Deputy Chief of Mission (P) – International Organization for Migration (IOM)
Deputy Chief of Mission (P) – International Organization for Migration (IOM)
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a leading inter-governmental organization established in 1951, working closely with governments, intergovernmental bodies, and non-governmental partners worldwide. As part of the United Nations migration system, International Organization for Migration (IOM) is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. It provides policy advice, technical assistance, and operational support to governments and migrants, ensuring safe, dignified, and well-managed migration systems globally.
We are currently recruiting for a senior leadership position within our Nigeria Country Office.
Job Title: Deputy Chief of Mission (P)
Job ID: 19904
Location: Abuja, Nigeria
Grade: P-5
Contract Type: Fixed-term (12 months, with possibility of extension)
Employment Type: Full-time
Organizational Context
Under the overall supervision of the Regional Director and direct supervision of the Chief of Mission (CoM), and in close coordination with Headquarters departments, the Deputy Chief of Mission (DCoM) plays a central leadership role in ensuring the effective functioning of the Country Office (CO).
The DCoM is responsible for ensuring coherence between programmes and support services, strengthening internal coordination, and enhancing the strategic direction of all operational activities. The role also contributes significantly to programme development, resource mobilization, and external engagement with key stakeholders, including government counterparts, donors, UN agencies, and implementing partners.
The position ensures that all IOM interventions in Nigeria are aligned with national priorities, regional strategies, the Global Compact for Migration (GCM), and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while meeting donor expectations and compliance standards.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Representation
- Support the Chief of Mission in representing IOM in Nigeria with government institutions, diplomatic missions, donors, NGOs, and UN agencies.
- Contribute to strategic direction, policy formulation, and operational planning for the Country Office.
- Provide leadership in strengthening the humanitarian-development-peace nexus in programme delivery.
Programme Development & Oversight
- Oversee the design, development, and implementation of country strategies and new programmes addressing migration challenges.
- Ensure effective coordination of all programme units and sub-offices.
- Supervise field operations to guarantee timely, efficient, and measurable delivery of results.
Resource Management & Compliance
- Strengthen risk management, compliance systems, and internal controls across all projects.
- Ensure adherence to IOM regulations, donor requirements, and financial management standards.
- Work closely with the Resource Management Unit to ensure transparent and accountable use of funds.
Partnerships & External Relations
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with donors, government institutions, and international partners.
- Support fundraising efforts and contribute to donor engagement strategies.
- Participate in inter-agency coordination mechanisms, including UN Country Team processes.
Coordination & Internal Management
- Facilitate coordination between programme and support units to ensure efficiency and coherence.
- Chair Senior Management Team meetings in the absence of the Chief of Mission.
- Provide strategic advice to improve organizational performance and operational effectiveness.
Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting
- Ensure strong monitoring systems are in place to track programme performance and impact.
- Oversee preparation of high-quality reports for donors, stakeholders, and internal governance structures.
- Promote data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement.
Additional Responsibilities
- Deputize for the Chief of Mission as required.
- Perform any other duties assigned to support organizational objectives.
Qualifications & Experience
Education
- Master’s degree in Political Science, Social Sciences, Law, International Relations, Business Administration, or related field with at least 10 years of relevant experience; OR
- University degree with at least 12 years of relevant professional experience.
(Accredited universities must be listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.)
Experience
- Extensive experience in programme management in humanitarian, stabilization, and development contexts.
- Strong background in inter-agency coordination and strategic engagement within the UN system.
- Proven leadership experience at senior level (Head of Office, Chief of Mission, or equivalent).
- Experience managing complex operations, donor relations, and multi-sector programmes.
- Strong exposure to migration, displacement, and development programming.
Skills & Competencies
- Strong knowledge of programme design, implementation, and evaluation.
- Excellent financial, administrative, and risk management capabilities.
- Strong diplomatic, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Ability to lead large teams in complex and dynamic environments.
- Strong strategic thinking and decision-making ability.
Languages
- Fluency in English (written and spoken) is required.
- Working knowledge of French or other UN languages is an advantage.
Core Values & Competencies
IOM promotes five core values: inclusion and respect for diversity, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy. The role also requires strong leadership, accountability, teamwork, communication, and strategic visioning competencies at a senior managerial level.
Application Deadline
22nd April, 2026 at 22:59 (Geneva time)
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the official recruitment portal:
