This is an exciting opportunity to lead the development of NRC’s advocacy efforts toward the EU and its Member States in key areas of interest. The role will directly support NRC’s global strategic ambitions and strengthen country and regional capacities in effective policy and advocacy strategies and activities.

What we are looking for:

We are seeking an experienced professional with a background in humanitarian affairs who has successfully led advocacy strategies influencing major institutional decision-makers. The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of and interest in EU foreign policy, European institutions, and their processes.

What you will do:

Some of your specific responsibilities include:

• Establish and lead in the implementation of targeted advocacy toward the EU and a selection of relevant Member States to advance NRC advocacy objectives on a determined number of humanitarian crises, and thematic areas, aligned with NRC Global advocacy and policy priorities.
• Consolidate NRC’s position as a leading agency for sound humanitarian policy advice through delivery of timely, specific, and evidence-based insights to EU policymakers and donors.
• Through regular meetings and travel, map-out key EU policymakers in Brussels and in relevant capitals who can effect change regarding priority advocacy issues for NRC.
• Meet with relevant EU representatives, Member States officials to convey NRC messages and to remain informed of important developments and decisions.
• Develop and maintain a network of civil society colleagues and specific files, and lead coalition work when relevant / necessary.
• Provide analysis to key NRC staff in advance of main decision-making forums or relevant processes, policy developments, key dates, and activities.
• Develop, design, and support the organisation of regular lobby missions to Brussels including visits to relevant capitals for NRC.
• Oversee and implement follow up of NRC delegations, meetings, and visits.

Please download the detailed job description to learn more about the position.

What you will bring:

• University degree or equivalent qualification in international relations, law, or social studies.
• At least 7-10 years of professional experience in humanitarian settings and complex crises.
• Demonstrated experience in leading humanitarian advocacy strategies that impact on major institutional decision makers.
• Previous experience in representing NGO’s, donors, or UN agencies in formal settings.
• Understanding and interest in EU foreign policy, European institutions, and processes.
• Demonstrated experience in developing sound and actionable policy recommendations tailored to their interlocutor. Ability to present arguments in a structured, compelling, and articulated manner.
• Previous experience in drafting speeches, talking points, and position papers. Good research and analytical skills.
• Working knowledge of international law, IHL, humanitarian principles and of the humanitarian system.
• Creative thinking and problem-solving skills. Political and cultural awareness.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including negotiation skills.
• Fluency in English, both written and verbal.
• Impeccable writing and editing skills.
• Strong planning and administrative skills, including full computer literacy (MS Word, MS Excel, MS PowerPoint).
• Organizational skills including the ability to multitask, prioritize and work efficiently with limited supervision.
• Comfortable in a multicultural professional and/or NGO environment.
• Availability to travel regularly within the EU and externally is an asset.
• Knowledge of another European language is an asset.

What we offer:

• Duty station: Brussels, Belgium.
• Contract: National 6 months contract.
• Salary/benefits: Grade 9 on NRC’s regional salary scale, with accompanying terms and conditions.
• NRC is an equal opportunities employer. We are committed to diversity without distinction to age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, and physical ability.
• We think outside the box, encourage ideas, and give responsibility to all employees at all levels. You will have many opportunities to be heard and take the initiative.

Find out more about the benefits of working for NRC

Important information about the application process:

• Internal candidates only: please click on the suitcase icon labelled “I am an employee” to be redirected to NRC’s internal careers site.
• When creating your profile, include your full name as given on your passport. Complete all the system-required fields for experience, employment history and education.
• Submit your application and CV in English, taking care to attach your latest CV.
• Applications that do not meet the minimum standards in terms of experience or qualifications will generally not be considered. Unsolicited applications not related to this specific job advertisement will not be considered.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We receive many applicants for each vacant position.

If you have any questions about this role, [email protected] with the job title as the subject line.

Why NRC?

The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organisation helping people forced to flee. Our 15,000 staff work in crises across 40 countries, providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people every year.

Watch this short video to see NRC in action.

Learn more about NRC