Director, Development and Outreach

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. The organization is known for its innovative and high-profile advocacy campaigns, which have successfully influenced the policies and practices of governments and international institutions regarding human rights. HRW operates globally, with a presence in multiple countries, and is committed to promoting human rights and social justice. The organization values diversity and inclusivity, actively seeking a diverse applicant pool and encouraging candidates from all backgrounds to apply. HRW does not discriminate based on disability, age, gender identity and expression, national origin, race and ethnicity, religious beliefs, sexual orientation, or criminal record. The organization employs individuals from various socioeconomic backgrounds and perspectives, including parents and nonparents, self-taught individuals, and those with formal education.

Job Overview:
The Director, Development and Outreach position at Human Rights Watch (HRW) is a pivotal role that focuses on leading fundraising and outreach efforts in Amsterdam and the broader Netherlands region. The successful candidate will manage a small, dynamic team based in the Amsterdam office and will report directly to the Managing Director of Development and Outreach for Northern and Central Europe, who is based in Zurich. This role is critical as it involves mobilizing support from leadership-level donors and prospects during a crucial time for the organization. The Director will be responsible for nurturing and expanding HRW's donor base, collaborating closely with the Amsterdam-based Development staff. The position requires a strategic approach to fundraising, with an emphasis on developing and overseeing a comprehensive fundraising strategy that aligns with HRW's mission and goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director will have a wide range of responsibilities, including but not limited to: developing and overseeing the strategic plan, budget, and income forecast for the fundraising strategy focused on Amsterdam and the Netherlands; seeking and securing philanthropic commitments from individual, trust, and foundation donors, particularly those with multi-year and six-figure capacities; identifying and developing strategic fundraising and outreach initiatives; fostering engagement and cultivation of prospects with the potential to donate at leadership levels; collaborating with The Netherlands Committee leadership to maximize fundraising results; assisting with the execution of bi-annual fundraising events; researching and soliciting prospective foundations; educating donors about planned giving options; representing HRW to existing and prospective supporters; ensuring sustainable growth in line with financial targets; overseeing income tracking, projections, and expenditure budgets; and performing any other responsibilities as required. Additionally, the Director will provide leadership and mentorship to the Amsterdam Development team, fostering an inclusive and positive work environment, and collaborating with staff to develop initiatives aimed at movement-building and expanding partnerships with diverse stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in a relevant field such as international relations or social sciences. A minimum of ten years of fundraising experience with major and leadership-level donors is required, including at least five years of management experience. Candidates should demonstrate success in creating and managing major gift programs and have extensive experience in building and maintaining high-level donor relationships. Strong oral and written communication skills in both Dutch and English are essential, along with strong presentation abilities. Proven experience in budgeting, revenue tracking, and projections is required, as well as a strong commitment to human rights and international issues. Candidates should also have strong technological skills, including familiarity with Salesforce or other relational databases, and outstanding interpersonal skills for effective collaboration within the organization and with external partners.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a bachelor's degree or equivalent work experience in a relevant field such as international relations, social sciences, or related studies. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of fundraising and outreach in the context of human rights advocacy.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of ten years of fundraising experience, specifically with major and leadership-level donors. This experience should include at least five years in a management role, demonstrating the ability to lead and motivate a team effectively. Candidates should have a proven track record of success in soliciting six-figure gifts and managing major gift programs, as well as experience overseeing fundraising strategies around events.

Languages:
Fluency in both Dutch and English is mandatory for this position, as excellent oral and written communication skills in both languages are required. Strong presentation abilities in both languages are also essential. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This is a full-time position based in Amsterdam, with the expectation that the successful candidate will work from the office three days a week, with the option to work remotely for the remaining days. The role may require occasional nights and weekends to support fundraising events. The salary range for this position, if based in the Netherlands, is EU 102,000 – 112,000, plus benefits. HRW offers a relocation assistance package and immigration support if required, and encourages applications from individuals of all nationalities.