Oxfam in Africa Job Summary

Job Title: Head of Humanitarian
Location: Any country with an Oxfam office/presence (subject to employment arrangements)
Closing Date: 20th June 2026 @ 23:59 GMT/BST/EAT
Contract: Fixed-term – 2 Years (Full-Time)
Job Grade: B1, International
Salary: In line with Oxfam International’s pay range, including core benefits and global entitlements for internationally relocated staff

About Oxfam in Africa

Oxfam in Africa is a continental platform committed to challenging inequality and injustice across the continent.

Working in partnership with civil society, governments, and local communities, Oxfam Africa focuses on empowering marginalized groups, promoting gender equality, advocating policy change, and strengthening local civil society organizations.

With a core set of values including empowerment, accountability, inclusiveness, courage, solidarity, and equality, Oxfam aims to create a more just and equitable Africa.

Role Overview

Oxfam in Africa is seeking an exceptional Head of Humanitarian to provide strategic leadership and oversight of humanitarian preparedness and response initiatives across Sub-Saharan Africa.

This influential role involves shaping and driving Oxfam’s humanitarian strategy, ensuring timely and high-quality responses to crises, and fostering collaboration across country offices, affiliates, and global teams.

The successful candidate will contribute to humanitarian policy, influence key stakeholders, and support the advancement of Oxfam’s global commitments.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and manage regional humanitarian preparedness and emergency response efforts
Shape and implement Oxfam’s humanitarian strategy in Africa
Oversee emergency response operations and ensure alignment with international standards
Drive regional preparedness initiatives and capacity building

Collaborate with country offices, affiliates, and the Global Humanitarian Team
Contribute to humanitarian policy development and advocacy
Represent Oxfam in external forums and with key stakeholders
Lead a team of humanitarian advisors and foster high-performance culture

Candidate Profile

Extensive experience managing complex emergency responses in diverse contexts
Deep knowledge of humanitarian preparedness, response coordination, and policy development
Strong understanding of gender, protection, and international humanitarian standards
Proven ability to influence and negotiate with governments, UN agencies, and partners

Analytical and decisive thinker with excellent leadership skills
Fluency in English and French is essential
Ability to operate in high-pressure environments and travel frequently
Values-driven with a commitment to feminist principles, social justice, and equality

Why Join Oxfam?

Join a vibrant, continent-wide platform dedicated to decolonizing humanitarian action and promoting locally-led leadership.

This role offers a unique opportunity to influence how Oxfam responds to Africa’s most pressing crises, contribute to resilient and equitable systems, and advance social justice.

Oxfam values flexible working arrangements and is committed to supporting staff development and well-being.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter explaining their suitability for the role via application link.

APPLY HERE

Early applications are recommended as shortlisting may begin before the closing date. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

About Oxfam

Oxfam is a global movement dedicated to ending poverty and injustice through humanitarian aid, development, and campaigning.

Operating in over 76 countries, Oxfam works to empower communities, promote gender equality, advocate for climate justice, and foster sustainable growth.

The organization upholds safeguarding principles and emphasizes integrity, inclusiveness, and accountability in all its work.

This is a strategic leadership role requiring extensive experience in humanitarian response, coordination, and policy development.

If you are passionate about social justice and have a proven track record in humanitarian leadership, apply now to make an impact across Africa.