Hungary: SURGE LEARNING OFFICER

The IFRC is continuously seeking an improved humanitarian response for the benefit of the communities we serve and to improve National Society capacity. The IFRC have been engaged in various initiatives in an attempt to identify gaps and areas needing improvement including a two-year Global Tools Review. Based on the recommendations provided by the review, the IFRC started the implementation of a Surge Optimization process that is seeking to transform the system into one based on competencies and role-profiles.

As part of this process the IFRC is seeking a Surge Learning Officer to implement the new surge learning strategy, coordinate learning efforts and approaches between different actors and technical sectors, and support surge trainings and the connections between them based on the surge competency framework to have a better prepared staff and volunteer workforce responding to disasters.

The position is based in the IFRC Disaster Response Training Team in the Global Service Centre in Budapest. The Officer reports to the Surge Learning and Development Coordinator. Technical support will also be provided from the Surge Optimisation Reference Groups and the Surge Optimization process manager.

The IFRC Disaster Response Training Team aims to provide a comprehensive, well-balanced and aligned system of learning and development that is deployment needs-based, produces clear learning outcomes, provides equitable access for participation in L&D activities and is efficient in delivering value for money. As the Team was only recently established, the position will play a vital role in its development. The position is expected to be available for field missions as required.

Job duties:

1. Support refinement of exisiting RCRC surge training approach of all humanitarian sectors against recommendation of surge learning strategy and competency framework

• Operationalize the surge learning strategy, including the roll out of a competency-based learning and development initiative (roadmap, benchmarks, roll-out plan, transitional period planning and communication plan) working in close coordination with the competency framework reference group of the Surge Optimization;
• Map internal and external trainings against technical competency matrices to identify gaps and overlaps;
• Manage portfolio of learning needs across the organisation;
• Provide methodological support in restructuring existing or developing new training curricula/learning objectives and teaching modes to address identified gaps and overlaps;
• Support development of learning pathways for Surge personnel;
• Oversee training events globally and coordinate a harmonized training calendar

2. Standardize performance management approach / evaluation framework

• Support standardization of the competency-based trainee selection and evaluation processes for surge training activities;
• In coordination with the Competency Framework Reference Group, develop a clear and transparent way to continually assess learning progress of personnel currently on the databases;
• In coordination with the HR in emergencies team, create technical minimum standards for surge trainings to promote alignment.

3. Coordinate the surge learning and development network, linking Reference Centres, IFRC technical departments, National Societies, Surge Optimitaion Reference Groups and other external stakeholders as needed.

• Develop the L&D network and create a process to engage regularly with the learning focal points (community of practice; mailing list; meet-ups);
• Explore with Partner National Societies / external donors their interest to support the learning initiatives;
• Link and actively engage with different training and learning sub-working groups and IFRC technical departments in collaborative manner;
• Develop and maintain a central depository of learning resources (training curriculums, materials, etc.).

4. Coordinate a network of facilitators within the larger surge network who are available to deploy to support surge trainings

• Review the requirements for IFRC Surge trainings facilitators, including teaching and facilitating competencies;
• Identify gaps in the facilitators pool and develop approaches to resolve them;
• Engage facilitator network regularly for upcoming learning and development events.

Requirements:

• Degree level (or equivalent qualification) in Adult Education, Pedagogy, or another relevant subject.
• At least 3-years’ experience as a learning practitioner, with a solid understanding of adult learning;
• Previous experience in designing, delivering and evaluating competency-based learning interventions;
• At least 3-years’ experience in humanitarian emergency response operations; (preferred)
• Practical experience in sectors that link with disaster response (i.e. relief, food security, disaster risk reduction); (preferred)
• Previous experience in building and facilitating networks. (preferred)

• Strong knowledge of adult learning principles and methods;

• Flexible and adaptable to work effectively in diverse cultural settings;

• Understanding of the RCRC Movement and knowledge of the IFRC Surge system; (preferred)

• Analytical and strategic thinking;

• Excellent networking and relationship building skills;

• Excellent oral and written communications skills;

• Willingness to travel frequently if needed.

• Fluently spoken and written English

• Good command of another IFRC official language (French, Spanish or Arabic) is preferred.

• Please note: “This is a national staff position open to Hungarian nationals and others who are legally eligible to work in Hungary. Candidates must be able to provide proof of their eligibility to work in Hungary.”

http://www.ifrc.org/en/who-we-are/working-with-us/current-vacancies/job-description/?id=20736