United States of America: Advocate, Latin America

The advocate for Latin America takes the lead role in advancing RI’s work on the refugee, displacement and other humanitarian crises in the region, including the current crises in Venezuela and Central America. The advocate will maintain relationships with key networks and advocacy targets relevant to these regional crises. The advocate will also carry out field missions which focus on the specific humanitarian and protection needs in the region.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities

· Devise and carry out advocacy strategies to pursue the objectives on Latin America in RI’s strategic plan, including current crises in Venezuela and Central America. Work closely with colleagues to develop and carry out the agreed-upon strategy.

· Help create and track new policy and strategic directions on Latin America as applicable.

· Conduct three or four field missions a year to assess the impact of conflict and displacement on humanitarian needs in Latin America and analyze gaps in the international response to their needs for assistance and protection.

· Write field reports and issue briefs that analyze humanitarian crises and challenges in Latin America and make recommendations to meet these challenges. Devise and carry out an advocacy strategy toward achieving the recommendations outlined in these reports and papers.

· Hold frequent meetings with U.S. government officials, UN agency personnel, and other relevant actors to advocate on behalf of displaced and vulnerable populations in Latin America or on matters of overall policy and strategy.

· Write articles for publication in media outlets, including newspapers and scholarly journals. Prepare testimony or statements for Congressional hearings, briefings or debates, and advocacy letters to relevant officials.

· Develop media contacts and conduct interviews to advance the advocacy agenda of the organization.

· Represent the agency at coordination meetings organized by NGOs, the U.S. government, the UN, think tanks, and other relevant institutions.

· Track implementation of key initiatives related to Latin America at the UN, EU, U.S. government, and regional organizations.

· Strategize and, where appropriate, lead relevant coalitions to enhance RI’s visibility and impact.

· Contribute to grant proposals and reports related to Latin America. Provide briefings and background in support of RI’s development team.

· Perform other reasonably related duties as assigned.

Special Education/Experience: Desirable Qualifications

A Master’s Degree in international affairs, political science, journalism, etc. which included the study of international humanitarian issues and the impacts of conflict in Latin America;

three to five years of professional experience involving some combination of field work in Latin America, preferably on humanitarian crises and displacement, and advocacy and policy work.

Special Knowledge/Skills: Desirable Qualifications

· Familiarity with recent conflicts and crises in the Latin America region;

· Familiarity with United States foreign policy and government structure and with the United Nations system;

· Proven record of successful implementation of advocacy strategies and campaigns;

· Strong communication skills, especially writing and public speaking are essential;

· English language fluency;

· Working knowledge of Spanish is necessary, fluency is desirable.

· Ability to work well with others in small teams and to meet tight deadlines;

· Willingness to travel to humanitarian crisis zones three to four times for up to a total of three months per year;

· flexibility, collegiality, and sense of humor.

To apply please send an email to jobs@refugeesinternational.org.

Applications should include a cover letter, writing sample, and resume. In the subject line, type Latin America Advocate and your family name.

Expected Salary: $55,000-$62,000, depending on background and experience.