Associate, Media

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that has been operational for several decades. The organization is known for its rigorous investigations, incisive reporting, and high-profile advocacy campaigns aimed at influencing policies and practices of governments and international institutions regarding human rights. HRW employs a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries around the globe, focusing on various human rights issues. The organization is committed to ensuring that its research and advocacy inform global debates and reach key decision-makers, thereby driving accountability for human rights abuses wherever they occur. HRW values diversity and actively seeks to create an inclusive environment for all employees.

Job Overview:
The Associate, Media position within the Media Division of Human Rights Watch is designed for individuals who are eager to provide administrative and research assistance to the regional media team. This role is crucial in supporting the organization's efforts to enhance its public voice and influence through strategic outreach and earned media. The successful candidate will report directly to HRW’s Media Director and will be expected to work from one of HRW’s global offices, specifically in Amman, Beirut, Johannesburg, or Nairobi, with an in-office presence required 2-3 times per week. This full-time position may also require the candidate to work evenings and weekends as necessary, with appropriate compensation provided for such hours. The Associate will play a vital role in ensuring that the media team operates efficiently and effectively, contributing to the overall mission of HRW to advocate for human rights globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate, Media include:

• Providing comprehensive administrative support, which encompasses managing budgets, travel arrangements, scheduling, and performing other necessary administrative tasks.
• Assisting regional media colleagues in regularly auditing and maintaining their media lists, which include traditional press outlets as well as emerging influential platforms like newsletters and podcasts.
• Handling and responding to inquiries from journalists and other media professionals, ensuring they are connected with the appropriate HRW staff, and addressing public queries when necessary.
• Tracking, updating, and relaying important information between regional media teams and the broader communications department to ensure seamless communication.
• Liaising with the HRW Press products pipeline to keep all publishing schedules and calendars current and relevant.
• Compiling and writing media roundups and analyses for reports, news releases, and other products as needed.
• Assisting in the organization of events, including partner meetings and news conferences, both in-person and online, across various locations and time zones.
• Conducting desk research tasks and providing support as required.
• Maintaining effective communication among HRW offices, global staff, and external partners. 1
• Carrying out other duties as assigned to support the media team and HRW's mission.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Associate, Media position must possess the following qualifications:

• A bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in communications, journalism, social sciences, international relations, or related fields is required.
• A minimum of one year of relevant work experience is necessary, demonstrating familiarity with media and communications.
• Prior office or administrative experience is essential, along with strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
• Candidates must exhibit initiative, follow-through, and the ability to work independently while managing multiple priorities effectively.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory, and proficiency in additional languages is highly desirable.
• The ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines is crucial.
• Strong interpersonal skills are required to collaborate effectively within HRW and with external partners.
• Candidates should demonstrate sound decision-making abilities and take initiative when appropriate.
• Proficiency in computer programs, particularly MS Office applications, is required. 1
• Experience in proofreading is desirable, as is an understanding of news cycles and international media outlets. 1
• A demonstrated commitment to human rights and international issues, along with the capacity to represent HRW's mission and programs, is highly desirable.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for the Associate, Media position includes a bachelor’s degree or equivalent experience in relevant fields such as communications, journalism, social sciences, international relations, or other related studies. This educational foundation is essential to ensure that candidates possess the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively support the media team and contribute to HRW's mission.

Experience:
Candidates must have a minimum of one year of relevant work experience in a media or communications role. This experience should demonstrate the candidate's ability to handle administrative tasks, support media outreach efforts, and engage with journalists and media professionals effectively. The experience should also reflect a familiarity with the workings of media organizations and an understanding of the importance of human rights advocacy.

Languages:
Proficiency in English is mandatory for this position, as excellent oral and written communication skills are essential for interacting with media professionals and producing written materials. Additionally, proficiency in other languages is highly desirable, as it can enhance the candidate's ability to engage with a diverse range of media outlets and audiences.

Additional Notes:
The Associate, Media position is a full-time role that may require occasional evening and weekend work, for which appropriate compensation will be provided. Applicants must specify the location they are applying for in their application. It is important to note that candidates must possess current work authorization in the location they are applying for, as HRW is unable to provide work authorization sponsorship for this role. Human Rights Watch offers a competitive salary and comprehensive employer-paid benefits, reflecting its commitment to supporting its employees.