International Rescue Committee Program Manager Interview Questions
& Process

They were good with communication and gave me a week to prepare. The questions were set up in a certain way and the interviewers didn't really budge from their points. It felt like innovation wasn't really a thing they were looking for. The main person interviewing was nice though. It was basically just asking and answering, not much discussion allowed. They weren't open to other views.

I went through an HR screening, then an interview with the hiring manager, followed by a 3-hour written assessment. After that, I had another interview with the head of the department. I was also asked for 4-5 references. This whole thing took two months. I was told I was the top candidate and an offer was coming, but then the recruiter said the job had to be in NY and remote work wasn't possible anymore. This was weird because during all THREE interviews, I was told working remotely from another state was fine. They said it was a new thing from leadership, but I don't know how HR or the hiring manager didn't know. Glad I didn't quit my job. This was my dream job and I was excited to work with the hiring manager and director. It was disappointing that they didn't apologize for wasting my time. Just a quick email from the recruiter. It was a tough experience that messed with my head. I respect the IRC's mission a lot, but this interview process was a letdown. Also, be aware their DEI is lacking, especially at the HQ leadership level. There aren't many chances to grow, which is why I left before, and it causes high turnover. And honestly, having the HQ in NYC, one of the most expensive places, doesn't seem like a good way to get diverse talent. As a person of color and immigrant, I can't afford to move to NY. Plus, the cost of a NY office is huge. The org is very structured and doesn't listen to feedback, which is a shame because I really believe in their mission. I hope they fix their hiring and DEI and are more open about changes and diversity numbers.

I applied about a month ago, and then got contacted for a phone interview. After that, I had a virtual interview with a more senior staff member in the department, and then another with the director. It all went pretty fast, and the HR recruiter was super nice and responsive throughout. Each chat was brief and to the point, but still felt conversational and comfortable. Later on, I had to give them 5 references, and just a day or two after that, I got an offer for a different role than the one I initially applied for.