Programme Director and External Engagement (Caracas)

About the role

The Programme Director and External Engagement will lead the design and delivery of Save the Children’s programmatic, localization and fundraising strategies for the Venezuela country office, based in Caracas. The role also oversees advocacy, media campaigns, risk management and emergency preparedness, reporting to the Country Director.

Key responsibilities

• Design and implement the Country Strategic Plan, localization strategy and fundraising strategy aligned with Save the Children’s global priorities.
• Lead and manage four programme units (PQI, NBD, Localization, MEAL), ensuring quality standards, recruitment, training and performance management.
• Represent Save the Children with government, donors, UN agencies and partners, building strategic relationships and networks.
• Identify, monitor and mitigate programmatic, operational and reputational risks, and lead emergency preparedness planning.
• Support the Country Director in change management, continuous learning and high‑performance culture.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of senior management experience in international humanitarian contexts, such as Deputy Country Director or Head of Programs.
• Proven ability to design and deliver large‑scale programmes, manage budgets and lead multi‑disciplinary teams.
• Fluent in Spanish and English, with strong analytical, negotiation and communication skills.

Required skills

• Program development and localization expertise.
• Resource mobilisation and donor relations (multilateral, institutional, corporate).
• Risk management, emergency preparedness and strategic planning.
• People management, coaching and capacity building.