Senior Protection Associate

Organizational Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. In Türkiye, IOM implements protection programming to address risks faced by migrants and refugees, including exploitation and barriers to essential services. This role is based in Gaziantep, supporting the Voluntary Return and Advisory Desks within Turkish Red Crescent Community Centres.

Job Purpose

The Senior Protection Associate will coordinate the daily implementation of the Voluntary Return and Advisory Desks, serving as a key entry point for migrants and refugees seeking information, counselling, and referrals. This role is crucial for ensuring access to appropriate assistance and specialized services for individuals with protection needs, including victims of trafficking and survivors of GBV. The position involves direct engagement with beneficiaries, case management, and collaboration with partners to strengthen referral pathways and enhance the quality and accessibility of protection services within the Gaziantep sub-office.

Responsibilities

Assist in planning, coordinating, and monitoring project activities such as outreach, identification of vulnerable individuals, protection counselling, and case management, adhering to SOPs and protection principles. Provide direct case management for complex cases, offering technical guidance to staff. Monitor case management activities, ensuring timely documentation and data quality in compliance with IOM policies. Coordinate financial and administrative aspects of project implementation, including budget monitoring and procurement. Serve as the primary liaison with the Turkish Red Crescent Community Centre management and other partners to coordinate activities and strengthen referral pathways. Plan and conduct capacity-building workshops for internal and external parties on protection principles and case management. Participate in meetings, maintain liaison with stakeholders, and coordinate the preparation of reports and project documentation. Identify best practices, contribute to SOP development, and supervise reporting staff, ensuring quality assurance of services.

Work Experience

Experience in protection case management, including outreach, assessment, planning, referrals, and closure, preferably in humanitarian or migration contexts. Experience working with vulnerable populations such as refugees, GBV survivors, and victims of trafficking is essential. Proven ability to coordinate with government authorities, UN agencies, and NGOs, and experience with case management systems and data protection principles are required.

Skills

Strong knowledge of protection principles, case management, and referral mechanisms. Excellent communication, counselling, and interpersonal skills for working with diverse vulnerable individuals. Strong organizational, coordination, and time management abilities. Proven ability to build effective working relationships with stakeholders. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills. Excellent report writing and information management capabilities. Proficiency in Microsoft Office; experience with case management systems is advantageous.

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