Senior Policy Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is an organization driven by the belief that a better world is possible. Established with a mission to help people build secure, productive, and just communities, Mercy Corps operates in numerous countries around the globe. The organization emphasizes diversity within its teams, believing that varied backgrounds, perspectives, and skills contribute to stronger outcomes and long-term impact. Mercy Corps is committed to fostering an inclusive environment where every team member feels they belong, which is essential for achieving its global mission.

Job Overview:
The Senior Policy Advisor will play a pivotal role in leading Mercy Corps’ policy portfolio specifically for the Central and South Asia region, which includes critical areas such as Afghanistan and Yemen, as well as overseeing the U.S. foreign assistance budget. This position requires collaboration with the Global Policy and Advocacy (GPA) team and other internal teams to drive reforms in U.S. foreign policy and foreign assistance that align with Mercy Corps’ global objectives. The advisor will be responsible for drafting and advocating for relevant legislation, engaging with key Congressional leaders, and working closely with U.S. government officials, particularly in national security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, humanitarian, and peacebuilding sectors. The role also involves tracking and analyzing policy initiatives affecting priority countries in the Asia region and Yemen, and participating in coalition advocacy efforts at both domestic and international levels, including the United Nations. The Senior Policy Advisor will enhance Mercy Corps’ visibility on policy issues through representation at external events, development of policy documents for public dissemination, and support for grassroots advocacy efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Policy Advisor will be responsible for shaping legislation and policies that align with Mercy Corps’ mission. This includes developing and managing the Central and South Asia, Yemen, and U.S. foreign assistance portfolios. The advisor will implement policy-focused advocacy strategies, draft policy documents, and track legislative developments on Capitol Hill. They will lead advocacy efforts in collaboration with other NGOs and partners, publish and speak publicly to promote Mercy Corps’ work, and conduct research and analysis on relevant issues. The role requires building and maintaining relationships with senior U.S. government officials and contributing to written communications that advance Mercy Corps’ policy objectives. Additionally, the advisor will engage with country teams to ensure effective risk management systems are in place and support preparedness for major disruptive events.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in international relations, development, public policy, law, or a related field. A minimum of 5 years of relevant professional experience in areas such as climate policy, foreign assistance budgeting, and/or Africa policy issues is required. The ideal candidate will have professional experience in humanitarian, development, and national security sectors, along with strong political and strategic skills. Proven abilities in researching, analyzing, and reporting on policy issues are essential, as are excellent verbal and written communication skills. Candidates should demonstrate sensitivity and experience in working effectively within diverse cultural settings and in public relations.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in international relations, development, public policy, law, or related fields is required. A graduate degree in these areas is preferred, as it may provide a deeper understanding of the complexities involved in policy advocacy and international relations.

Experience:
The position requires at least 5 years of relevant professional experience, particularly in climate, foreign assistance budget, and/or Africa policy issues. Experience working within the U.S. Congress or U.S. foreign affairs executive government agencies is highly desirable, as is familiarity with international relief and development fieldwork and emerging humanitarian issues.

Languages:
While proficiency in one or more foreign languages is preferred, it is not mandatory. However, having language skills can enhance the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and communities in the regions of focus.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Washington, DC, with an expectation of travel up to 20% of the time to field locations that may present insecure or harsh environments. Mercy Corps team members will work remotely until at least September 1, 2021, and no global travel is required before that time. The organization emphasizes the importance of professional conduct and adherence to local laws and customs, as well as Mercy Corps’ policies and values. Team members are encouraged to dedicate 5% of their time to learning activities for personal and professional growth. Mercy Corps is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding and ethics, ensuring a respectful and dignified environment for all individuals involved.