Chief, Preparedness and Humanitarian Response Division (P)

The International Organization for Migration seeks a Director to lead its Preparedness and Humanitarian Response Division in Geneva, overseeing global crisis readiness, coordination, and emergency operations.

This senior leadership position directs IOM’s institutional strategy to build a coherent, organization-wide approach to crisis preparedness and humanitarian action. The role ensures timely, effective implementation of the Preparedness and Humanitarian Response portfolio across all regions, operating within the humanitarian–development–peace nexus to mitigate crisis impacts and deliver coordinated support to affected communities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee IOM’s emergency readiness and humanitarian operations, guaranteeing compliance with established standards and coordination protocols.
• Align and unify emergency preparedness and response standards alongside global policies.
• Monitor early warning systems and horizon-scanning to activate preparedness measures and anticipatory actions.
• Direct the strategic Preparedness Learning Pathway aimed at strengthening state-level emergency capacities and risk reduction strategies.
• Grow standby partnerships and oversee the Deployment Roster to enable rapid surge responses.
• Coordinate IOM’s humanitarian emergency interventions, including the Global Rapid Response Mechanism.
• Deliver expert strategic counsel and guidance to maintain high-quality programming across the organization.
• Champion local ownership and empowerment, integrating programming and Accountability to Affected Populations.
• Supervise global supply and logistics operations to distribute life-saving materials efficiently.
• Represent IOM’s humanitarian initiatives and advocacy externally, including participation in the Inter-Agency Standing Committee.

Requirements

• Master’s degree in Political Science, Social Science, International Studies, Public Administration, Economics, Engineering, Earth Sciences, or a closely related discipline, combined with ten years of professional experience.
• Alternative: University degree in the aforementioned fields with twelve years of relevant professional experience.
• Minimum of ten years in senior management and leadership roles within humanitarian and development sectors, preferably with international organizations.
• Proven track record in leading emergency preparedness initiatives and climate-related actions.
• Experience working within the UN system, especially in leading or coordinating institutional reform, is highly valued.
• Demonstrated ability to manage teams and apply diverse leadership competencies.
• Full professional proficiency in English, both spoken and written.

Nice to have

• Functional knowledge of French and/or Spanish is considered an asset.

What the company offers

• The organization is dedicated to cultivating a respectful, inclusive, and supportive work environment where staff can thrive professionally and feel appreciated.
• Reasonable accommodations are provided throughout the recruitment process as needed.

About the company

The International Organization for Migration advocates for humane and orderly migration to benefit all stakeholders, while actively saving lives and protecting individuals on the move. The organization upholds core values of inclusion, respect for diversity, integrity, transparency, professionalism, courage, and empathy in its global mission.

• Commitment to humane and orderly migration for mutual benefit.
• Focus on saving lives and protecting displaced populations.
• Strong emphasis on inclusion and respect for diversity.
• Values integrity, transparency, and professionalism.
• Encourages courage and empathy in all operations.