Head of Democratization Department (S3) - Albania

About the role

The OSCE is recruiting a Head of the Democratization Department (S3) for its presence in Albania. Under the guidance of the Head of Presence and the direct supervision of the Deputy Head of Presence, the incumbent leads the team responsible for a programme of capacity building and support for the further development of democratic society in Albania. The post is an international mission position, so nationals and permanent residents of Albania are not eligible.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction for democratization initiatives, including capacity building for democratic governance institutions and media.
• Advise senior management on thematic issues relevant to the department.
• Ensure the quality of all briefings and reports produced by the department.
• Manage the department's programme cycle according to the national context, international standards, OSCE commitments and senior management guidance.
• Oversee extra-budgetary projects and help attract funding from OSCE participating States and other donors.
• Directly manage the media development portfolio, including budgets and projects, and supervise relevant extra-budgetary staff.
• Manage human resources, supervising four current staff and overseeing the performance and development of all departmental staff.
• Maintain relations with key national and international stakeholders and represent the department in meetings.

Required profile

• Second-level university degree in political sciences, social sciences, international relations, public policy, law, media or equivalent; a first-level degree plus two years of relevant experience is accepted in lieu.
• At least 6 years of relevant, diversified and progressively responsible experience, including at least 3 years at management level.
• Extensive knowledge of senior-level democracy issues (civil society support, women and youth, electoral reform, media and freedom of expression).
• Experience in development work with national and local institutions and media in transition countries, and in programme management.
• Excellent knowledge of OSCE and international principles on democratic governance and media standards.
• Proven ability to lead a team, preferably in a multi-cultural environment, and negotiation and diplomatic skills.
• Fluent English, oral and written, and computer literacy with Microsoft applications.
• Desirable: familiarity with South-Eastern Europe, especially Albania, and international field mission experience.

Applicants must be nominated by their participating State, apply through the OSCE online application form, and obtain medical clearance. The maximum period of service in this post or the same mission is seven years.