ABOUT IDLO
The International Development Law Organization (IDLO) enables governments and empowers people to reform laws and strengthen institutions to promote peace, justice, sustainable development and economic opportunity. We contribute to creating stable and inclusive societies where every person can live free from fear and want, in dignity and under the rule of law. To learn more about IDLO, please visit our website www.idlo.int or follow us on Twitter @IDLOnews.
ORGANIZATIONAL SETTINGS and POSITION
Reporting to the Director-General (DG) and in close collaboration with the Chief Operating Officer (COO), the Senior Policy Officer supports the DG in carrying out her strategic, policy-related and external relations activities. S/he keeps the Director-General abreast on program and policy developments relevant to IDLO, manages the substantive elements of the DG’s external and internal communications agenda, and strengthens the capacity of the Executive Office to draft reports and statements.
This position is in the Director-General’s/Executive Office which serves both the DG and the COO. As the most senior professional position in the Office, the incumbent also provides guidance to the other team members to ensure that the Office is run smoothly and efficiently for the benefit of the DG and the COO.
The Senior Policy Officer is responsible for the following duties and tasks:
- In collaboration with relevant Management Committee members, coordinates policy recommendations, strategic advice and proposed action from various Departments for the Director-General on substantive areas of IDLO’s work and ensures follow-up as relevant;
- Liaises between the Executive Office and other entities in IDLO to update the DG on major developments in programs, research, advocacy and policy related areas;
- Coordinates key messages and drafts major reports, speeches, and external presentations to be made by the Director-General;
- Acts as the focal point for substantive internal communications, including drafting messages from the DG and COO to managers and staff at HQ and other IDLO offices;
- Keeps abreast of regional and thematic trends in areas of interest to IDLO in order to update the Director-General and the Chief Operating Officer;
- In collaboration with the Department of External Relations, ensures regular communications from the DG to external stakeholders, including members of the International Advisory Council, the Board of Advisors and the Standing Committee;
- In close collaboration with the Resource Mobilization Unit and External Relations supports the DG to establish and maintain close working contacts with key stakeholders from governments, civil society, regional organizations and other relevant international entities;
- Manages and guides the work of other staff in the Executive Office and builds an effective, coherent team to support the DG and COO.
IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE & REQUIREMENTS
Substantial experience and in-depth understanding of rule of law, access to justice and international development issues needed. Strong drafting skills in English is required; record of publications will be an advantage.
Education
· Graduate degree in political science, public policy, economics, or law degree, or related field required. Post graduate degree in relevant field preferred.
Work experience
· Minimum 8-10 (eight to ten) years of significant relevant professional experience, preferably within international settings (UN, IGO, INGO).
· Experience in research, report and/or speechwriting, preferably with a background in public policy and/or executive communications.
Languages
· Full professional competence of written and verbal communication skills in English is essential. Working knowledge in French or Spanish an advantage.
Specific knowledge, skills and competencies
· Excellent research, analytical and drafting skills;
· Strong attention to detail;
· Demonstrated success of working with senior executives;
· Demonstrated sound judgment;
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills; ability to work constructively with several internal and external stakeholders;
· Ability to work independently and manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment;
· Good team player, positive attitude, flexible mind, and comfortable in working in multi-cultural settings;
· Ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines, flexibility and an entrepreneurial spirit;
- Keen sense of ethics, integrity and commitment to IDLO's mandate;
· Self-motivated and dynamic with a willingness and ability to use initiative to assist the Organization to achieve its objectives;
· Ability and willingness to travel to the field, including post-conflict countries;
· Excellent knowledge of Microsoft Office package. Proficient use of other ICT software and internet software.
COMPENSATION AND BENEFITS
The annual salary level for this fixed-term professional staff internationally recruited position is in the range of € 61,000 as per IDLO’s salary scale, and according to qualifications and experience, plus other admissible allowances such as education, housing, relocation and home leave.
The compensation is net of tax. IDLO offers competitive remuneration and benefit package: subsidized health insurance coverage including life insurance, medical and dental through Vanbreda/CIGNA International to the staff member and eligible dependents. Entitlement to the IDLO Provident Fund where IDLO contributes 14% of the staff member’s base salary.
DISCLAIMER AND CLOSING DATE
The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the staff member assigned to this work. This is not an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.
The Director-General of IDLO reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities or even to cancel the recruitment to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.
Application deadline is 14 November 2014.
How to apply:
All interested applicants are encouraged to apply via our website www.idlo.int/jobs and submit the completed IDLO Personal History Form (PHF), resume and cover letter.
IDLO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in all areas of its operations. We welcome and encourage diverse applications.
