About the opportunity
The World Food Programme (WFP) is seeking an International Consultant to serve as the Head of Emergency in Aden, Yemen. This role provides strategic leadership, operational oversight, and technical direction for Targeted Emergency Food Assistance (TEFA) operations. The incumbent will manage resource pipelines, oversee cooperating partners, lead a multi-disciplinary program team, and steer the transition toward digital cash transfers and integrated social protection systems. The position involves high-level technical interlocution with government authorities, UN agencies (UNICEF, UNFPA), and international financial institutions like the World Bank to advance emergency preparedness and joint safety net integration.
Salary and benefits
- Attractive compensation package.
- Investment in personal and professional development through training, accreditation, coaching, and mentorship.
- Opportunities for internal mobility across WFP's global network of country, regional, and global offices.
Who can apply?
- Advanced University Degree (master's or equivalent) or University Degree in International Relations, Development Studies, Economics, Social Sciences, Business Administration, or another relevant academic field.
- Minimum 7 years of progressive professional experience in humanitarian operations, emergency program management, or food security assistance.
- Proven experience leading large-scale cash-based or in-kind operations in complex, high-risk, or conflict-affected environments.
- Fluency (Level C) in spoken and written English.
- Prior experience in the Middle East region or Yemen context is a distinct advantage.
- Working knowledge or intermediate proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable.
Required documents
- CV
- Cover Letter
When to apply
- Deadline for applications: 6 September 2026, 23:59 GMT+03:00 (Arabian Standard Time, Aden).
How to apply
- Create and complete an accurate Workday profile, including employment history, academic qualifications, and language skills.
- Submit the application exclusively through the WFP online recruiting system.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Seasoned humanitarian professionals with 7+ years of experience in complex, high-risk environments.
- Leaders with a proven track record in managing large-scale cash-based or in-kind food assistance programs.
- Experts in inter-agency coordination and high-level technical dialogue with government and international institutions.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is based in Aden, Yemen, a high-risk environment that requires significant personal resilience.
- Candidates should verify the specific security and living arrangements provided for this consultancy contract.
- Proficiency in Arabic is highly desirable and may be a deciding factor for the most competitive applicants.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This position offers a high-impact opportunity for a senior professional to lead critical emergency operations. It is ideal for someone aiming to influence large-scale social protection systems and gain significant experience in complex humanitarian crisis management.
Our take
This is a high-level leadership role best suited for experienced emergency program managers with a background in the Middle East. It is less suitable for those seeking a low-risk environment or those without extensive experience in conflict-affected settings.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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