Political Officer, Gulf Region (GCC, Iraq, Iran)

Position description

Overview

The Shaikh Group (TSG) is hiring a full-time Political Officer to play a critical role in shaping and implementing initiatives within its Gulf Regional Security Programme. Established in 2018, this programme seeks to develop and advocate for measures that strengthen mutual regional security, with a particular focus on the GCC, Iraq and Iran.

Two ongoing initiatives within the programme include: 1) a ‘Global Powers Group’ that brings together senior former officials and experts from the US, China, Europe, India and Russia to identify areas for cooperation on promoting regional security, with a recent focus on maritime security; 2) a ‘Gulf Dialogue on Regional Economic Cooperation’ that engages policymakers, business people and experts to advance forms of economic cooperation that reinforce steps toward de-escalation and mutual security.

We are looking for a Political Officer, preferably based in the region, to support the design and delivery of these and other initiatives in the Gulf and broader MENA region. The Political Officer will report to the MENA Programme Lead and will shape the substantive direction of TSG’s activities, facilitate workshops, provide analysis, and engage with regional and international stakeholders at all levels. 

Responsibilities

Design and implementation of initiatives

• Design and support the implementation of engagement and dialogue initiatives in the context of TSG’s Gulf Security Programme, including in-person and online workshops and roundtables.
• Support the design of effective monitoring and evaluation approaches, and track progress toward specific project outcomes.

Relationship building and engagement

• Drive engagement with stakeholders from different political, private sector, and civil society backgrounds, further strengthening TSG’s network in the region.
• Undertake frequent trips in the region, individually or alongside other members of the team, to engage with a broad range of stakeholders.
• Support engagement with regional and international policymakers and institutions to promote project outcomes. 
• Develop and maintain partnerships with relevant local and international organisations. 

Policy analysis, reporting and monitoring

• Monitor and analyse political, security and economic developments in the Gulf and broader MENA region to inform TSG programming, and ensure the adoption of conflict sensitive approaches.
• Draft reports, advocacy papers and briefings related to project outcomes. 
• Liaise with international partners and support fundraising, project development and reporting.
• Support project development and fundraising as required, in collaboration with other colleagues.

Qualifications

Qualifications

Required

• A university degree in relevant discipline (e.g., Middle East studies, political science, international relations). 
• At least 5 years of relevant work experience, including experience working in the MENA region
• Expert knowledge and understanding of Middle East and international affairs, with a focus on the Gulf (GCC, Iraq, Iran)   
• Excellent political research and analysis skills. 
• Excellent communication, drafting and editing skills in English.
• Fluency in Arabic or Farsi.
• Ability to take initiative and to execute multiple tasks in a responsible and organized manner, as a member of a team. 
• Ability and willingness to travel frequently within the region.  

Desired

• Previous experience working on mediation, conflict resolution or dialogue facilitation.

Location: Flexible (remote working) with preference for GCC-based.  

Application instructions

TSG offers:

• Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
• 25 days paid annual leave.
• Other benefits (i.e. healthcare).

Start date: September 2024  

(NB: this position is subject to confirmation of funding.)

To apply, please submit a motivation letter and CV to: [email protected]

About TSG

Founded in September 2015, The Shaikh Group (TSG) is based in Cyprus and brings together a highly qualified team with extensive government, UN, diplomatic, research and policy-related experience. As a non-profit focused on mediation and conflict resolution, our mission is to facilitate dialogue within and between states, as well as with key international actors, to advance practical initiatives that promote peace, tolerance, mutual security and shared prosperity. With a presence in the Middle East and Europe, we have the proven capacity to convene dialogues with key parties throughout the region and beyond, and a strong commitment to the principles of independence and confidentiality that are essential to these processes.

To learn more about TSG, go to www.shaikhgroup.org