Country Coordinator – Kenya

Malteser International (MI) is the international humanitarian relief agency of the Sovereign Order of Malta. For over 60 years we provide relief and recovery for people during and following conflicts and disasters around the world. Christian values and humanitarian principles form the foundations of our work. In over 30 countries in Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, we support people in need – regardless of their religion, origin, or political convictions.

Malteser International (MI) has been making a significant impact in Kenya, focusing on crucial sectors such as health, emergency relief, refugee support, nutrition, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH). Through the dedication of experienced local staff and specialized partner organizations, MI is committed to providing life-saving humanitarian assistance. Our initiatives extend beyond immediate relief efforts, as we actively support the development of a robust emergency medical system in collaboration with government entities, academic institutions, and associations. Malteser International also plays a pivotal role in enhancing health service delivery capacities by empowering healthcare workers. Malteser International’s comprehensive approach addresses the unique challenges faced by the semi-nomadic population residing in arid and semi-arid lands. MI strives not only to respond to current needs but also to proactively prepare communities for potential future periods of drought. In essence, Malteser International’s work in Kenya exemplifies a holistic and sustainable approach to improving the well-being of those in need.

For its work in Nairobi, Kenya Malteser International is looking for a motivated Country Coordinator.

As Country Coordinator you will provide overall leadership, strategic direction, and operational management in line with Malteser International’s strategy, policies, procedures, and guidelines. Together with the Country Management Team you are responsible for a sound financial management of the allocated funds as well as for the acquisition of additional funding. As the country coordinator you represent MI at country level in coordination bodies and networks; you lead a team of national and expatriate staff and you are expected to take the responsibility for security management of all staff.

• Oversee program operations in compliance with Malteser International as well as donor regulations and procedures
• Conceptualise MI strategy and program in Kenya and contribute to developing new program ideas and concepts together with the program team and HQ
• Develop staff capacity of national and international staff to ensure that staff can fulfil the required administrative, financial and project cycle management targets
• Active networking and representation of Malteser International in Kenya vis-à-vis national authorities, national and international institutions, organizations, partners and donors
• Management and supervision of international and national staff with technical and managerial support to all team members in fulfilment of their duties according to project objectives
• Ensure implementation of security guidelines, monitor the overall security situation and adapt program implementation accordingly

• Graduate or post graduate degree with relevant experiences in emergency relief, rehabilitation and/or development aid
• Minimum 3 years overseas working experience in a (senior) management position in humanitarian assistance and development programs with experience in either of the sectors: WASH, health, livelihood and/or environment projects
• Experiences in working with and through national partner organizations, understanding of the localization approach
• Excellent and proven interpersonal communication and leadership skills to diplomatically manage relationships with local partners, authorities and donors
• Strong international project management skills, community-based approaches would be an asset
• Ability to establish and maintain good working relationships in a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural and multi-disciplinary environment
• Fluency in English with excellent verbal and written communication skills, German would be an asset

• A responsible and exciting job in a committed, international working environment
• Start Date: as soon as possible
• Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
• Duration of contract: 24 months (extendable)
• Salary according to MI salary scale, qualification and experience, insurance package

Malteser is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from all people, regardless of gender, confession or origin.

Malteser International is committed to safeguarding people within our programmes from exploitation, abuse and sexual harassment and has specific policies on this commitment (including a Code of Conduct) which outlines the expected behaviour and the responsibility of all staff, consultants and other organisational representatives. Malteser International conducts reference and background checks for all staff (including criminal records check for specific roles). Any candidate offered a job with Malteser International will be expected to sign MI’s Code of Conduct as an appendix to their contract of employment and agree to conduct themselves in accordance with the provisions of these documents.

Whether you work as a specialist on overseas service or in one of our regional offices – we offer you a challenging working environment in an experienced international team. More than 1,000 national and international staff are currently deployed in various crisis and disaster areas around the world as well as in our regional offices in Cologne and New York City. For more information please click here.