DEPUTY OPERATONS MANAGER (DEPUTY RECO) CELL 2 (BASED IN DAKAR)

GENERAL CONTEXT

Support the definition and implementation of operational strategies and ensure the effective functioning of Operational Cell 2, contributing to the design, coordination and supervision of high‑impact medical‑humanitarian operations aligned with MSF principles and policies.

JOB OVERVIEW

The Deputy Operations Manager supports the Operations Manager in defining strategic orientations, overseeing mission planning and implementation, and ensuring the effective functioning of Operational Cell 2. The role contributes to contextual analysis, operational decision‑making, knowledge management, emergency preparedness and response, and coordination across technical and support departments. Acting as a key sparring partner, the position strengthens operational coherence, quality, relevance, accountability and impact of interventions across the assigned portfolio. In the absence of the Operations Manager, the role ensures continuity of leadership and coordination of the Cell.

ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Contribute to organisational and operational strategy by supporting analysis, reflection and positioning on humanitarian crises and dilemmas to inform decision‑making.
• Support the definition of operational strategies for missions by conducting contextual analyses and ensuring alignment with MSF operational policies.
• Coordinate and consolidate mission planning and budgeting processes to ensure coherence between annual operational plans, priorities and allocated resources.
• Supervise and support the implementation of operational plans to ensure quality, relevance, accountability and impact of interventions responding to population needs.
• Coordinate operational support across technical and support services to ensure integrated and timely assistance to missions.
• Strengthen emergency preparedness and response capacity within the assigned portfolio through monitoring, guidance and coordination.
• Ensure effective functioning of the Operational Cell by supporting coordination, communication and decision‑making processes.
• Promote information and knowledge management by ensuring documentation, learning and capitalisation processes (including evaluations and close collaboration with the learning unit) are applied and maintained.

ROLE’S SPECIFIC ELEMENTS

• Acts as deputy to the Operations Manager and replaces them in their absence.
• Supports security management in coordination with logistics and security advisors.
• Provides induction/coaching to new management members at mission level.
• Supports development of national staff and gender equality strategies in collaboration with HR.
• Assures gap-filling of senior coordination positions in his/her portfolio
• Participate proactively in Interdesk meetings
• Contributes to advocacy, communication, networking and positioning strategies related to operations.
• Facilitates coordination with decentralised units and emerging MSF entities.
• Supports the implementation of transversal processes (Safeguarding/Behaviour, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, Patient Centred Approach/Protection)

SELECTION CRITERIA

• Minimum 3 years’ experience with MSF.
• Previous experience as Head of Mission.
• Proven experience in emergency response contexts.
• Essential: Fluent English and French. Desirable: Spanish or Arabic.

CONDITIONS

• Based in Dakar (possible frequent travels required).
• Salary: classified at level 16 of the MSF Senegal pay scale. The proposed GROSS MONTHLY remuneration package is (gross amounts before tax and social security contributions): 
  • Gross monthly salary (including basic salary and allowance): 2,373,700 XOF. (Career progression allowance depending on experience).
  • Flexible allowance: 678,200 XOF  
  • Travel allowance (net amount): 1,017,300 XOF
  • Transport allowance (net amount): 26,000 FCFA
• Duration: 3 + 3 years (forced rotation) in full time
• Starting date: beginning of September

HOW TO APPLY

• To apply, please submit your CV and cover letter to:
• Closing date: July 16th 2026, 23:59 CET (Central European Time).

All applications will be treated with the strictest confidence. MSF provides a work environment that reflects the values of gender equality, teamwork, integrity and a healthy balance of work and life. MSF does not tolerate sexual exploitation and abuse, any kind of harassment, including sexual harassment and discrimination. All selected candidates will, therefore, undergo reference checks.