Head of Mission 1 (800578)

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Purpose

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) in Kyrgyzstan wishes to advise all potential candidates of the opening of a full-time position for Head of Mission. 

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Mission to lead and manage ICRC operations in Kyrgyzstan. The primary goal of this role is to strengthen and guide the ICRC’s humanitarian activities, engagement with various audiences, ensuring effective delivering of our humanitarian mission.

Accountabilities & functional responsibilities

• Analyses the political, humanitarian and security environment, taking into consideration local, regional and global perspectives, in order to identify humanitarian needs and prioritize the response in the country.
• Fosters the appropriate mindset and ensures joint/or complementary activities with other Movement components.
• Building on the ICRC's institutional and regional strategic frameworks, defines together with the Management of the Regional Delegation, the operational strategies and objectives of the mission.
• Implements and Manages human, financial and material resources in accordance with the ICRC's human resources and financial management procedures and policies.
• Represents the ICRC to national and local authorities, engaging with multiple stakeholders to promote respect for international humanitarian law and the organization’s objectives.
• Represents the ICRC in international fora, engaging with international organizations present in Kyrgyzstan as well as with diplomatic representations.
• Interacts with all the components of the Movement present or visiting Kyrgyzstan in order to present ICRC’s positioning and activities and harmonize the overall Movement’s approach in Kyrgyzstan and in Central Asia.
• Conducts a dialogue with interlocutors in accordance with the relevant strategies and objectives, to increase respect for IHL and other legal and humanitarian standards.
• Actively contributes to ICRC public communication and fundraising strategies, raising awareness about the work of the organization in a way that reinforces its influence, access, and response.
• Ensures that the ICRC's operations are carried out effectively and efficiently, with the highest level of security for its staff and property.
• Ensures that ICRC operations are coordinated with other humanitarian players, promoting partnerships in line with the Movement's Fundamental Principles and strategy, in order to respond optimally to humanitarian needs.

Desired profile and skills

• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with proven experience working both in teams and independently under tight deadlines.
• Strong strategic thinking, diplomatic and partnership skills.
• Proven people management experience.
• Strong analytical and reporting skills.
• Sound understanding of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement and its mandate.

What we offer

Working at the ICRC is a rewarding experience in a humanitarian and multicultural environment. We offer opportunities for professional development as well as attractive social benefits. We also provide a competitive salary and benefits, together with opportunities for in-house training.

Additional information

• Working rate: Full-time
• Starting date: 01 February, 2026
• Location: Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan
• Job level: C1
• Type of position: Resident
• Application deadline: 20/11/2025

The selected candidate will work closely with the ICRC Regional Delegation in Tashkent. The position is based in Bishkek, with occasional travel within the region and internationally as required. Candidates must be citizens of Kyrgyzstan or have a valid work permit.

Our values

At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this 

Reports to (role)

• Head of Regional Delegation

People management responsibilities

Yes

Professional experience/Certification required

• 10 years professional experience and at least 5 years with a similar role.
• University Degree (Masters’ in International Relations, Political Science or related field).
• Fluency in English, Kyrgyz and Russian is required.
• Confirmed experience in leading and managing large multidisciplinary and multicultural teams in complex environments.
• Conceptual and strategic analytical capacity and strong negotiation skills.
• Recognized capacity to achieve results and effectively manage resources.
• Proven record in building and developing networks and partnerships (Movement or other)

Competencies