Programme Lead – Women’s Education & Vocational Skills (Somalia)

About the role

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is looking for a Programme Lead to drive the "Rajo Kaaba" project, which aims to improve literacy, numeracy, socio‑emotional skills and market‑relevant vocational training for young women and men (15‑35) across Somalia. The role will ensure alignment with the World Bank cooperative agreement, NRC standards and local regulations, while acting as the main liaison with the Ministry of Education, Culture and Higher Education (MoECHE) and the Project Implementation Unit.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic and technical leadership to achieve project objectives and maximise impact.
• Collaborate with project staff to develop, review and monitor annual work and performance plans.
• Offer technical and implementation support to field‑based education staff and partners, including guidance on work plans, procurement and reporting.
• Ensure compliance with Safe and Inclusive Programming (SIP) guidelines and address any breaches.
• Manage the overall project budget, monitor burn rates and resolve over‑ or under‑expenditure issues.
• Oversee subcontracted partners, providing financial and operational support and ensuring timely donor reporting.
• Coordinate project implementation activities, budgets and documentation in line with proposals and NRC policies.

Required profile

• Proven experience leading education or vocational training programmes in humanitarian or development settings.
• Familiarity with World Bank regulations and donor reporting requirements.
• Experience working closely with government ministries and implementation units.
• Strong ability to manage budgets, contracts and multi‑partner collaborations.
• Commitment to inclusive programming and gender‑responsive approaches.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact, donor‑funded project in Somalia.
• Collaboration with international partners and local authorities.
• Professional development within a reputable humanitarian organization.