Country Director – Burkina Faso

About the role

The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is seeking a National Country Director to lead its programme in Burkina Faso. Based in Ouagadougou, the Director will oversee humanitarian and recovery operations for IDPs, refugees, returnees and host communities across multiple field offices.

Key responsibilities

• Provide overall strategic leadership and management of the IRC country programme, ensuring alignment with organisational mission and humanitarian principles.
• Represent the IRC as the primary legal liaison with government authorities, donors, UN agencies, NGOs and coordination platforms.
• Develop and maintain strategic relationships with Burkinabe authorities, institutional and private donors, the EU, UN agencies and local civil society.
• Lead programme design, implementation and monitoring across sectors such as protection, health, nutrition, WASH and economic recovery.
• Ensure rigorous risk management and compliance with safeguarding, accountability and security standards.
• Oversee staff recruitment, development, performance management and foster an inclusive, empowering work environment.

Required profile

• Proven senior leadership experience in humanitarian or development programmes, preferably at country‑level.
• Strong understanding of the political, security and socio‑economic context of Burkina Faso.
• Demonstrated ability to build strategic partnerships and diversify funding sources.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with fluency in English (French is an asset).
• Commitment to humanitarian principles of humanity, neutrality, impartiality and independence.

Required skills