Country Director – Syria (National Position)

About the role

The Country Director is the senior representative of Near East Foundation in Syria, responsible for leading the organization’s mission, programs, and operations. Reporting to the COO, the role requires overseeing program quality, strategic transition, and compliance while navigating a complex, high‑risk environment. The position is open to Syrian nationals only and starts as soon as possible.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall leadership of NEF’s program portfolio in Syria, ensuring relevance, quality, and impact.
• Oversee program design, implementation, adaptive management, and promote learning and innovation.
• Lead the transition to in‑country management, aligning operational areas and adapting the engagement model to evolving political contexts.
• Conduct context and scenario analysis to inform strategic decisions.
• Ensure strict adherence to sanctions frameworks, donor requirements, and NEF policies, overseeing vetting processes.
• Represent NEF externally, building partnerships and maintaining stakeholder relationships.

Required profile

• Syrian national with extensive senior leadership experience in NGOs or development organizations.
• Strong judgment and ability to operate across fragmented governance structures and shifting regulatory frameworks.
• Proven experience managing high‑risk, complex environments and leading program portfolios.
• Excellent strategic thinking, communication, and stakeholder management skills.

Required skills