’s operations in the Democratic Republic of Congo, overseeing the full life‑cycle of programs from design to close‑out. Reporting to the Regional Director for Central and East Africa, the role combines strategic leadership, operational management and external representation.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall oversight for the implementation of the DRC portfolio, ensuring alignment with donor policies and organisational standards.
• Lead staffing, operations and employee development for the country office, including supervision of senior staff and development of a staffing plan.
• Ensure compliance with internal policies, donor requirements and legal obligations.
• Oversee financial management, including budget development, forecasting, and coordination with finance teams.
• Produce quarterly and annual management reports and monitor program quality, learning and adaptive management.
• Lead engagement with international donors, government officials and other key stakeholders, representing Search at national and international events.
• Guide program design, proposal development and go/no‑go decisions for new opportunities.
• Drive strategy development, OKR setting and implementation for the country office.

Required profile

• Extensive senior‑level experience managing country programs in complex or conflict‑affected environments.
• Proven track record in financial oversight, compliance and donor relationship management.
• Strong leadership skills with experience supervising senior staff and building high‑performing teams.
• Demonstrated ability to engage governments, donors and international partners effectively.
• Excellent strategic thinking and operational planning capabilities.

Required skills