Governance and Risk Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a leading global organization founded on the belief that a better world is possible. Established to provide assistance in disaster situations and hardships, Mercy Corps operates in more than 40 countries worldwide. The organization partners with local communities to implement bold solutions that help individuals overcome adversity and build stronger communities from within. The breadth and impact of Mercy Corps' programs make it a unique and rewarding place to work, attracting talented individuals who share a passion for humanitarian work and community development.

Job Overview:
The Governance and Risk Management Officer will be an integral part of the Legal Department, focusing on corporate governance matters for Mercy Corps Boards and ensuring compliance with various regulatory frameworks. This role involves managing regulatory filings, coordinating the organization's policy framework, and overseeing enterprise risk management workstreams. The successful candidate will utilize strategic thinking and writing skills, along with a high level of discretion, to manage projects effectively. They will work closely with the General Counsel and other key stakeholders, proactively identifying opportunities for process improvement and facilitating efficient operations within the organization. Strong organizational and interpersonal skills are essential, as is the ability to adapt to changing needs and manage competing priorities across multiple teams and geographies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Governance and Risk Management Officer will be responsible for managing governance policies and procedures for the Mercy Corps Boards, which includes administering minutes and maintaining the corporate book. They will coordinate reports for Board Committees under the Legal Department's oversight and manage annual compliance requirements for Board Directors. The officer will maintain and advise on compliance with corporate charity regulatory frameworks for the US, UK, and Netherlands, including IRS, OSCR, KvK, and Companies House, while supporting annual reporting and managing regulatory filings. They will develop, draft, and maintain governance-related documents, processes, and reports, advising stakeholders on governance requirements and processes. The officer will also coordinate Mercy Corps' policy management framework and policy review process, support the Legal Department's oversight of governance for other Mercy Corps entities and affiliates globally, and lead special initiatives related to the Board of Directors and governance workstreams. Additionally, they will coordinate the approval of Board and Committee minutes, maintain the corporate book, and support the Legal Department in carrying out corporate secretarial responsibilities, including managing the Enterprise Risk Management Committee.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates should possess a BA/S in Law, Governance, Business Management, or a related field, with a preference for those with over three years of experience supporting in-house legal teams, the legal profession, or Board governance. Knowledge of applicable UK, Dutch, and US laws and regulations related to governance and risk management, including compliance and audit requirements, is preferred. Excellent writing and organizational skills are essential, along with a good understanding of key risk areas for international NGOs. The ability to work effectively with a variety of stakeholders and communicate across diverse backgrounds is crucial, as is the capacity to proactively identify and solve complex problems. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to manage competing priorities and work streams, and proficiency with MS Office software is required.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in Law, Governance, Business Management, or a related field is highly preferred for this position. This educational background provides the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of governance and compliance within an international NGO context.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of experience supporting in-house legal teams, the legal profession, or Board governance. Candidates should have a proven track record of working with various stakeholders and managing complex projects effectively.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is essential given the international nature of the organization. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages relevant to the countries where Mercy Corps operates.

Additional Notes:
The position does not specify contract duration or seniority level, but it is implied that the role is full-time. Mercy Corps is committed to equal employment opportunities and actively engages in safeguarding and ethical practices. Team members are expected to adhere to the organization's Code of Conduct and participate in mandatory training on these policies.