Portfolio Manager

Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH

Published

21 Oct 2026

Country: Syrian Arab RepublicOrganization: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbHClosing date: 4 Nov 2026Job descriptionGIZ has been operating in Syria since 1976. It has thus established valuable contacts in civil society and garnered experience that is now crucial for supporting the country. From 2013 onwards, it worked without government involvement with the assistance of local non-governmental organizations. Despite the difficult conditions, GIZ has consistently contributed to improving people’s living conditions.In view of the developments since December 2024, which have led Syria into a decisive phase of transformation, GIZ reopens its Country Office in Damascus in 2026. It is currently implementing 14 projects on behalf of the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the Federal Foreign Office (FFO), with co-financing from the European Union and other donors. From 2026, the portfolio is planned to be expanded by several new projects.The Portfolio Management Unit (PFMU) of GIZ Syria supports the management, operational implementation especially with regards to overarching topics, and further developments of the bilateral portfolio in Syria. Additionally, the PFMU manages internal and external relations and partnerships across projects from a portfolio perspective, in alignment with the company strategy and priorities of the commissioning parties.Your tasksSupport the Country Director on relevant overarching processes and topicsSupport the integration of cross-cutting issues and foster cooperation between the projectsLiaise with relevant stakeholders, especially in the Syrian government, build up partnerships and support the acquisition of new projectsProvide advice and updates on activities, regulations, processes, and progress of projects within GIZ Syria (e.g., briefing documents)Assist in coordinating internal and external inquiries and ensure appropriate responsesPrepare and coordinate delegation visits and support in other relevant portfolio-wide events such as the annual planning, ensuring smooth and efficient operationsManage the knowledge management of overarching processes relevant to the whole portfolioWhere appropriate and reasonable, perform additional tasks upon request of the managementYour profile (required qualifications, competencies and experience)University degree in social, economic or regional sciences, or relevant field.At least 5 years of professional experience in development cooperation or humanitarian operations, ideally in the field of portfolio management and operational planning5 years working experience in an international environment on Syria or similar contextsStrong communication skills with the ability to work efficiently and collaboratively with both external stakeholders and internal colleagues, demonstrating a strong team-oriented approachIndependent decision-making, excellent prioritisation and coordination skills, and ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously, always with an interdisciplinary, solution-oriented mindsetWillingness to learn and ability to identify improvementsProficiency in all MS Office applicationsProfessional fluency in written and spoken English and Arabic, knowledge of German is an assetHow to applyAdditional informationThe following minimum requirements for applications need to be fulfilled:Only application documents in English will be accepted. Documents in Arabic cannot be considered during the selection process.Mandatory documents are CV and application letter in English stating your qualifications and previous professional experiences.The deadline for application is 04.11.2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.GIZ is committed to diversity and gender balance. It is encouraging persons with disabilities to apply for the position.Please note that this is a national position subject to GIZ Syria’s national terms and conditions of employment..Please submit your application to recruitment-sy@giz.de indicating in the subject line only the respective title of the position.