Head of Field Office

Deadline For Applications

October 15, 2025

Hardship Level

C

Family Type

Family

Family Type

Family

Residential location (if applicable)

Grade

NOC

Staff Member / Affiliate Type

National Professional Officer

Reason

Regular > Regular Assignment

Target Start Date

2025-11-01

Standard Job Description

Head of Field Office

Organizational Setting and Work Relationships

Head of a UNHCR Field Office (HoFO) is a senior managerial position within a given country operation. The incumbent carries the full delegated authority of the UNHCR Representative (or the Head of Sub-Office) of the country, who will exercise entire supervisory managerial responsibility over the position. The position, on the other hand, provides all information on developments in relation to the protection (legal protection issues relating to the persons of concern to UNHCR), security (Physical security in relation to the UNHCR staff and the persons of concern to UNHCR) and operational matters (programme and office management / administration) within the domain of its geographical area of responsibility to the UNHCR Representative on a regular and timely manner. Subject to the specific legal or socio economic or security developments in the Area of Responsibility (AOR), Representative will direct and guide the Head of Field Office to take the most appropriate course of action. Concerning overall physical security concerns, HoFO will liaise directly with the competent UN security coordinator while keeping the UNHCR Representative fully informed.

While the functional responsibility of a Head of Field Office will always remain the same despite its grade level, the other parameters (therefore the depth and breadth of the competencies) such as the size of the population of concern to UNHCR, their specific legal/security concerns, volume of assistance, Number of operational / Implementing partners and the size of the Office (i.e. number of UNHCR staff and their grade levels) will determine the appropriate grade level. The operational autonomy also depends upon the same parameters/competencies.

As the most senior UNHCR staff member within the given geographical area, he/she is required to liaise with all the relevant senior government officials, security organs in the area, the Head of various Non-Governmental Organisations (both national and internationals based in the area), Civilian/tribal leaders/elders, local opinion makers and the local media net-work to ensure his/her assigned responsibilities are effectively and efficiently discharged.

As the extended field representative of UNHCR at the front line of High Commissioner’s operations, he/she remain as the effective advocate and assistant to the local authorities to ensure that the respective government authorities in the area implement their conventional responsibilities in favour of refugees and others of concern to UNHCR.

All UNHCR staff members are accountable to perform their duties as reflected in their job description. They do so within their delegated authorities, in line with the regulatory framework of UNHCR which includes the UN Charter, UN Staff Regulations and Rules, UNHCR Policies and Administrative Instructions as well as relevant accountability frameworks. In addition, staff members are required to discharge their responsibilities in a manner consistent with the core, functional, cross-functional and managerial competencies and UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity and respect for diversity.

Duties
- Monitor and report on the implementation of refugee conventional responsibilities and international obligations of the local authorities Vis a Vis the population of concern to UNHCR within the given geographical area; based on local situations/developments make appropriate recommendation to the UNHCR Representative/HoSO.
- Advocate and promote UNHCR standards concerning the treatment of asylum seekers, refugees and returnees as well as IDPs, where applicable; Advocate, promote and encourage the concerned authorities and local opinion makers to uphold established UNHCR standards that have become the international norms.
- Ensure that the basic needs of the concerned population are properly assessed with the participation of the beneficiaries themselves, the host governments and/or the competent Implementing partners and/or UNHCR itself.
- Subject to the needs, ensure that the planning, formulation and budgeting of identified assistance projects are done as per UNHCR programme cycle; upon approval of assistance project, ensure the timely implementation and rigorous monitoring of identified assistance activities
- Ensure through the subordinate staff that all deadlines for monitoring and reporting of UNHCR operational activities (i.e. include assistance as well as Administrative) are met on a regular basis.
- Manage all UNHCR resources, both human, financial/material, at an optimum level for the wellbeing of the concerned population and the UNHCR staff.
- Ensure that all security measures of UNHCR office (and residential, where ever applicable) compounds are always up to date; any security breaches and/or potential security threat should be reported immediately to competent UN security coordinator in the country.
- Ensure that staff welfare, both in terms of working and living conditions, are maintained at a satisfactory level within the constraints in the operational area; this requires remaining current in health and medical facilities locally available and evacuation options available in a moment of medical urgency.
- Guide, coach and advocate the subordinate staff to maintain highest standards of conduct and behaviour thorough one's own practice and deeds.
- Prepare and submit regular reports, both verbally and written, to the UNHCR Representative/HoSO. In the event of substantial telephone conversation that leads to specific action or non-action, it should be recorded and share with the other party.
- Any other responsibilities/functions deemed necessary or as delegated by the UNHCR Representative of the country in order to meet the level of the services in the organization.
- Represent UNHCR in inter-agency fora and with local authorities in the AOR.
- Enforce compliance with UNHCR's global protection, programme, finance, human resources and security policies and standards.
- Submit project proposals for assistance to refugees and other persons of concern to UNHCR Representation or Sub-Office in coordination with local authorities and NGOs.

- Lead risk assessments and discussions with team(s) to proactively manage risks and seize opportunities impacting objectives. Ensure that risk management principles are integrated in decision-making both at strategic and operational levels. Allocate resources for planned treatments with resource requirements in Strategic Plans. Ensure that risks are managed to acceptable levels and escalate, as needed. If a Risk Owner, designate the Risk Focal Point and certify that the annual risk review is completed and ensure that the risk register is updated during the year, as needed.
- Perform other related duties as required.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Professional Work Experience
Years of Experience / Degree Level
For P3/NOC - 6 years relevant experience with Undergraduate degree; or 5 years relevant experience with Graduate degree; or 4 years relevant experience with Doctorate degree

Field(s) of Education
Management;
Personnel Administration;
Law;
Political Science;
International Relation;
Economics;
or other relevant field.

Certificates and/or Licenses
HCR Management Lrng Prg;
HCR Managing Operatns Lrng Prg;
(Certificates and Licenses marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Relevant Job Experience
Essential
In-depth knowledge in all aspects of UNHCR's Field level operation.  Applied experience of protection principles, operational arrangements/standards in relation to protection, assistance, UNHCR office management and staff administration. Should be conversant in the current priorities in the organisation and existing mechanisms within the organisation to implement those priorities.
Desirable
Working experience both in UNHCR HQ and/or a Regional Office and the Field

Functional Skills
IT-Computer Literacy
PR-International protection concepts and principles
MG-Office Management
HR-Administration of Staff Contracts and Benefits
UN-UN/UNHCR Mandate and Global Strategic Priorities
IT-Microsoft Office Productivity Software
(Functional Skills marked with an asterisk* are essential)

Language Requirements
For International Professional and Field Service jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English.
For National Professional jobs: Knowledge of English and UN working language of the duty station if not English and local language.
For General Service jobs: Knowledge of English and/or UN working language of the duty station if not English.

All UNHCR workforce members must individually and collectively, contribute towards a working environment where each person feels safe, and empowered to perform their duties. This includes by demonstrating no tolerance for sexual exploitation and abuse, harassment including sexual harassment, sexism, gender inequality, discrimination and abuse of power.

As individuals and as managers, all must be proactive in preventing and responding to inappropriate conduct, support ongoing dialogue on these matters and speaking up and seeking guidance and support from relevant UNHCR resources when these issues arise.

This is a Standard Job Description for all UNHCR jobs with this job title and grade level. The Operational Context may contain additional essential and/or desirable qualifications relating to the specific operation and/or position. Any such requirements are incorporated by reference in this Job Description and will be considered for the screening, shortlisting and selection of candidates.

Desired Candidate Profile

• The candidate should have demonstrated strong protection background and proven managerial and leadership skills in humanitarian and field operations.
• Strong protection and coordination capacity, especially in conflict or post-conflict settings.
• Strong knowledge of UNHCR’s mandate, protection principles, and field operations, ideally in emergency, post-conflict, or return/r(e)integration contexts.
• Proven leadership and management skills including team supervision and multi-sectoral programme coordination.
• Excellent understanding of local political, social, and security dynamics in northern Mozambique.
• Demonstrated capacity to advocate with authorities and maintain collaborative relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• Ability to operate effectively under security restrictions and adapt to changing environments.
• Fluency in English and Portuguese is essential and fluency in local languages is a significant advantage.
• Resilient, adaptable, with strong interpersonal and communication skills.

Required languages (expected Overall ability is at least B2 level):

English

,

Portuguese

,

Desired Languages

,

,

Operational Context

Occupational Safety And Health Considerations:

To view occupational safety and health considerations for this duty station, please visit this link:

https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel

Nature Of Position:

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) is mandated to protect and assist persons in need of international protection, including refugees, asylum seekers, stateless persons, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and returnees. UNHCR Mozambique maintains operations through its main office in Maputo, a sub-office in Pemba, a field office in Nampula, and field units in Cabo Delgado.

The Head of Field Office (NOC) in Nampula provides leadership and oversight of UNHCR protection, assistance, and operational activities in the Nampula Area of Responsibility (AOR). The incumbent is responsible for ensuring that UNHCR’s refugee protection mandate is effectively implemented in line with international standards, national laws, and UNHCR’s policies. The incumbent will represent UNHCR at the Area Humanitarian Country Team (AHCT) and at the provincial COE meetings. The position reports to the Head of Sub-Office in Pemba

The role requires a high level of autonomy and responsibility, managing complex operational environments, maintaining strong coordination with local authorities, government counterparts, UN agencies, and implementing partners. The Head of Field Office ensures that UNHCR’s assistance and protection programmes are timely, effective, and responsive to the needs of persons of concern.

Living And Working Conditions:

Nampula is a key regional center in northern Mozambique and is designated as a C, family duty station with moderate security risks.

Mozambique experiences a tropical climate with a wet season (October to March) bringing heavy rains and occasional cyclones, and a dry season (May to August) characterized by sunny, pleasant weather. Temperatures generally range between 13°C and 24°C, with occasional cooler air masses.

While the security situation in Nampula is relatively stable compared to Cabo Delgado, moderate risks persist, including crime and regional instability. UNHCR staff must comply with UNDSS security protocols and maintain situational awareness. Medical facilities in Nampula are limited but include public health centers and some private clinics. Malaria is endemic, requiring preventive measures. Recommended vaccinations include diphtheria, hepatitis A, tetanus, and typhoid. Safe drinking water is not readily available from the tap.

Nampula is accessible by road and air, with variable road conditions. Transport infrastructure supports UNHCR’s operational needs but requires caution due to traffic hazards.
Housing is available with monthly rents between USD 1,300 and 1,600. Markets, supermarkets, and basic entertainment options exist but are limited. Telecommunication services are available but can be inconsistent, particularly in remote areas.
 

Additional Qualifications

Skills

Education

Bachelor of Arts: Economics, Bachelor of Arts: International Relations, Bachelor of Arts: Law, Bachelor of Arts: Management, Bachelor of Arts: Personnel Administration, Bachelor of Arts: Political Science

Certifications

HCR Management Learning Program - UNHCR, Programme Management (PM) 1 - UNHCR

Work Experience

Competencies

Accountability, Analytical thinking, Client & results orientation, Commitment to continuous learning, Communication, Empowering & building trust, Judgement & decision making, Leadership, Managing performance, Managing resource, Organizational awareness, Planning & organizing, Political awareness, Strategic planning & visions, Teamwork & collaboration

Unhcr Salary Calculator

https://icsc.un.org/Home/SalaryScales

Compendium

Additional Information

Functional Clearance

This position doesn't require a functional clearance