As the official representation of Norway in Lebanon and Syria, the Embassy works to strengthen relations with both countries. The Embassy consists of 8 diplomats and 12 locally employed staff (4 of which are based in Damascus, including this role) working collaboratively in a dynamic and international environment.
The Embassy is responsible for Norway’s bilateral development cooperation with Syria and Lebanon, with a strong focus on inclusive social and economic development. Our portfolio spans key sectors such as energy, health, governance and human rights, mine action, and humanitarian assistance programs. Support for Syria is a strategic priority for Norway. The Embassy is developing new lines of activities, with a stronger focus on capacity development and the recovery needs of Syria, in parallel to continued humanitarian assistance. The Embassy is working with local and international partners to promote sustainable development and equitable opportunities for all.
We now invite applications for the position of a Senior Programme Officer in Damascus, who will play a central role in developing and managing the Embassy’s longer-term development and humanitarian portfolio in Syria. The successful candidate will become an integral member of the Embassy’s Development team and will report to the Embassy’s Head of Cooperation and the leadership of the Embassy.
While the primary focus will be on development and humanitarian programmes the portfolio may expand to include other thematic areas depending on evolving political priorities.
This is a full-time position for two years.
Key responsibilities:
- Manage grants, including application processing, financial oversight, value for money assessments, and project and financial risk management.
- Maintain continuous follow-up with government partners, UN and other multilateral agencies, and civil society organizations to ensure constructive dialogue and high-quality implementation.
- Follow up priority areas for Norwegian assistance to Syria and contribute to identifying new strategic initiatives for Embassy support and engagement.
- Represent the Embassy in relevant meetings, working groups, and thematic sector fora.
- Coordinate closely with development partners and other sector stakeholders to promote synergy and shared results.
- Collaborate with actors across the Norwegian aid system to ensure coherent, complementary, and mutually reinforcing support to Syria.
- Assist with research and analysis in support of the Embassy’s reporting on development and humanitarian issues.
- Support the preparation and follow-up of briefings, reports, meetings and visits.
- Support communication about results of Norwegian assistance and engagement in Syria.
- Perform duties as assigned, noting that the Ambassador may adjust the Terms of Reference in line with evolving operational needs.
Qualifications:
- A bachelor’s degree in development studies, human rights or political science, or another field directly relevant to the portfolio.
- At least 10 years of professional experience working in the development and/or humanitarian sector. Experience from similar work from the UN, other Embassies or civil society organizations will be considered an asset.
- Strong knowledge of international development policy standards and frameworks, including principles of non-discrimination, equality, and accountability.
- Excellent communication skills in English and Arabic, both written and oral.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word and Excel; familiarity with basic descriptive analysis or data interpretation is an added advantage.
- Experience with grant management processes.
- Experience in external communication/use of social media in a professional context will be considered an asset.
Personal qualities:
- Strong analytical skills: Able to efficiently gather, triangulate, and assess information, and communicate insights clearly
- Proactive implementer: Demonstrates initiative, works independently, and reliably plans and follows tasks through completion.
- High level of execution: Works in a systematic and detail oriented manner, delivering accurate and timely‑oriented manner, delivering accurate and timely results.
- Resilient under pressure: Manages multiple priorities, meets tight deadlines, and maintains a high level of performance in demanding situations.
- Culturally sensitive: Shows respect for diverse cultural norms, practices, and diplomatic protocols, and adapts communication accordingly.
- Discrete and principled: Maintains confidentiality and consistently upholds integrity, professionalism, and good judgment.
- Flexible, service-minded and solutions oriented.
What we offer:
- A collaborative and inclusive workplace, offering stimulating and professionally challenging responsibilities.
- A competitive salary, commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Health insurance.
- Opportunity for professional development and growth.
- Working hours is 37,5 hours per week, Sunday to Thursday. Occasional evening and weekend work may be required due to Embassy activities. Extra hours will be compensated.
Application procedures:
Applications should be submitted to the Embassy in the form of a motivation letter (maximum 1 page) and a CV with 2-3 professional references to emb.damascus@mfa.no
Application deadline: 27 March 2026.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Questions about the position may be directed to Head of Cooperation, Christine Knudsen Christine.beate.knudsen@mfa.no, or Counsellor Margrete Laland, Margrete.Laland@mfa.no