Lead the establishment of INSO’s new mission covering Venezuela and Ecuador. We are hiring a Head of Mission to provide strategic leadership and safety coordination. Apply by 9 Feb 2026.
Job Title: Head of Mission – Venezuela & Ecuador
| Organization | International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO) |
| Duty Station | Colombia (Managing Venezuela & Ecuador coverage) |
| Contract Type | Fixed Term (12 Months) |
| Salary | €5,750 Monthly (Gross) |
| Application Deadline | 09 February 2026 |
Operational Context
The International NGO Safety Organisation (INSO) is a global charity dedicated to the safety of humanitarian aid workers. We provide vital coordination, analysis, and emergency support to over 1,500 NGOs operating in high-risk environments.
We are currently recruiting a Head of Mission (HoM) to lead the establishment of INSO’s coverage in Venezuela and Ecuador. Based in Colombia, this is a strategic start-up role. You will be responsible for building our presence from the ground up, assessing NGO needs, and delivering the high-quality safety services that our partners rely on to operate securely.
Position Mandate
As the highest representative for INSO in these countries, you will provide strategic vision and operational leadership. Your primary mandate is to launch the mission effectively, ensuring that our services are relevant, timely, and compliant with our global standards.
You will act as a bridge builder, establishing trusted networks with government agencies, the UN, donors, and the NGO community while strictly maintaining INSO’s independence and neutrality.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Start-up
- Conduct initial scoping to identify specific safety needs of NGOs operating in Venezuela and Ecuador.
- Design and execute the mission’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with operational realities and donor requirements.
- Establish the country office structure, recruiting and deploying a high-performing team.
Representation & Networking
- Serve as the primary face of INSO, building robust relationships with key stakeholders including government bodies, embassies, and humanitarian coordination platforms.
- Secure INSO’s standing as a credible, independent safety partner within the humanitarian architecture.
- Identify funding opportunities and proactively engage with donors to secure resources for mission continuity.
Service Delivery & Quality Assurance
- Oversee the timely delivery of core INSO services: alerts, comprehensive safety reports, risk assessments, and crisis support.
- Implement Service Delivery Standards to ensure all outputs meet the rigorous quality expected by our partners.
- Monitor beneficiary satisfaction and drive continuous improvement in our analysis and support mechanisms.
Security & Risk Management
- Maintain constant situational awareness of political and security developments in the region.
- Ensure strict adherence to safety protocols for all INSO staff and assets.
- Lead crisis management and emergency response for the mission.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for an experienced country director or safety expert with a proven track record in establishing new missions or projects in complex environments.
Essential Qualifications
- Experience: Minimum of 5 years in humanitarian aid, risk management, or NGO leadership. Experience in a start-up mission is highly preferred.
- Regional Knowledge: Deep understanding of the political and security dynamics in Venezuela, Ecuador, and Colombia.
- Languages: Fluency in Spanish and English (written and verbal) is mandatory.
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent certification in a relevant field.
Skills & Competencies
- Leadership: Strong ability to organize, guide, and motivate teams during a critical establishment phase.
- Strategic Thinking: Capacity to analyze complex contexts and make informed decisions under pressure.
- Financial Acumen: Sound budget management and donor compliance skills.
Terms & Benefits
INSO offers a competitive package designed for senior expatriate staff:
- Salary: €5,750 per month.
- Leave: 4 calendar days of annual leave per month.
- R&R: 3 calendar days of Rest & Recuperation every 3 months.
- Medical: Global medical coverage (excluding USA) and $200,000 AD&D coverage.
- Contract: 12 months.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 09 February 2026
To apply, please submit the following via email:
- Cover Letter: addressing the mandatory requirements and your motivation.
- Updated CV.
- Writing Sample: One substantive sample in English demonstrating analytical and report writing abilities (Max 10 pages).
Email: jobs@hq.ngosafety.org Subject Line: HoM Venezuela & Ecuador
INSO is committed to humanitarian principles and safe recruitment. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks.