Global Emergency Response Lead

IDEA; Alexandria (VA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

IDEA in Alexandria, VA seeks an experienced International Emergency Response Lead to design, coordinate, and execute large-scale humanitarian responses across regions. The role combines operational leadership with strategic partnership management for timely, principled interventions.

The ideal candidate has field experience, manages institutional donors, and is comfortable with short-notice international travel and deployments to high-risk environments, while upholding humanitarian standards.

Qualifications

• U.S. citizenship required.
• Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred in related field.
• 5–7+ years of experience in international humanitarian response with field experience.
• Willingness to travel internationally on short notice.
• Experience with donors and UN agencies is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning, coordination, and execution of large-scale international emergency responses.
• Oversee rapid needs assessments, strategy development, and program implementation.
• Ensure responses are timely, contextually appropriate, and aligned with humanitarian standards and best practices.
• Coordinate with donors, UN agencies, local governments, and partners.
• Support preparedness initiatives with field operations and partner organizations.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Stakeholder management

Travel readiness

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Master’s degree in international development or related field

Job description

IDEA in Alexandria, VA seeks an experienced International Emergency Response Lead to design, coordinate, and execute large-scale humanitarian responses across regions. The role combines operational leadership with strategic partnership management for timely, principled interventions.

The ideal candidate has field experience, manages institutional donors, and is comfortable with short-notice international travel and deployments to high-risk environments, while upholding humanitarian standards.