Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, humanitarian, Non-Profit, non-governmental organisation providing assistance to people in need as a result of natural and man-made disasters, irrespective of race, religion, ideology, or politics.

We are seeking to employ a candidate for the following position:

Head of Mission Assistant

 

Place of work: Erbil Governorate Deadline for application: 16/08/2025

 

 Main purpose of the job:

Provide support to the mission by assisting the Head of Mission in the administrative part of coordination tasks, ensuring a smooth relation with local and national authorities, contributing to the context analysis and follow-up, providing translations and interpreting in order to facilitate coordination tasks in the mission. The position may include field visits to different areas in Iraq.

 

Accountabilities:

• Assist the HoM in the context analysis, disseminate relevant context information to the coordination team, regularly inform them on key issues, update general information on the context for MSF internal documents, and advise on cultural appropriateness of organisational activities and individual behaviours
• Keep good knowledge of counterparts in different administrations and file field contacts (other NGO’s, UN agencies, local authorities…) verifying that they are easily accessible in order to facilitate contacts and meetings.
• At the request of the HoM, represents MSF in meetings (NGO, official bodies, administration…).
• Ensure the follow up of relevant administrative dossiers such as the MSF registration in a country, working permits, immigration policies, national protocols, etc.
• At the request of the HoM, prepare and conduct an information briefing focusing on the country context for International, Regional and Relocated Staff.
• Translate documents and act as an interpreter when needed.

 

MSFCH Context Specific Accountabilities:

• Lead and support to address administrative issues and have proactive attitude to get information regarding changes in procedures in the country while utilizing knowledge of understanding administrative challenges.
• Due to the complexity of the context in Iraq and KRG, the HoM assistant should have excellent analytical and critical skills to contribute to the analysis of the context and security in various reporting’s i.e. sitreps, Annual reports, project closer and other reports.
• As MSF works in a highly sensitive environment in KRG and Iraq, being able to comply with a high level of neutrality is crucial and represent it in managing key issues as advised by the HOM.
• Prepare briefings and presentation on Cultural sensitivity to both Kurdish and Arab culture while presenting it to HOM and other IMS.
• Being able to represent MSF and defend its values, modalities of action and activities.
• Establish networks and linkages with key government departments; understand the government structure, hierarchy and functionaling in various ministries and departments to facilitate MSF files/cases.
• Support the mission in administrative procedures in KRG and Federal Iraq as advised by HOM.
• Understand of the country and local context to contribute to security analysis as advised by HOM.
• Monitor country context and report all events/developments to HOM which has an impact ton MSF operation in the country.

Specific requirements for the role:

 

Education:	–  Essential: Master’s degree from recognized university or similar. –  Degrees in Arts, International Relations, Human sciences, Political studies, Humanitarian and Development studies, Business and Management is an asset.
Experience:	–  Essential: Previous experience/knowledge in humanitarian aid –  Very good understanding of the functioning of the different administrations on the local country regulations (critical need). –  Desirable: Experience in MSF is an asset, or other NGOs in developing countries.
Languages:	–  Essential: Proficiency in English is mandatory –  Fluent in Kurdish and Arabic.
Knowledge:	–  Essential: Essential computer literacy (word, excel and internet) –  Good balance between working independently and autonomously and working in a team
Competencies:	–  Results –  Teamwork –  Flexibility –  Commitment –  Stress Management

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 What we offer: 

• Legal contract and pay in accordance with MSF Salary Grid. (Level 07)
• The chance to gain professional development and to develop (career path, training, etc.) within the organisation.
• The opportunity to contribute to our objective of saving lives, alleviating suffering, and working with those most in need.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates are invited to submit their complete application file (Updated 2 pages CV + motivation letter+ Certifications – Graduation certificate + ID Card + References), Only applications with complete documentation will be considered. Any government employee shall submit Leave witout pay certificate and Non-object Letter from the respective Ministry.

 

By email to MSFCH-Erbil-Recruitment@geneva.msf.org

 

Please indicate “ERL- HOM Assistant”  in the e-mail title.

We recommend all applicants to write a cover letter introducing yourself, explaining why you are applying for the position, and highlighting why you believe you are suitable for the role. Ensure that your Resume clearly showcases your experience in HR, including specific roles and responsibilities. It is important to demonstrate your administrative skills, understanding of HR policies and procedures, and any experience in recruitment or personnel management. This will help us assess your suitability for the role and understand how your skills align with the job requirements.

 

 

Only English CVs are considered.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. (Please make sure your email and phone number are updated)

Your application will not be returned to you at any stage of the recruitment process.

Female Candidates are encouraged to apply.

Candidates are encouraged to apply early, as applications may be screened prior to the vacancy deadline.

 

The protection of your personal data is important to MSF. By submitting your application, you consent to MSF using your data only for the recruitment process to have all the information and documents necessary to proceed with the recruitment, validation of your application and selection of the most suitable candidate. Your data will be treated confidentially. Only people part of the recruitment process has access to your data. MSF does not sell your data under any circumstances. If you have any questions or requests, you can contact msfch-erbil-recruitment@geneva.msf.org.