Switzerland: Geneva Representative & Policy Advisor

1.Terms ofReference

Job Title: Geneva Representative & Policy Advisor

Code: SR-00-635

Country: Switzerland

Duty Station: Geneva with travels to Brussels, New York, Donor Agencies Offices and field locations on a needs basis

Starting date: 01/09/2018

Contract duration: 12 months renewable

Reporting to: Secretary General

2.General context of the project

INTERSOS is an Italy-based humanitarian organisation that works globally to bring protection and assistance to refugees and persons of concern who flee persecution, and are victims of armed conflicts as well in situations of natural disasters. INTERSOS, with its own HQ and field-based humanitarian operators, intervene to effectively meet the needs of people in crisis with particular focus on extremely vulnerable groups, including women and children. Over the years, INTERSOS has engaged in operations that encompass multi-sectorial activities such as health care, water, hygiene and sanitation, legal protection and other needed assistance, including warehousing and distribution of essential goods, shelter as well as psychosocial support and education.

3.General purpose of the position

The incumbent will be based in Geneva, Switzerland. Under the direct supervision of INTERSOS Secretary General and in close coordination and cooperation with the Director of Programmes and the Regional Directors, he/she is responsible for the representation of INTERSOS among the humanitarian actors and donors based in Geneva and elsewhere, as well in the dissemination of INTERSOS policies and positioning in responding to humanitarian needs.

4.Main responsibilities and tasks

· Liaise with the United Nations Organisations and its Specialised Agencies, the ICRC and other main humanitarian networks based in Geneva and Brussels in supporting HQ in the development of organisational policies, particularly concerning humanitarian issues;

· Liaise with Permanent Missions to the United Nations Office at Geneva in promoting the humanitarian work of INTERSOS;

· Pro-actively represent the Organisation in selected meetings and briefings in Geneva and elsewhere as may be relevant for a further development of INTERSOS strategies and work plans;

· Represent INTERSOS in the works of NGO networks where INTERSOS is member, i.e. ICVA in Geneva and VOICE in Brussels;

· Undertake policy and political analysis aimed at strengthening INTERSOS’ understanding of, and ability to possibly influence relevant UN and major institutional Donors policies and practices regarding current and future processes and policies;

· Under the supervision of INTERSOS Secretary General and in coordination with the Programmes and Communication Directors and other relevant Work Units at HQ, develop the organisation’s advocacy strategy and positioning on main humanitarian topics and thematic issues;

· Implement advocacy activities: carry out context, stakeholders and policy analysis on humanitarian issues, draft appropriate papers (talking points, policy/briefing/discussion papers, lessons learned, etc.) ensuring that advocacy messages are adapted and conveyed to target audiences appropriately;

· Ensure collaboration with other NGOs in policy, advocacy and operations promoting joint advocacy and actions where possible;

· Ensure regular flow of information with HQs in Rome through sharing of relevant humanitarian documentation, publications, minutes, reflections and analysis of meetings, reports, etc.;

· Promote INTERSOS' image, role, presence and activities in pertinent publications and joint advocacy with other humanitarian actors and partners where possible;

· Support INTERSOS' field programmes through field visits and short missions bringing and lifting the global dimension at the regional or country level ensuring that the representation of the organization at the Geneva level or elsewhere reflects issues and realities on the ground;

· Propose and where required organise briefings, workshops and meetings to promote the work of INTERSOS;

· Brief relevant staff members (Heads of Missions, Regional Directors, etc.) and actively seek their involvement and support on policy and advocacy issues;

· On a needs basis, represent the organization in key events be it in New York and Washington, including in relevant operational monitoring processes related to the European Commission in Brussels, and with other donor governments in the relevant capitals.

5.Required profile and experience

· Advanced university degree (master's or equivalent) in Social Sciences, Economics, International Relations, Political Sciences, or related field;

· Minimum 7 years of relevant experience at the national or international level in policy dialogue and advocacy;

· Experience in providing Senior Policy Advisor/Policy Specialist services and establishing inter-relationships among international organizations and national governments;

· Demonstrated experience with drafting reports and/or policy documents;

· Extensive experience in research, policy analysis and advocacy;

· Usage of computers and office software packages;

· Demonstrated experience in humanitarian policy / diplomacy;

· Sound representation experience, with preference for experience in engagement with Member States, multilateral institutions and international organisations;

· Familiarity with UN systems, tools and procedures is desirable. Understanding of humanitarian principles, humanitarian access, humanitarian financing is a benefit;

· Excellent written and oral communication skills in English;

· Working knowledge of French is desirable.

For further information and to apply, follow the link below:

https://www.intersos.org/posizioni-aperte/#intersosorg-vacancies/vacancy-details/5b4db9afbb00ef11873494e6/

In case you encounter difficulties applying through INTERSOS' platform, you can also apply by sending your CV, motivation letter and 2 references via email to recruitment@intersos.org , with subject line: "SR -00-635 - Geneva Representative & Policy Advisor - Switzerland ".

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for the first interview.