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- Tasks: Lead the HEROS 2.0 programme, shaping humanitarian response strategies and operations.
- Company: DAI, a key player in global humanitarian initiatives.
- Benefits: Influential role with opportunities to make a significant impact on global humanitarian efforts.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of humanitarian innovation and policy-making for the UK.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in humanitarian response and leadership in major donor-funded programmes.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and help shape the future of humanitarian aid.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ per year.
DAI will bid to deliver the UK Government’s flagship humanitarian programme: HEROS 2.0, a £217M+ initiative funded by FCDO. This programme will define the UK’s ability to respond rapidly and at scale to global humanitarian crises, protracted emergencies, and stabilisation challenges well into the 2030s. Building on HEROS 1.0, HEROS 2.0 will deliver enhanced capabilities across:
- Humanitarian & Conflict Early Warning & Analysis (EWAR)
- Expert Advisory Services
- Procurement & Logistics for Emergency Response
- Standby Partnership Deployments
- UNDAC Deployments
HEROS 2.0 is central to the UK’s humanitarian architecture, aligning with the Government’s Plan for Change, driving cost efficiency, leveraging technology (including AI), and strengthening partnerships across the international development and humanitarian industry.
The HEROS 2.0 Programme Director will be the face and driving force behind HEROS 2.0. They will lead a high-profile programme based at the heart of the UK’s global humanitarian response. This is a rare opportunity to shape policy, influence strategy, and deliver impact at scale.
- Provide strategic leadership for a complex, multi-faceted programme with global reach.
- Act as a trusted advisor to FCDO and senior stakeholders, ensuring alignment with UK foreign policy and humanitarian objectives.
- Lead innovation, embedding technology and best practice to enhance delivery and efficiency.
- Manage rapid response operations, ensuring readiness for crises and stabilisation efforts worldwide.
- Provide inclusive, people-centred leadership, that motivates and aligns teams of experts to deliver excellence at the highest level.
Applicant Requirements:
- Proven authority in humanitarian response, with extensive HQ and field leadership experience.
- Track record of leading major donor-funded programmes, preferably with FCDO; however experience with UN or other major donors is highly valued.
- Deep understanding of UK foreign policy and humanitarian priorities, with the ability to navigate political drivers and compliance requirements.
- Exceptional networks across FCDO, UN agencies, and the humanitarian sector.
- Experience in emergency deployments, including the rapid mobilisation of personnel and relief items.
- London-based or willing to relocate, with eligibility to work in the UK and attend regular HQ and FCDO meetings.
This is more than a leadership role; it’s an opportunity to shape the future of humanitarian response for the UK and its partners. You’ll operate at the highest levels of influence, lead a programme of global significance, and leave a lasting legacy in the humanitarian system.
For further details or a confidential discussion, please contact Chris Morgan via chris_morgan@dai.com.
HEROS 2.0 Programme Director employer: DAI
Contact Detail:
DAI Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land HEROS 2.0 Programme Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the humanitarian sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the latest trends in humanitarian response and UK foreign policy. Being well-informed will help you stand out as a candidate who’s not just qualified, but genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've led teams through crises or complex projects. This is your chance to demonstrate that you can be the driving force behind impactful programmes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace HEROS 2.0 Programme Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in humanitarian response and leadership. We want to see how your background aligns with the HEROS 2.0 objectives, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant achievements!
Showcase Your Networks: Since this role involves working closely with FCDO and other stakeholders, it’s crucial to mention your connections within the humanitarian sector. We’re looking for someone who can leverage these relationships, so let us know who you know and how you’ve collaborated in the past.
Demonstrate Strategic Thinking: In your application, emphasise your ability to think strategically about humanitarian challenges. We want to see examples of how you’ve influenced policy or driven innovation in previous roles, especially in relation to technology and efficiency.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure it gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at DAI
✨Know Your Humanitarian Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in humanitarian response. Understand the UK’s foreign policy and how it aligns with the HEROS 2.0 programme. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you're not just interested, but also knowledgeable.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Programme Director, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead diverse teams effectively. Prepare examples of how you've motivated teams in high-pressure situations or managed complex projects. Highlight your experience in fostering inclusive environments and driving innovation.
✨Network Like a Pro
Leverage your existing networks within FCDO, UN agencies, and the humanitarian sector. If you have contacts who can vouch for your expertise, mention them during the interview. This can help establish your credibility and show that you’re well-connected in the field.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific crises or operational challenges. Think through potential scenarios related to rapid response operations and be ready to discuss your strategic approach. This will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and readiness for the role.
