Head of Mission

CADUS e.V. (CADUS) is a non-profit, independent emergency aid organization based in Berlin. Our primary goal is to provide life-saving assistance to people in humanitarian crises. In addition to emergency medical deployments, another key focus of our work lies in the technical field. We are committed to both reconstruction efforts and the implementation of medical and technical training programs. In doing so, we place great emphasis on international exchange and the development of innovative concepts and technologies.

In close collaboration with local partners, we develop sustainable projects tailored to specific (disaster) conditions, actively involving affected communities in their design and implementation.

Our interdisciplinary approach enables both organizations and individuals to actively engage in humanitarian aid and develop new solutions to current challenges.

General Information

• Scope: 7 weeks infield rotation followed by 3 week R&R.
• Start Date: From ASAP until 31.12.2025 (with possibility of extension)
• Application Deadline: 21.03.2025
• Salary: 5808€ (TSP Contract)
• Work Location: Dnipro, Ukraine (with infield country travel and travel to headquarters in Berlin, Germany)
• Languages: High-level proficiency in English (spoken and written). Knowledge of a relevant local language is an asset.

Position Overview

The Head of Mission (HoM) for Ukraine is responsible for leading and managing CADUS‘ humanitarian mission and operations in the region. This role is crucial in ensuring strategic alignment, operational effectiveness, and mission readiness while maintaining compliance with humanitarian principles. The HoM will oversee program implementation, stakeholder engagement, security management, and operational coordination to ensure the success and sustainability of CADUS‘ activities in Ukraine.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide overall leadership and strategic direction for the mission, ensuring alignment with CADUS‘ objectives.
• Oversee mission planning, risk assessment, and operational execution.
• Ensure mission readiness and adaptability to dynamic humanitarian and conflict environments.

Operational & Financial Management

• Manage infield mission finances, including financial planning, monthly forecasting, and expenditure monitoring.
• Ensure efficient resource allocation in collaboration with Project/Finance Management at HQ.
• Oversee in-field logistics, including supply chain management (medical and non-medical).

Team & HR Management

• Oversee and management of mission staff, ensuring high-performance leadership in a conflict zone.
• Define roles, provide guidance, conduct performance evaluations, and coordinate staff briefings.
• Operationally manage the Staff Coordinator and Infield Medical Coordinators, and all CADUS staff involved in the Ukraine mission.

Security & Risk Management

• Identify, assess, and mitigate security risks to ensure the safety of personnel and assets.
• Develop and implement security protocols tailored to the specific risks of conflict zones.
• Serve as the primary security focal point for in-field teams, maintaining direct communication with staff.

Stakeholder Engagement & Advocacy

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders, including government officials, donors, partners, and local communities.
• Represent CADUS in high-level meetings, negotiations, and advocacy efforts.
• Support public relations, social media, and external fundraising initiatives in collaboration with HQ.

Program Development & Capacity Building

• Provide technical and managerial support to local partner organizations.
• Conduct needs assessments with governmental institutions, civil society organizations, and medical institutions.
• Work closely with HQ to enhance project development, including proposal writing for donors (EU, ECHO, German government, etc.).
• Integrate further programs into CADUS‘ overall strategy and mission execution.

Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

• Ensure timely and accurate reporting on mission activities to HQ and donors.
• Oversee in-field Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) activities, ensuring transparency and accountability.

Crisis & Emergency Response

• Lead crisis management efforts in high-risk situations, ensuring rapid and effective response.
• Develop contingency plans and emergency procedures in collaboration with HQ.

Specific Responsibilities

Medical Evacuation (Medevac) Program

• Oversee the budget and operational execution of the Medevac program.
• Ensure safety and security compliance for high-risk medical transport operations.
• Determine team locations and rotations, support medical logistics and procurement, and provide HR support as needed.
• Act as the key liaison between the Medevac team and external partners.
• Advise and support extraordinary operations and evacuations.

CADUS Education & Training Program

• Provide security and safety advice for training locations and travel routes.
• Promote training initiatives and facilitate partnerships with external stakeholders.
• Assist in identifying training needs and integrating the training program into CADUS‘ overall strategy.

Your Profile

Education & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in international relations, humanitarian studies, social sciences, or a related field, OR significant relevant experience in humanitarian aid.
• Additional certifications or training in humanitarian response, conflict resolution, or project management are advantageous.

Work Experience

• Proven experience in managing humanitarian projects or programs, ideally in conflict zones.
• Substantial experience working with NGOs, international organizations, or government agencies in humanitarian response.
• Demonstrated experience in team management and leadership roles, particularly in emergency settings or ambulance services.
• Prior experience with CADUS is an asset.

Technical & Other Skills

• Proficiency in relevant software and tools used in humanitarian operations.
• Valid driver’s license (Category B minimum, C1 preferred) and experience driving manual vehicles.

Knowledge & Competencies

• Strong understanding of humanitarian principles, international humanitarian law, and the challenges of working in conflict zones.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to work effectively with local communities, government officials, and partner organizations.
• Proven leadership and decision-making skills, with the ability to inspire and manage teams in high-pressure environments.
• Comprehensive understanding of security issues in conflict zones and the ability to implement safety measures.
• Strong networking and coordination skills to collaborate with other humanitarian agencies and local partners.
• High cultural awareness and sensitivity to work effectively in diverse environments.
• Strong commitment to humanitarian principles, ethics, and CADUS‘ Code of Conduct.

What We Offer

• A meaningful role in a progressive humanitarian organization.
• A dedicated and diverse team committed to impactful work.
• Compensatory time off for overtime.
• The opportunity to shape innovative humanitarian solutions.

We explicitly encourage individuals affected by structural discrimination to apply for positions at CADUS.