IRC Recruitment: Emergency Deputy Director of People & Culture – Global Surge Team Roster | Apply by 5 December 2026

Overview

The International Rescue Committee is seeking experienced humanitarian human resources professionals for its Global Surge Team Roster as an Emergency Deputy Director of People and Culture. This flexible, occasional employment opportunity involves short-term field deployments to provide strategic leadership and operational people management support during humanitarian crises. Selected candidates are part of a roster that assists with rapid staffing, human resources system setup, employee welfare maintenance, and labour law compliance in emergency response settings. Roster membership does not guarantee deployment, as assignments depend on operational priorities and organizational needs.

Who can apply

This opportunity is designed for senior human resources specialists who hold at least 10 years of progressive People and Culture experience. Applicants should preferably possess a graduate degree in Human Resources Management or a related discipline. Essential qualifications include previous experience in disaster, conflict, or post-conflict response environments, as well as a background in managing HR functions across multiple locations and country programs of varying sizes. Candidates must be fluent in English, while proficiency in Spanish, French, or Arabic is highly desirable.

What you get

Successful applicants join the Global Surge Team Roster for occasional, flexible employment involving field deployments of up to 12 weeks. During active deployments, professionals receive short-term operational assignments to lead emergency human resources activities, manage teams, establish workforce systems, and support employee welfare in challenging humanitarian environments.

Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate extensive technical knowledge spanning recruitment, compensation and benefits, employee relations, payroll, contract management, performance management, and HR information systems. The role requires familiarity with international labour law, safeguarding standards, and employee relations investigations, alongside strong data analysis and reporting skills. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, with familiarity in SharePoint and Workday or other HR systems considered an advantage. Essential personal attributes include integrity, sound judgement, empathy, and the ability to maintain effectiveness and leadership under pressure.

How to apply

Candidates must submit their applications by the specified closing date. Selected professionals must be prepared to travel and deploy within 72 hours of notification when called upon for assignments.

Key dates

Applications close on 5 December 2026.