Country Director Haiti (D/F/M) 100% based in Port-Au-Prince (depending on the security situation)

Helvetas is an organization specialized in development cooperation and humanitarian response, anchored in Switzerland, and operating in over 35 countries across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, Latin America and the Middle East. Our vision is a just world in which all people determine the course of their lives in dignity and security, using environmental resources in a sustainable manner

For Haiti we are seeking a motivated and empathetic professional to join our organization as per beginning of 2027.

Helvetas has been active in Haiti for more than 40 years. The Haiti programme focuses on adaptation to climate change, environmental governance, economic development and humanitarian response with a nexus approach. Helvetas aims at strengthening the capacities of local actors and works closely with government institutions, civil society organisations and other local partners. Gender, social equity and conflict sensitive implementation approaches coupled with a focus on policy dialogue contribute to sustainable development.

YOUR MAIN TASKS

  • Provide strategic leadership for the Haiti country programme in a fragile and rapidly evolving context and ensure its efficient and effective implementation in line with Helvetas’ organisational policies and the country strategy.
  • Ensure efficient human resources, financial and administrative management and compliance with organisational policies and guidelines.
  • Ensure that Helvetas’ working principles are consistently applied and that the programme strategy is translated into meaningful results.
  • Ensure appropriate security and risk management, duty of care and crisis preparedness for the country programme.
  • Build and nurture strong relationships with central and local government institutions, strategic donor partners, and non-governmental development partners.
  • Lead and actively contribute to acquisition and donor engagement efforts to diversify and further consolidate a sound project portfolio for Helvetas in Haiti.
  • Represent HELVETAS towards government authorities, donors, international organisations and other strategic partners.
  • Conduct regular supervision visits to operational areas to identify opportunities to strengthen the relevance, quality, and impact of Helvetas’ support to local communities and implementing partners.
  • Motivate, coach, and manage the Helvetas Haiti Team.

YOUR QUALIFICATIONS

  • Academic degree at Master’s level or equivalent in Social or Natural Sciences, Economics, Development Studies, or a related field.
  • At least 10 years of professional experience in development cooperation and/or humanitarian response, including at least 5 years in a senior management position.
  • Solid experience in managing development and humanitarian programmes in fragile and rapidly evolving contexts, ideally with practical experience of humanitarian-development nexus approaches.
  • Proven experience in security and risk management, crisis preparedness and response, including duty of care responsibilities in fragile and volatile contexts.
  • Excellent leadership qualities, with proven experience in coaching and developing individuals and teams in intercultural contexts.
  • Sound knowledge and experience in project cycle management, financial management, outcome-based monitoring and evaluation systems, strategic planning, and budgeting processes.
  • Strong track record in networking, policy dialogue with government institutions and external support agencies, and successful acquisition of projects and mandates.
  • High level of negotiation and influencing skills and capacity to develop and maintain strong relationships with all stakeholders
  • Strong awareness of gender and social justice issues, as well as conflict-sensitive programme management.
  • Excellent communication skills, combined with strong conceptual, intercultural and strategic thinking competencies.
  • Fluency in French and English, including excellent French writing skills; knowledge of Haitian Creole or German is an asset.
  • Readiness to live and work in a fragile safety and security context.

OUR OFFER

At Helvetas, you will be part of a purpose-driven organization where your work creates meaningful global impact. We foster a caring and collaborative culture built on trust, flexibility, and accountability. You will grow in a professional environment that values integrity, empathy, and continuous learning. → We care. We commit.

Applications from both national and international candidates are welcome. This position is offered on a two-year international contract, with the possibility of extension. Attractive working conditions and a stimulating and challenging position. This post is a non-family duty station.

READY TO APPLY?

Please submit your complete application (motivation letter, CV, and certifications) via our online portal. For any questions related to this position please contact Esther Belliger, Continental Coordinator Latin America & Caribbean, Tel. +41 313 85 10 11, or visit our website www.helvetas.org.

To learn more about Helvetas and our mission & vision, visit our website http://www.helvetas.org
Connect with us on LinkedIn: Helvetas LinkedIn Page and Follow us on Instagram @Helvetas_ch

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