Head of Mission Support

Main Purpose

Supporting the Head of Mission in security management and coordination tasks, ensuring a smooth relation with local and national authorities, contributing to the context analysis and follow-up,to the management of information, providing translations and interpretations according to MSF protocols, standards and procedures in order to facilitate the mission coordination tasks

Accountabilities

• Supporting the HoM in promoting and protecting the MSF image externally and assisting in context analysis, disseminating relevant context information to the coordination team, regularly informing them on key issues, updating general information on the context for MSF internal documents and advising on cultural appropriateness of organized activities and individual behaviors.
• Analyzing the risks and the security level of the context of the mission and assisting in conducting risk assessments and in the development, security plans for the mission and project. Advising the PC and HoM on aspects of security management
• Establishing and maintaining external relationships with relevant authorities and stakeholders. Keeping good knowledge of counterparts in different administrations and departments and keeping up to date records of field contacts (other NGOs, UN agencies, local authorities, etc.) verifying that they are easily accessible, in order to facilitate contacts and meetings.
•  Upon request from HoM representing MSF in meetings (NGOs, official bodies and administrations, etc.) and preparing full report. 
• Ensuring the follow up of relevant administrative dossiers such as the MSF registration in the country, working permits, immigration policies, national protocols, etc.
• preparing and conducting an information briefing, focusing on the country context for International Regional and Relocated Staff upon request from head of mission .
• Guiding and facilitating the management of MSF information and essential records and documents by the mission team, following MSF policies and guidelines.
• Translating sensitive documents and acting as an interpreter when needed. Writing letters and correspondences with officials and partners and preparing reports, internal memos and formal requests. Monitoring the correspondences in the absence of the HoM.
• Assisting in the elaboration of the advocacy plan of the mission in collaboration with the PC, MedCo and the Communications responsible and supporting its implementation and follow up.

Context Specific Accountabilities

• Assisting in coordinating and executing assessments related to security, networking, and other pertinent areas, as directed by the head of mission, to explore new operational opportunities for expanding activities in Lebanon.
• Monitoring political trends, speeches, and actions for potential indications of shifts in political dynamics that may escalate street tensions and/or security risks.
• Collaborating with the HoM in organizing and facilitating training sessions and workshops for staff members on topics such as cultural sensitivity, security protocols, and emergency response procedures, ensuring that all team members are adequately prepared to operate effectively within the mission's context.
• Collaborating with the HoM to develop and implement strategies for community engagement and building positive relationships with local stakeholders. This includes facilitating dialogue, addressing concerns, and fostering mutual understanding to support MSF's mission objectives and activities.
• Ensuring the appropriate representation of MSF during activities, meetings, and fieldwork, while actively avoiding any actions that could tarnish MSF’s image.
• Internally integrating activities with managers and field staff, and externally engaging with national authorities, international, and local stakeholders.

Requirements

Experience

Essential: Strong understanding of the workings of the different administrations of Lebanon

Essential: Previous experience working in political, security and humanitarian issues in Lebanon

Essential: Previous work experience in humanitarian aid with local or international non-governmental organizations (NGOs)

Knowledge

Essential: Advanced knowledge in Microsoft Office application (Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and Outlook)

Essential: Strong analytical abilities, comfortable working with numerical and economic data.

Essential: Exceptional communication and diplomatic prowess, encompassing proficient writing skills.

Competencies

People Management and Development

Commitment to MSF Principles

Behavioural Flexibility

Results and Quality Orientation

Teamwork and Cooperation