Position description
Overview
The Shaikh Group (TSG) is hiring a full-time Senior Political Officer to lead its expanding programme in the East and Horn of Africa. The ideal candidate will bring extensive experience in the field of political affairs and conflict resolution in the region and an established network of relevant contacts. They will play a leading role in shaping the strategic direction of TSG’s work, with an initial focus on Sudan and Somalia, establishing and overseeing the implementation of innovative mediation and dialogue initiatives that help advance ongoing conflict resolution efforts.
The Senior Political Officer will report to TSG’s CEO and will work with significant autonomy, travelling broadly in the region and engaging with regional and international stakeholders at all levels.
Responsibilities
Design and implementation of initiatives
- Set the strategic direction and focus of TSG initiatives in the East and Horn of Arica.
- Building on research and stakeholder engagement, develop proposals for innovative dialogue and mediation initiatives in the region.
- Lead the implementation of dialogue and mediation initiatives, convening local and international actors, facilitating workshops and roundtables, and engaging stakeholders at all levels.
- Manage additional political officers or consultants working on specific projects.
- Provide expert advice on requests for support as required.
- Support the design of effective monitoring and evaluation approaches, and track progress toward specific project outcomes.
Relationship building and engagement
- Lead engagement with local stakeholders from different political, military, civil society, activist and professional backgrounds.
- Lead engagement with regional and international policymakers to consult on and promote project outcomes.
- Undertake frequent trips in the region to engage with a broad range of stakeholders.
- Develop and maintain relationships with relevant local, regional and international stakeholders and organisations.
Policy analysis, reporting and monitoring
- Monitor and analyse political, security and economic developments in the region to inform TSG programming and ensure the adoption of conflict sensitive approaches.
- Draft/oversee production of reports, advocacy papers and briefings related to project outcomes.
- Liaise with donor partners and ensure project reporting requirements are met.
- Support project development and fundraising as required, in collaboration with other colleagues.
Qualifications
Qualifications
Required
- An advanced university degree in a relevant discipline (e.g., regional studies, political science, international relations, conflict resolution) or equivalent experience.
- At least 9 years of relevant work experience, including experience working in the region.
- Expert knowledge and understanding of political and international affairs in the East and Horn of Africa.
- Excellent political research and analysis skills.
- Excellent communication, drafting and editing skills in English.
- Fluency in Somali or Arabic (or other relevant language skills).
- 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.
- Experience as a leader or manager, overseeing the work of teams operating in politically sensitive environments.
Desired
- Previous experience working on mediation, conflict resolution or dialogue facilitation.
- In-depth country experience in either Sudan or Somalia.
- Project and financial management experience.
Location: Flexible (remote working).
Application instructions
TSG offers:
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience.
- 25 days paid annual leave.
- Other benefits (i.e. healthcare).
Start date: September 2024
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
