Deputy Director, Executive Communications

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 and timely reporting on human rights issues. HRW is known for its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns and has a proven track record of influencing the policies and practices of governments and international institutions regarding human rights. The organization operates globally, with a diverse workforce that reflects a wide range of backgrounds and perspectives, and is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion within its ranks. HRW actively seeks to create a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates from all backgrounds to apply, ensuring that its workforce is representative of the communities it serves.

Job Overview:
The director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director, Executive Communications will play a crucial role in shaping the public narrative and visibility of Human Rights Watch’s leadership. This position is designed for a strategic partner who will work closely with the Global Communications Director and senior leaders to enhance the organization's profile through effective message development, media engagement, and public appearances. The Deputy Director will be responsible for creating and implementing a comprehensive executive communications strategy that positions HRW’s leadership as authoritative voices in critical global discussions surrounding human rights and international justice. This role requires a proactive approach to developing visibility plans, preparing leaders for media interactions, and expanding HRW's reach among key stakeholders, including policymakers, donors, and the general public. The successful candidate will be expected to work from the New York office at least three days a week, collaborating with various departments to align executive communications with organizational priorities and maximize strategic opportunities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Deputy Director will have a wide range of responsibilities, including: partnering with the Director of Global Communications to establish and lead an executive communications strategy; shaping and maintaining a distinctive executive voice across various media platforms; identifying and securing influential platforms for HRW’s leadership; coordinating closely with HRW’s communications team to align executive communications with editorial and advocacy priorities; advising senior leadership on tone and positioning; preparing and briefing senior leaders for public engagements; setting high editorial standards for all content; maintaining an understanding of the evolving media landscape; and enhancing organizational media readiness through training and performance analysis. This role demands a high level of collaboration with colleagues across different teams and regions to ensure that HRW’s messaging is coherent and impactful.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess exceptional writing and editorial skills, with the ability to produce high-quality content across various formats. They should demonstrate strategic judgment and rigor, with a strong understanding of political sensitivity and editorial discipline. The ideal candidate will have experience in providing executive counsel and influence, building trusted relationships with senior leaders, and anticipating opportunities and risks. A sophisticated understanding of the global news landscape and strong media relationships are essential. Additionally, candidates should exhibit organizational leadership and collaboration skills, adaptability to changing platforms, and the ability to make informed strategic decisions. Proficiency in French is desirable but not mandatory.

Educational Background:
A bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in fields such as journalism, marketing, communications, media, or human rights is required for this position. An advanced degree is considered a plus and may enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of relevant work experience is required, ideally within a large-scale, diverse, and dynamic mission-driven organization that operates internationally. This experience should include a strong background in communications, media relations, or a related field, demonstrating the ability to navigate complex issues and engage effectively with various stakeholders.

Languages:
While proficiency in English is mandatory, proficiency in French is desirable but not required. Candidates who can communicate effectively in multiple languages may have an advantage in this role, given the international scope of HRW's work and its diverse audience.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term, full-time role with a duration of three years. The salary range for this position is competitive, between US$ 140,000 - 160,000, and includes employer-paid benefits. Applicants must possess valid work authorization for the United States, as HRW cannot guarantee sponsorship for work authorization. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applicants from all backgrounds to apply.