The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) is currently seeking a dynamic and results-driven professional to join its Africa Regional Office team in Nairobi, Kenya, for a six-month consultancy assignment. This opportunity is specifically tailored for an individual with a passion for humanitarian action and a keen understanding of emergency response and capacity building, particularly within the framework of the Disaster Response Emergency Fund (DREF).
With over 40% of global DREF operations based in Africa, the region plays a pivotal role in shaping and implementing IFRC’s strategic disaster response initiatives. As the DREF evolves through strategic improvements aimed at boosting the quality, accessibility, and efficiency of its funding mechanisms, IFRC is focused on enhancing National Societies’ understanding and execution of the new modalities. This includes managing anticipatory actions, meeting reporting obligations, and aligning with Results-Based Management (RBM) practices.
To strengthen this commitment, IFRC is looking for a Consultant – Emergency Operations who will play a key role in clearing reporting backlogs, enhancing awareness of new DREF systems, and supporting the rollout of operational improvements across the continent.
Position: Consultant, Emergency Operations
- Vacancy No.: S14033
- Contract Type: Consultant
- Application Deadline: 23-Apr-2025
- Job Posted On: 09-Apr-2025
- Country: Kenya
- Duty Station: Nairobi
- Duration: 6 Months
- Grade: Consultant (Not Applicable)
Organizational Context
This consultancy aligns with IFRC Strategy 2030, which promotes power and inclusion, local response leadership, and strengthened disaster management frameworks. It is aimed at enhancing accountability and operational capacity of National Societies (NS) across the African region.
The consultant’s work will be central to supporting the implementation of the Africa DREF Improvement Plan 2024, mitigating current challenges such as:
- Significant backlog in DREF reporting, which affects the eligibility of NSs.
- Limited understanding of newly introduced criteria for Response and Anticipatory Action (AA).
- Capacity gaps in managing DREF operations under revised procedures and systems.
Job Purpose
The consultant will be responsible for:
- Clearing the backlog of DREF reports to improve eligibility and reporting compliance.
- Disseminating updated DREF guidelines and procedures across National Societies.
- Supporting the roll-out and monitoring of the Africa Regional DREF Improvement Plan.
- Enhancing accountability and reporting quality through capacity building and systems development.
Job Duties and Responsibilities
The consultant will undertake the following:
1. Clear Backlog of DREF Reports
- Review and update outstanding reports ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and alignment with donor and organizational expectations.
- Work closely with country cluster delegations and NSs to fast-track pending submissions.
2. Disseminate Key DREF Changes
- Conduct virtual and in-person training sessions on DREF procedures, RBM requirements, and reporting guidelines.
- Develop and share user-friendly dissemination materials (e.g., guides, presentations) tailored to the specific needs of National Societies.
3. Support the DREF Improvement Plan Implementation
- Provide technical support and mentorship to NSs on reporting and operational compliance.
- Collaborate with IFRC units and external stakeholders to streamline the implementation of the improvement plan.
- Identify emerging challenges in real-time and propose innovative solutions to enhance operational efficiency.
Alignment to IFRC Strategy 2030
The consultancy contributes to the following IFRC priorities:
- Values, Power and Inclusion: Promoting inclusive humanitarian values and strengthening local leadership.
- Accountability: Ensuring that reports are timely and accurately reflect operational impact and donor expectations.
- Local Capacity Strengthening: Building long-term sustainability and self-reliance among National Societies in Africa.
Key Focus Areas
- DREF compliance and reporting
- Dissemination of new tools and processes
- Quality assurance in emergency response
- Results-based management
- Capacity building and mentorship
Working Conditions
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya (Africa Regional Office)
- Contract Type: Consultant
- Duration: 6 months
- Accompanied Status: Not Applicable
- Duty Station Status: Not Applicable
Education, Experience, Skills, and Languages
Please refer to the attached Terms of Reference for detailed information about the required qualifications, experience, competencies, and technical skills. This includes desirable language proficiencies, preferred experience working with humanitarian organizations, and specific knowledge of DREF procedures.
Refer to the attached TOR for more details:
[TERMS OF REFERENCE FOR CONSULTANCY – Reporting.pdf]
Why Join IFRC as a Consultant?
By taking on this consultancy, you will:
- Directly impact the quality and timeliness of emergency response funding in Africa.
- Play a pivotal role in strengthening disaster preparedness and response capacity.
- Be part of a dynamic and collaborative team committed to humanitarian excellence.
- Contribute to one of the most strategic IFRC interventions that supports local leadership in crisis situations.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply through the IFRC online recruitment platform.
Apply Now
Application Deadline: 23-Apr-2025
Ensure you submit your application on time and in full. Early applications are highly encouraged, as review will be on a rolling basis.
If you are passionate about strengthening disaster response operations, empowering local actors, and ensuring effective humanitarian action in Africa, this consultancy is the opportunity for you.
Be the change. Make a difference. Join IFRC’s mission to save lives and build resilient communities.
