Regional Policy and Campaigns Advisor

Registration: 31 December 2018

Context

EarthRights International (ERI) is a nongovernmental, nonprofit organization that combines the power of law and the power of people in defense of human rights and the environment, which we define as “earth rights.” We specialize in fact-finding, legal actions, training of grassroots and community leaders, and advocacy campaigns. EarthRights International seeks to defend earth rights by working closely with communities to find real solutions that promote and protect human rights and the environment. We are currently seeking an experienced Policy and Advocacy manager to join our team. The post is based in Thailand and requires frequent travel throughout the Mekong region.

Summary of position

Reporting to the Mekong – Myanmar Campaign Director, the Regional Policy and Campaigns Advisor is primarily responsible for overseeing and implementing ERI’s campaign and advocacy activities in Southeast Asia, including policy research and analysis, capacity building and networking, advocacy and campaigning.  The Regional Policy and Campaigns Advisor will work across the following program areas: 1) Earth Rights Defenders; 2) Local Engagement, Action, and Dialogue (LEAD); 3) Earth Rights School; 4 Corporate Accountability; 5) Mega-projects; and 6) Climate Justice.  The role will also support ERI’s partners, allies and affiliates on the preparation and implementation of national, regional and international advocacy and campaigning initiatives.

Roles and responsibilities

Lead the design and implementation of national and regional advocacy and campaigning strategies designed to maximize impact and in line with ERI’s strategic priorities.

Support program objectives including media relations, research initiatives, academic and public publications, presentations, and other initiatives deemed appropriate within country-specific contexts.

Conduct research and policy analysis related to Special Economic Zones, land reform, energy (including coal and renewable energy), and outbound investments in all Mekong countries.

Coordinate with ERI’s global campaign and advocacy team.

Prepare policy briefs on topic relevant to ERI’s advocacy and campaign initiatives.

Facilitate networking and collaboration with regional and international stakeholders working on the human rights and environmental aspects of energy policy in the Mekong region.

Collaborate with ERI’s legal team on their legal and policy analysis related to all campaign and advocacy activities.

In agreement with the Mekong-Myanmar Campaign Director and the Regional Director, represent ERI to governments, academics, international organizations, media, and the general public assuring a consistent voice for ERI’s positions on policy issues.

Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of ERI’s campaigns and advocacy efforts in the region.

Facilitate training, workshops, and outreach events.

When applicable, supervise interns, and other ERI staff, in campaign/advocacy activities.

Draft curriculum materials and teach workshops on media and strategic campaigning and advocacy at the Earth Rights School in Thailand and elsewhere, as appropriate.

Write regular reports and updates and support donor reporting.

Meet with and conduct outreach with donors, foundation staff, and other prospective ERI supporters, under the guidance of the Mekong-Myanmar Campaign Director and the Regional Director.

Qualifications

Minimum of five years of experience designing and implementing advocacy campaigns that link community rights with national and international policies.

Excellent communication skills in English (written and spoken) is essential for this position. Other Mekong languages, especially Mandarin Chinese, are highly desirable.

Experience working in the field of business and human rights, environment, law, and/or international development with a focus on private sector engagement or corporate social responsibility.

Understanding of the environmental and human rights risks associated with large-scale development projects.

Demonstrated knowledge of policy issues related to coal and renewable energy.

Ability to communicate complex information in understandable formats for a range of target audiences, including local communities, business actors, and government stakeholders.

Experience engaging with and influencing governments as well as corporate actors

Understanding of the political, social, economic, and cultural contexts in the Mekong region.

Demonstrated ability to research and analyze policies and laws and apply this to advocacy work.

Experiences preparing, monitoring, and managing budgets.

Experiences managing and developing staff.

Experience training civil society actors or community leaders.

Strong understanding of gender issues and how to incorporate these into advocacy and campaigning initiatives.

Excellent interpersonal skills with positive and professional attitude and a track record of building strong relationships with a wide range of local and international partners.

Ability to work independently, guide staff, and manage time effectively.

Experience living or working in the Mekong countries.

Strongly preferred:

Experience working on China’s foreign investments (competency in written and spoken Mandarin Chinese is highly desired).

Track record of working collaboratively both with grassroots community movements and international NGOs.

Excellent cross-cultural communication skills, including experience working with colleagues from across Southeast Asia and Western countries.

Demonstrated gender sensitivity.

Experience implementing security procedures in sensitive operating environments.

Demonstrated intercultural working experience.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should email their cover letter describing their interest in the job along with a CV to the following email address apply-sea@earthrights.org  by 31 December 2018 at the latest. Please use “Regional Policy and Campaigns Advisor” as your subject line. Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

 

Source: https://earthrights.org/careers/regional-policy-and-campaigns-advisor/