What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide protection and humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of the victims of armed conflict or any other situation of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

Our values

• At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviors based on these shared values. For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this page.

Purpose

The Political Adviser advises the delegation on political developments and changes in the overall environment, conflict and security dynamics. S/he identifies, maintains, and broadens high-level relations with key national stakeholders and facilitates senior management’s access to a wide network of contacts.

Reports to (role)

• Head of Delegation

Accountabilities & functional responsibilities

• Advise senior management and staff on political, conflict, and security issues to shape the delegation's overall strategies.
• Actively develop and maintain a high-level network of key contacts across authorities, security forces, political, religious, and civil society groups, and the Red Cross Movement.
• Facilitate senior management's access to key national interlocutors and act as the main liaison for ICRC field access and movements.
• Provide and maintain a comprehensive, regular analysis of the political, humanitarian, and security situation in Sudan to inform decision-making.
• Continuously monitor and screen Arabic media and diverse sources daily, synthesizing key information with a focus on contested areas and operational implications.
• Write reports, briefing notes, and internal messages to share political and other analytical results within the ICRC.
• Conduct briefings on the context and cultural sensitivities for all delegation and international staff, advising on appropriate behavior and communication.
• Collect information on the field situation and provide political advice and strategic guidance to inform the planning and organization of ICRC operations.
• Support the implementation and running of specific projects or programs with contextual insight.
• Present and explain the ICRC mandate, principles, and activities implemented in Sudan to external stakeholders.
• Engage with counterparts in ICRC delegations in neighboring countries to reflect the regional scope of Sudan’s humanitarian situation.
• Liaise with the security & safety team, provide regular security updates, and coordinate in case of unusual or heightened security situations.
• Leverage political analysis and networks to facilitate access and reinforce ICRC activities, engaging key stakeholders on priority issues.
• Contribute to joint analyses across operational departments to ensure a coherent institutional response.
• Coach and support field teams, particularly in areas of networking, representation, and political analysis, to strengthen their effectiveness.

Desired profile and skills

• Strongly motivated by humanitarian work
• Able to work under pressure in a potentially dangerous environment

Certifications / Education required

• University degree or relevant professional experience.
• Fluent level (minimum C1) of English.
• Computer proficiency.

Professional experience required

• 6–10 years’ professional experience as a manager or programme officer in similar fields, organizations or governmental structures, ideally including 5 years with the ICRC.
• Confirmed analytical capacity in a similar field of activity.
• Ability to demonstrate the existence of a relevant network of contacts.

What we offer

• Rewarding work in a humanitarian and multicultural environment.
• Competitive employment package with medical insurance.
• In-house training opportunities for personal development.

Additional information

• Type of role: National Staff
• Working rate: 100%
• Location: Port Sudan
• Type of contract: Fix-term contract (Extendable)
• Length of assignment: Six months (Extendable)
• Application deadline: 12 October 2025
• Desired starting date: December 2025