Director, Washington, DC

Human Rights Watch•Washington, DC

8h•$133,000 - $157,000•Onsite

About The Position

Human Rights Watch (HRW) is seeking a highly strategic and effective leader with compelling communication and interpersonal skills for the position of Washington, DC, Director. This role involves formulating and executing advocacy strategies on US foreign policy and national security issues, translating HRW research into tangible human rights impact, and coordinating with the US Program on domestic issues. The Director will serve as a key advocacy strategist and principal HRW representative in the US on foreign policy and national security, staying attuned to the US political landscape. The position requires engaging and cultivating relationships with high-level policymakers in the Executive branch and Congress, collaborating with civil society organizations, and possessing a sophisticated grasp of the media landscape. Fundraising assistance may also be required.

Requirements

Graduate degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or equivalent work experience.
A minimum of ten years of policy advocacy work experience.
At least four years of management experience.
Substantial knowledge of US government departments and agencies.
Direct experience performing policy advocacy with one or more US government bodies is strongly desired.
Significant human rights experience and expertise, and a demonstrated commitment to human rights.
Excellent political and strategic judgment and analytical and strategic-thinking capabilities.
Effective, concise public speaker.
Excellent speaking, writing, and editing skills in English.
Ability to work quickly and effectively under pressure.
Capacity to pay close attention to detail while working in a fast-paced environment and juggling multiple tasks.
Strong coordination skills.
Ability to work effectively independently, as part of a team, and in partnership with other organizations.

Nice To Haves

Work experience in an international environment, with culturally diverse teams and across multiple time zones, is a strong advantage.

Responsibilities

Lead HRW’s advocacy in the US on foreign policy and national security, formulating and executing advocacy and media strategies on various issues and countries, and collaborating with the US Program on domestic issues.
Promote and coordinate HRW’s work in the US to influence decisionmakers in key government bodies, build relationships with policymakers, provide evidence to congressional committees, speak at public events, influence think tanks, and represent the organization in the human rights movement.
Strategize with the US Senior Media Officer on promoting HRW’s work to traditional and social media, building journalist relationships, writing and speaking on human rights issues, and deploying storytelling skills to promote human rights values.
Coordinate closely with HRW advocates globally, at the UN, EU, and in regional and thematic teams, and collaborate with various HRW departments to identify and create opportunities supporting US-involved research and advocacy.
Provide US political analysis, perspective, and guidance on policy responses, coordinate talking points, and respond to relevant news events and policy debates.
Partner with US Development colleagues to build relationships with donors and financial prospects by representing HRW.
Work with non-governmental organizations, civil society partners, and other key actors on collaborative advocacy efforts.
Contribute to internal HRW policies and strategic debates, providing analysis on UK human rights policies and their foreign and security implications.
Provide leadership, motivation, and mentorship to direct reports, setting clear expectations and providing feedback.
Perform other responsibilities as required.