Press Associate

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization established to investigate and report on human rights violations globally. Known for its rigorous investigations and incisive reporting, HRW has been influential in advocating for policy changes among governments and international institutions. The organization operates in multiple countries, employing a diverse workforce committed to human rights advocacy. HRW's mission is to protect human rights and promote justice, and it actively seeks to create a diverse and inclusive work environment.

Job Overview:
The Press Associate position within the Communications Division of Human Rights Watch is a vital role that supports the organization's media outreach and public awareness efforts. The successful candidate will be based in one of HRW's offices located in Amman, Beirut, or Johannesburg. This role involves providing editorial assistance and administrative support to the Communications team, which is part of the Media Department. The Media Department's primary function is to craft effective messages and identify the right audiences to raise awareness about human rights violations documented by HRW. The Press Associate will assist the HRW Press Team with various materials published daily, including copy editing and administrative tasks. The position requires collaboration with colleagues across different time zones and the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Press Associate will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including but not limited to: copy editing, formatting, and distributing materials; coordinating the review, production, translation, and distribution of reports, news releases, letters, charts, briefing papers, op-eds, and web content; tracking the editorial flow of research and media products; collaborating with associates in different time zones on media roundups and analyses; handling queries from journalists and connecting them with relevant staff; acting as a liaison between the Sydney office and the USA offices; maintaining extensive contact databases and filing systems; updating the HRW Press pipeline and publishing schedules; providing administrative support, including managing divisional finances and travel arrangements; processing translation invoices; assisting with organizing events such as press conferences; conducting desk research; and performing other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, English, social sciences, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of one year of relevant work experience is required. Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong organizational skills, attention to detail, resourcefulness, and the ability to work independently. Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are essential, along with the ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure and meet deadlines. Strong interpersonal skills are necessary for effective collaboration within HRW and with external partners. Proficiency in MS Office applications and experience in copy editing or proofing are required. An understanding of news cycles and international media outlets is preferred, along with a demonstrated commitment to human rights and international issues.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as communications, journalism, English, social sciences, or international relations. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the duties of the Press Associate effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of one year of relevant work experience. This experience should ideally be in a communications or media-related role, where the candidate has developed skills in copy editing, media relations, and administrative support. The ability to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a strong asset and is highly desirable, as it can enhance communication with diverse media professionals and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in one of HRW's offices in Amman, Beirut, or Johannesburg. The application deadline is December 18, 202

• HRW offers competitive compensation and employer-paid benefits. The organization actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply. HRW is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate based on disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. The organization values diversity and aims to create an inclusive work environment.