Director of Programs and Operations – Iraq

Qualifications and Experience

• University degree in business administration, international development, management, social sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum 7–10 years of relevant professional experience in program and operations management within humanitarian, development, or recovery contexts.
• Strong experience managing operations, grants, compliance, procurement, administration, and multi-sector projects.
• Demonstrated experience working with international NGOs, donors, local partners, and governmental stakeholders in Iraq.
• Good understanding of the Iraqi operational, administrative, and regulatory environment, including coordination with DNGO and relevant authorities.
• Experience managing teams and coordinating across multiple departments and geographic locations.
• Strong organizational, communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
• Fluency in Arabic and professional working proficiency in English required.

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in senior management or deputy leadership roles within Iraq.
• Experience working in complex and multi-governorate operational environments.
• Familiarity with donor-funded programming, compliance requirements, and partnership management.
• Experience supporting localization, institutional strengthening, and capacity development initiatives.

NEF will accept applications on a rolling basis until the position is filled. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. The deadline will be on May 28, 2026.

To apply:

Please apply by submitting the following documents on the Near East Foundation’s career page at: 

https://neareast.bamboohr.com/careers/530?source=aWQ9MTY%3D 

1. Cover letter outlining relevant experience and skills based on the requirements outlined above;
2. Curriculum Vitae;
3. List of three references (including one from current, or most recent, employer).

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Near East Foundation by visiting the NEF website at www.neareast.org.

The Near East Foundation promotes Equal Opportunities for all applicants seeking employment and NEF employees.

Pre-employment Checks

Any Employment with the Near East Foundation will be subject to the following checks prior to start date:

• A satisfactory Restricted Party Screening;
• Receipt of satisfactory references;
• Proof of eligibility to work in the national location for this role.

NEF’s strength is its people. Our team is our fuel to achieving the innovation, quality programming, community focus, mutual trust, sustainability, and learning needed to realize our mission. To help our team thrive, we support a working structure that prioritizes flexibility, personal commitments, and staff well-being while promoting a work culture of teamwork, collaboration, respect, integrity, and excellence.

As an international organization, we value a truly diverse workforce and prioritize a culture of inclusivity and belonging. We strive to create a high-achieving work environment informed by different cultures, perspectives, and experiences. With a commitment to diversity, equality, equity, and inclusion in all we do, our aim is to ensure that people feel heard, protected, and empowered to contribute to NEF’s mission from day one.