INTERSOS is an independent humanitarian organization dedicated to assisting people affected by natural disasters, armed conflicts, and social exclusion. Guided by the principles of solidarity, justice, human dignity, and equality, the organization focuses on supporting vulnerable communities in crisis situations.
One of its key leadership roles is the Head of Mission position in Nigeria. This role is responsible for overseeing the organization’s humanitarian operations, ensuring effective program implementation, and representing INTERSOS at the national level.
Humanitarian Context in Northeast Nigeria
Northern Nigeria has faced a prolonged humanitarian crisis for more than a decade due to armed conflict and insecurity. The situation has had devastating consequences for communities across Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe states, often referred to as the BAY states.
Millions of people have been affected by violence and displacement. Many families have been forced to flee their homes, resulting in large numbers of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Communities in the region also face severe challenges including:
- Food insecurity and malnutrition
- Limited access to healthcare services
- Damaged infrastructure such as hospitals and water systems
- Increased gender-based violence affecting women and girls
- Disease outbreaks such as cholera caused by flooding and overcrowded living conditions
To address these challenges, INTERSOS implements integrated humanitarian programs covering multiple sectors.
INTERSOS Programs in Nigeria
INTERSOS currently operates humanitarian projects across several Nigerian states, including Borno, Adamawa, Yobe, and Zamfara. These projects aim to fill critical gaps in essential services and support vulnerable populations.
Key areas of intervention include:
- Protection services for vulnerable individuals and displaced communities
- Health and nutrition programs addressing medical needs and malnutrition
- Water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) initiatives
- Food security and livelihood support
- Camp Coordination and Camp Management (CCCM) for displaced populations
These programs are supported by major international donors such as humanitarian agencies and development partners.
Purpose of the Head of Mission Role
The Head of Mission acts as the primary representative of INTERSOS in Nigeria and leads the organization’s humanitarian response across the country. This leadership role involves overseeing strategy development, program implementation, and operational management.
The Head of Mission reports to the regional director and supervises the Senior Management Team (SMT). The position also involves coordinating closely with donors, government authorities, and humanitarian partners.
Through strategic planning and leadership, the Head of Mission ensures that INTERSOS programs effectively respond to humanitarian needs while maintaining the organization’s ethical and operational standards.
Key Strategic Responsibilities
One of the most important responsibilities of the Head of Mission is to guide the overall strategy and vision of INTERSOS operations in Nigeria.
Strategic duties include:
- Monitoring and analyzing the humanitarian and political situation in the country
- Identifying potential areas for new humanitarian interventions
- Designing and developing country strategies aligned with INTERSOS principles
- Identifying funding opportunities and supporting fundraising efforts
- Monitoring donor priorities and ensuring compliance with donor requirements
- Leading the development of project proposals and emergency response plans
These responsibilities ensure that INTERSOS programs remain relevant, impactful, and aligned with evolving humanitarian needs.
Representation and Advocacy
The Head of Mission also serves as the organization’s official representative in Nigeria. This includes building strong relationships with national authorities, international partners, and donor agencies.
Key representation responsibilities include:
- Maintaining productive communication with donors
- Representing INTERSOS in coordination forums and humanitarian meetings
- Ensuring compliance with national regulations and government procedures
- Advocating for humanitarian priorities and vulnerable populations
Effective diplomacy and negotiation skills are essential in maintaining partnerships that support humanitarian operations.
Team Leadership and Staff Management
Leading a large humanitarian team is another central aspect of the Head of Mission role. The position requires strong leadership and people management skills to guide both national and international staff.
Key staff management responsibilities include:
- Supervising the Senior Management Team
- Supporting staff performance and professional development
- Ensuring adherence to INTERSOS values and ethical standards
- Promoting teamwork and a productive working environment
- Encouraging collaboration across departments and field offices
Strong leadership helps maintain high staff morale and ensures efficient program implementation.
Financial and Operational Oversight
The Head of Mission also plays a critical role in managing the financial and operational aspects of the mission.
These responsibilities include:
- Overseeing the mission’s financial management with the Finance Coordinator
- Ensuring transparent and effective use of donor funds
- Managing operational resources and logistics processes
- Supporting supply chain systems and procurement procedures
Proper financial management is essential for maintaining donor trust and sustaining humanitarian programs.
Safety, Security, and Accountability
Operating in conflict-affected areas requires careful attention to safety and security. The Head of Mission holds ultimate responsibility for ensuring the safety of staff and operations.
Security and accountability responsibilities include:
- Developing and overseeing the country security plan
- Monitoring changes in the security context
- Coordinating with security advisors and regional offices
- Ensuring staff comply with safeguarding and protection policies
- Supervising complaint and feedback mechanisms for beneficiaries
These measures help protect both humanitarian workers and the communities they serve.
Qualifications and Experience Required
The Head of Mission role requires extensive experience in humanitarian leadership.
Typical requirements include:
Education
- University degree in project management, international affairs, development studies, or a related field.
Professional experience
- At least eight years of experience in management positions within humanitarian contexts
- Experience working with NGOs in developing countries
- Experience managing international donor grants
- Experience operating in high-risk or insecure environments
Candidates must also demonstrate strong leadership, analytical thinking, and decision-making abilities.
Final Thoughts
The Head of Mission position at INTERSOS in Nigeria is a senior leadership role that plays a vital part in coordinating humanitarian operations in one of the world’s most complex crisis environments. By guiding strategy, managing teams, and ensuring effective program implementation, the Head of Mission helps deliver life-saving assistance to vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
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