Director

Job Posting Organization:
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is an international human rights monitoring and advocacy organization that was established to investigate and report on human rights abuses around the world. The organization is known for its in-depth investigations, incisive reporting, and innovative advocacy campaigns. HRW has a diverse workforce and operates in multiple countries, focusing on various human rights issues globally. The organization aims to change policies and practices of influential governments and international institutions to promote human rights and justice.

Job Overview:
The Director position at Human Rights Watch in Washington, DC, is a full-time role that requires a highly strategic and effective leader with exceptional communication and interpersonal skills. The successful candidate will be responsible for formulating and executing advocacy strategies related to US foreign policy and national security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security issues. This role involves staying attuned to the US political landscape and translating HRW's research into actionable opportunities that promote human rights. The Director will serve as a key advocacy strategist and the principal representative of HRW in the US, engaging with high-level policymakers, members of Congress, and civil society organizations. The position also requires close coordination with HRW's US Program on domestic issues that intersect with foreign policy and national security.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead HRW’s advocacy efforts in the US on foreign policy and national security issues, collaborating with colleagues to develop and implement advocacy and media strategies.
• Promote HRW's work to influence decision-makers, including high-level government officials and members of Congress, while building relationships and maintaining regular contact with key policymakers.
• Strategize with the US Senior Media Officer to effectively promote HRW’s work through traditional and social media, crafting compelling narratives and engaging with journalists.
• Coordinate with HRW advocates globally, collaborating with various teams to create opportunities that support research and advocacy efforts.
• Provide political analysis and guidance on US policy responses, preparing talking points and responding to relevant news events.
• Partner with US Development colleagues to build relationships with donors and represent HRW authentically.
• Collaborate with NGOs and civil society partners on advocacy efforts, strengthening strategic partnerships.
• Contribute to internal HRW policies and strategic discussions, providing insights on human rights policies and their implications.
• Offer leadership and mentorship to direct reports, setting clear expectations and providing constructive feedback. 1
• Perform additional responsibilities as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a graduate degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or equivalent work experience. A minimum of ten years of policy advocacy work experience is required, including at least four years in a management role. Experience in an international environment with culturally diverse teams is highly advantageous. Candidates should have substantial knowledge of US government departments and agencies, direct experience in policy advocacy, and a strong commitment to human rights. Excellent political judgment, strategic thinking, and effective public speaking skills are essential. Candidates must be able to work effectively under pressure, pay attention to detail, and manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.

Educational Background:
A graduate degree in international relations, journalism, law, social sciences, or a related field is required. Equivalent work experience may also be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of experience in policy advocacy, with at least four years in a management capacity. Experience working in an international context and with diverse teams across multiple time zones is a significant advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with excellent speaking, writing, and editing skills. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Washington, DC. The salary range for this role is between US$ 133,000 and US$ 157,000, with competitive compensation and generous employer-paid benefits. The application deadline is November 1, 202

• Interested candidates should apply through HRW's online job portal, attaching a letter of interest and a CV or resume. HRW encourages a diverse applicant pool and is an equal opportunity employer.