Title: Cash Distribution Officer
Reporting to: Cash Officer
Duty Station: Karachi (Field-based)
Unit: Programme
Section: Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) / Humanitarian Response

Summary of Key Functions

The Cash Distribution Officer will be responsible for the field-based implementation of cash assistance activities under the Building Institutional Capacity and Resilience Against Natural Disasters (BRAND) project in Karachi. The primary responsibility of the Cash Distribution Officer will be the execution of cash transfers to eligible refugee households in Karachi, ensuring all activities are conducted with high levels of accountability, transparency, and in accordance with project guidelines and donor requirements. This role will involve engaging directly with beneficiaries, conducting verifications, and managing the physical distribution process.

Roles and Responsibilities

Cash Distribution Implementation:

Ensure the smooth and efficient distribution of cash assistance (Multipurpose Cash Assistance - MPCA) to the selected beneficiaries in Karachi.

Verify the beneficiary details and ensure that the correct amount is distributed according to the project guidelines.

Monitor and manage distribution points, ensuring that all distribution processes are conducted safely, securely, and in a dignified manner.

Ensure that beneficiaries receive the full entitlement of cash assistance without delays or discrepancies.

Beneficiary Engagement:

Engage with beneficiaries before, during, and after cash distributions, explaining the process, answering questions, and addressing any concerns.

Ensure that the beneficiary selection criteria are adhered to and assist in verifying beneficiaries during the registration and distribution process.

Act as a liaison between the beneficiaries and the project team to ensure effective communication and timely resolution of any issues.

Documentation and Reporting:

Maintain accurate and up-to-date records of all cash distribution activities, including beneficiary lists, disbursement logs, and feedback forms.

Ensure that all distribution activities are properly documented, including photographs, beneficiary signatures, and distribution receipts.

Report any issues, discrepancies, or challenges in the distribution process to the Cash Officer and project manager.

Assist in compiling reports on cash distributions, including tracking disbursement status and providing regular updates.

Coordination and Monitoring:

Ensure that cash distribution points are organized and coordinated effectively, in line with safety protocols and operational guidelines.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of cash distribution activities, collecting feedback from beneficiaries and reporting any concerns or suggestions for improvement.

Work closely with the Cash Officer to ensure that the distribution process is in line with the project’s objectives and donor requirements.

Participate in post-distribution monitoring activities, including conducting surveys or focus group discussions to assess beneficiary satisfaction.

Risk Management and Security:

Implement and follow security and risk management procedures during cash distribution, ensuring the safety and security of both beneficiaries and staff.

Identify and report any risks or challenges that arise during the distribution process, including fraud, security concerns, or operational delays.

Ensure proper crowd management and ensure that the distribution process adheres to community protection standards and respects the dignity of the beneficiaries.

Community Outreach and Awareness:

Support in community mobilization and awareness activities to ensure beneficiaries understand the cash distribution process, eligibility criteria, and the project's objectives.

Ensure that beneficiaries are well-informed about the process and any specific requirements or actions needed from them.

Help in addressing any grievances or complaints from beneficiaries in a transparent and timely manner.

Qualifications and Skills

Education: A Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, International Development, Humanitarian Assistance, or a related field.

Experience:

At least 1-2 years of experience in cash assistance programming, humanitarian response, or a related field.

Prior experience in field-based operations, specifically with cash distribution or voucher programs, is highly desirable.

Knowledge of ECHO, UNHCR, or other donor guidelines related to cash assistance programs is an asset.

Skills:

Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with beneficiaries and community members.

Strong attention to detail and ability to manage records and reports accurately.

Good organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

Knowledge of community-based approaches and disaster response programming.

Ability to work under pressure in a field environment with diverse and vulnerable populations.

Basic knowledge of MS Office applications (Word, Excel, etc.) and data collection tools.

Additional Information

Travel: Regular travel to field sites in Karachi is required.

Languages: Fluency in English required. Knowledge of Urdu or Pashto/Dari are highly desirable.