Officer, Operations

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established to conduct in-depth investigations and provide incisive reporting on human rights issues worldwide. HRW is known for its innovative advocacy campaigns and has been successful in influencing the policies and practices of governments and international institutions regarding human rights. The organization operates globally, with a diverse team of employees dedicated to promoting human rights and ensuring accountability for violations. HRW values diversity and inclusivity within its workforce, actively seeking candidates from various backgrounds to enrich its mission and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
The Operations Officer position at Human Rights Watch is crucial for the day-to-day functioning of the Stockholm and Copenhagen offices, as well as the HRW Norwegian Foundation. This role is designed to ensure that operations run smoothly and efficiently, supporting the organization's mission to uphold human rights. The Operations Officer will report directly to the Associate Director of Operations based in Amsterdam and will be part of a global team of 18 employees dedicated to supporting the operations and finances of HRW’s non-US entities. The position requires a commitment to working from the office at least three days a week and must be located within commuting distance of the Stockholm office. The Operations Officer will engage in various functions, including finance, legal governance, human resources, facilities administration, and information technology, making it a multifaceted role that requires a diverse skill set and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Operations Officer include acting as the local finance representative, managing bank accounts and cash flows for the Scandinavian and Norway Foundations, and assisting in budget monitoring for the offices. The officer will also be responsible for processing financial transactions, running financial reports, and preparing for annual audits. In terms of legal governance, the officer will assist with compliance to local laws, coordinate Board meetings, and ensure that all entity information is updated. The human resources responsibilities include responding to HR queries, administering payroll, and assisting with recruitment and onboarding processes. Facilities administration duties involve maintaining office functionality, handling maintenance issues, and coordinating office events. Additionally, the officer will liaise with IT to troubleshoot technical issues and ensure that the office operates smoothly.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Operations Officer position must possess a bachelor’s degree or equivalent training/work experience in fields such as business administration, nonprofit management, human resources, or international relations. A minimum of three years of operations or administrative experience is required, preferably within a global organization. Experience in accounting, bookkeeping, nonprofit management, or human resources is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate excellent organizational, analytical, and financial skills, along with strong interpersonal abilities and attention to detail. Self-motivation, initiative, and the ability to work independently while also being a team player are essential. The ability to manage multiple tasks under pressure and meet deadlines is crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Operations Officer position includes a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields such as business administration, nonprofit management, human resources, or international relations. This educational foundation is essential to equip the candidate with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the diverse functions of the role effectively.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of three years of relevant experience in operations or administrative roles, ideally within a global organization. Candidates with experience in accounting, bookkeeping, nonprofit management, or human resources will be given preference. This level of experience is necessary to ensure that the Operations Officer can handle the complexities of the role and contribute effectively to the organization's operations.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Swedish is mandatory for this position, as excellent oral and written communication skills in both languages are required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered a plus, and a basic understanding of other Scandinavian languages is desirable. This linguistic capability is important for effective communication within the diverse team and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The Operations Officer position is a full-time role, requiring 40 hours of work per week. The salary range for this position is between SEK 542,000 and SEK 596,000, and HRW offers competitive compensation along with employer-paid benefits. Applicants must possess valid Swedish work authorization to be considered for this role. The application process requires candidates to submit a letter of interest and a resume/CV through HRW's online job portal. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. HRW emphasizes its commitment to diversity and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply.