Head of Protection and Gender

About NORCAP

NORCAP works to improve aid so that people affected by crises and climate change are better protected and empowered. We provide expertise and solutions to humanitarian development and peacebuilding partners because collaboration is the best way to reduce needs risks and vulnerability over time. Our aim is not only to reduce needs but also to create choice and opportunity for vulnerable people.

We achieve this through:

• Targeted expertise to strengthen partners response.
• Collaborative solutions to address unmet gaps and challenges.

Protection is central to NORCAPs vision. A cornerstone of our work is the inter-agency Gender Standby Capacity Project (GenCap) and the Protection Standby Capacity Project (ProCap) managed jointly with the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).

The Role

As Head of Protection and Gender Unit you will lead multiple teams covering all protection-related topics including Gender-Based Violence and Protection against Sexual Harassment and Abuse. You will manage projects that support UN agencies international organisations and national authorities while driving joint initiatives to improve sector-wide approaches to protection and gender.

This role requires an engaged proactive and experienced operational leader who can develop strategies manage resources and foster partnerships to deliver on NORCAPs commitment to protect people and promote equality.

Key Responsibilities

As Head of Unit you will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight across all protection and gender initiatives. Your responsibilities include:

• Project Management: Develop and oversee budgets operational goals and action plans; ensure timely delivery of projects within scope cost and quality standards; monitor progress and report internally and to donors.
• Strategic Leadership: Translate NORCAPs strategy into actionable plans; identify risks and implement mitigation measures; champion innovation and cross-unit collaboration to strengthen impact.
• People Leadership: Line-manage senior staff mentor team leaders and foster a culture of accountability and inclusion; ensure performance management and professional development across the unit.
• Partnership & Donor Engagement: Build and maintain strategic partnerships with UN agencies and other actors; lead donor engagement and fundraising efforts to expand the portfolio.
• Team Oversight: Set up and close teams as needed; provide guidance on day-to-day operations ensuring alignment with organisational priorities and compliance with security and duty-of-care standards.

We recommend reading the full job description before submitting your application.

What We Are Looking For

To excel in this role candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

• Minimum 7 years of relevant experience including at least 3 years in management/leadership.
• Postgraduate or professional qualification (Masters degree preferred; extensive experience may substitute).
• Strong knowledge of HR processes and people management.
• Experience in complex and volatile contexts desirable.
• Familiarity with UN agencies and humanitarian coordination systems is an advantage.
• Fluency in English; additional languages preferred.

Our Values & Commitment

All NRC employees are expected to work in accordance with the organisations values: dedicated innovative inclusive and accountable. These attitudes and beliefs guide our actions and relationships. NRC is committed to safety and wellbeing fostering a positive working culture where everyone feels valued empowered supported and safe. We have zero tolerance for exploitation abuse or inaction.

What We Offer

• Flexible working hours and hybrid arrangements.
• Meaningful work for a global organisation tackling humanitarian development and peacebuilding challenges.
• Grade 10 salary on NRCs pay scale.
• A new people-centric workspace: In January 2027 well move to Drivhuset (Urtegata 9)a fully renovated sustainable office in central Oslo designed for wellbeing and innovation.

How to Apply

Think youre a great fit Apply by 18 January 2026 (23:59 Oslo time).
Register your full employment history and education in English. Uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed.

NORCAP values diversity equity and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. Background checks will be conducted for shortlisted applicants. Feedback will be provided within four weeks after the closing date.