Director of Citizen Engagement

Position:Director of Citizen EngagementLocation:Mogadishu or Hargeisa, SomaliaDivision:Media, Civil Society and TechnologyIREX is an international nonprofit organization providing thought leadership and innovative programs to promote positive lasting change globally. We enable local individuals and institutions to build key elements of a vibrant society: quality education, independent media, and strong communities. To strengthen these sectors, our program activities also include conflict resolution, technology for development, women and youth.Founded in 1968, IREX has an annual portfolio of over $70 million and a staff of over 400 professionals worldwide. IREX employs field-tested methods and innovative uses of technologies to develop practical and locally-driven solutions with our partners in more than 100 countries.IREX seeks a Director of Citizen Engagement for an anticipated USAID-funded governance project in Somalia. The goal of the project is to support the development of more effective and accountable Somali government institutions. The Director of Citizen Engagement will lead a component of the program designed to increase citizen awareness of and engagement with government decision-making through work with civil society and media.The position is contingent on funding.Provide strategic leadership for civil society and media-focused activities as member of program’s senior leadership teamDeliver direct technical assistance and mentoring to key partnersEngage civil society and the media to increase citizens’ awareness about the constitutional implementation process, government structures, and the roles and responsibilities of elected officials and citizensCreate opportunities for civil society groups, media, business associations, universities, think tanks, and others to engage effectively with government institutionsBuild capacity of citizens to have a better understanding of their government, rights and responsibilitiesBuild capacity of CSOs and media to gather and represent citizen input, raise awareness, advocate, and give input to government on key policies, legislation, and programsSupervise staff and budget as well as monitoring, evaluation and reporting of program activitiesRepresent IREX publicly and support its organizational developmentBachelor’s degree in relevant field is required; Master’s degree preferredAt least 7 years of experience in developing the capacity of civil society and media organizations in the context of good governance programmingPrior successful senior leadership of donor-supported programs focused on good governanceExperience in Somalia preferred, including demonstrated understanding of conflict-affected environments and youth and gender issuesProven ability to establish and maintain effective and collaborative relationships with civil society groups, opinion leaders, communities, the media, government officials and representatives of the international community at the national and local levelExcellent interpersonal skills and the ability to lead and work in a complex settingsDemonstrated ability to communicate skills and experience to others effectively as a trainer or advisor.Strong command of English language is requiredOutstanding verbal and written communication, interpersonal, and cross-cultural skillsDemonstrated leadership, integrity, and versatilityo to http://www.irex.org/careers and click on Current Openings. Then click on the corresponding position and apply through our website. Please supply a resume and a cover letter with your application. If you are creating a new profile you need to do so and then go back in to apply for a position.