Humanitarian Representative

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Established in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide, providing assistance based solely on need, irrespective of race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that binds MSF’s 24 sections and 28 associations together, registered in Switzerland. It provides coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement, implementing international projects and initiatives as requested.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Representative position is designed to enhance MSF's engagement and understanding of the Russian Federation and the Former Soviet Union (FSU). The role is crucial for maintaining institutional memory and facilitating communication with Russian representatives outside the Russian Federation. The incumbent will operate within a sensitive geopolitical environment, contributing to the operational teams by ensuring that relevant developments and strategic considerations are communicated to appropriate MSF stakeholders. The position requires a proactive approach to contextual analysis and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes while supporting MSF's mission to advocate for humanitarian needs and operational space.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Analysis: Provide contextual analysis and updates on developments in the Russian Federation, South Caucasus, and Central Asia that may impact MSF’s operations. Support operations by providing ad hoc analyses and briefings on topics of interest. Develop and review scenarios regarding MSF’s presence in Russia, focusing on conditions for potential future operations. Monitor risks associated with MSF being designated as an 'undesirable organization' in Russia.
• Engagement and Networking: Maintain and expand the network of Russian interlocutors, identifying engagement opportunities globally. Support MSF operational teams in their engagement with Russian representatives in countries where MSF operates.
• Internal Coordination: Coordinate the HRT BRICS working group, facilitating information sharing and strategic alignment among its members.
• Other Responsibilities: Facilitate coordination and reporting among MSF colleagues engaging with Russian stakeholders, and maintain the Russia Online Archives for data collection.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Master's degree (M.A.) or equivalent, or six to ten years of related experience and/or training. Extensive field working knowledge/experience with MSF is mandatory. Candidates should demonstrate a strong commitment to humanitarian principles and possess knowledge of international humanitarian affairs, particularly regarding diplomatic networks in Russia and its surrounding regions. Strategic vision, creativity in problem-solving, and the ability to synthesize complex information are essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a Master's degree (M.A.) or equivalent, or possess six to ten years of relevant experience and/or training. This educational background should ideally be complemented by practical experience in humanitarian contexts, particularly with MSF or similar organizations.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive (field) working knowledge and experience with MSF, demonstrating a deep understanding of the organization's operations and humanitarian principles. Experience in navigating complex political environments and engaging with high-level stakeholders is crucial for this role.

Languages:
Written and spoken English and Russian are required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the region may be considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders effectively.

Additional Notes:
The position is a full-time contract for a duration of 12 months, starting on December 1, 202

• The successful candidate will be offered a contract in the MSF office that can issue contracts in their country of residence at the time of application. MSF is committed to an inclusive culture and encourages applications from diverse backgrounds. All offers of employment are subject to reference checks and appropriate screening checks.