Programme Officer – DRRM
Summary:
The Programme Officer (PO) will be based at MERCY Malaysia headquarters in Kuala Lumpur and is responsible for the end-to-end management of assigned humanitarian and development projects. This includes programme initiation, planning, implementation, monitoring, and closure, ensuring compliance with internal policies and international standards such as the Core Humanitarian Standard (CHS), Sphere Minimum Standards, and the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
The PO will actively monitor humanitarian needs, lead or support emergency responses, and integrate Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) approaches into all programme cycles. The role requires strong stakeholder coordination, technical planning, and operational oversight to ensure programmes are effective, accountable, and aligned with organizational strategies.
This list is by no means exhaustive and will be subjected to change from time to time as and when required.
Key Responsibilities:
- Initiation of programme
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- Monitor and analyze humanitarian and development trends, identifying needs, risks, and gaps in areas of operation.
- Conduct risk assessments, vulnerability analyses, and hazard mapping using tools such as GIS and Google Earth.
- Participate in in-country coordination mechanisms and represent MERCY Malaysia in relevant platforms.
- Lead or support Emergency Response Team (ERT) deployments and rapid needs assessments during disasters.
- Provide technical input for assessment missions and programme design.
- Be available for deployment within 24 hours for emergency or non-emergency missions.
- Planning
- Conduct desk research, situation analysis, and develop evidence-based intervention strategies (short- to long-term).
- Develop DRRM strategies aligned with global frameworks (e.g., Sendai Framework) and national policies.
- Integrate disaster risk reduction, resilience-building, and climate adaptation elements into programme design.
- Design community-based preparedness plans (early warning systems, evacuation plans, resource strategies).
- Ensure compliance with CHS, Sphere standards, and technical sectors such as Health, WASH, and DRR.
- Prepare programme documentation (proposals, concept notes, budgets, technical drawings, reports).
- Contribute to internal strategic discussions and maintain strong inter-departmental collaboration.
- Project execution and implementation
- Develop and execute implementation strategies aligned with organizational and country-level plans.
- Coordinate with country offices, field teams, partners, and technical units to deliver programme objectives.
- Implement community-based DRRM initiatives (e.g., resilient infrastructure, ecosystem restoration, livelihoods).
- Conduct trainings, simulation exercises, and capacity-building workshops for stakeholders and communities.
- Ensure programmes are inclusive, gender-sensitive, and adhere to humanitarian standards.
- Manage stakeholder engagement, including government agencies, NGOs, donors, and communities.
- Oversee logistics, procurement processes, and budget tracking for programme activities.
- Implement feedback and complaint response mechanisms to ensure accountability.
- Monitoring & Closing
- Track programme indicators and ensure timely monitoring, evaluation, and reporting of outputs and outcomes.
- Maintain accurate documentation (soft and hard copies) in compliance with organizational guidelines.
- Support and facilitate monitoring visits, evaluations, and audits.
- Provide regular updates to management on programme progress and field developments.
- Ensure financial accountability and operational efficiency of field activities.
- Document lessons learned, best practices, and conduct post-disaster reviews.
- Ensure all projects include clear exit strategies and that deliverables are met prior to closure.
- Advocacy & Coordination
- Promote integration of DRRM across sectors such as climate adaptation, health, and WASH.
- Develop awareness campaigns and communication materials to strengthen stakeholder engagement.
- Build and maintain partnerships with government agencies, NGOs, community leaders, and other stakeholders.
- Represent MERCY Malaysia in coordination forums and external engagements.
Others
- Proficiency in GIS tools, Google Earth, and spatial analysis for disaster risk assessment.
- Strong understanding of humanitarian principles, DRRM frameworks, and global standards (CHS, Sphere, Sendai Framework).
- Ability to work in high-pressure environments and deploy rapidly during emergencies.
- Commitment to continuous learning and staying updated on DRRM trends, innovations, and best practices.
- Undertake any other duties of compatible natures may be required from time to time

