Senior Peacebuilding Advisor

May 24, 2014 | Mercy Corps

Mercy Corps works in countries in transition, where communities are recovering from disaster, conflict, or economic collapse. Our experience demonstrates that even during times of turmoil and tragedy, there are many possibilities for positive change. A commitment to peaceful change is at the heart of Mercy Corps’ approach to relief and development.  Mercy Corps’ Youth and Conflict Management (Y-CM) team is dedicated to helping our field teams and country programs design and implement programs that help to reduce violence, build peace, and constructively engage young people throughout these times of transition. 

GENERAL POSITION SUMMARY:

The Senior Peacebuilding Advisor will work closely with the Director of the Youth & Conflict Management Team in the implementation of the Y-CM strategy with an emphasis on enhancing and deepening the agency’s experience and capabilities in working in and on conflict. This position will be responsible for building Mercy Corps’ conflict portfolio through program design, improving program quality and measurement, and cultivating and nurturing donor and peer relationships and partnerships. The Senior Peacebuilding Advisor will provide support to the team and provide coordinated support to country teams. There is a strong emphasis in this position on: thought leadership in understanding the drivers of conflict, peacebuilding; measurement of efforts, and representation of Mercy Corps approach to a broad range of partners and donors.

SUCCESS FACTORS:

The successful Senior Peacebuilding Advisor will combine exceptional program design, program quality, and representation skills with a focus on conflict management and negotiation. Experience in maintaining relationships with the US Government, NGOs, for-profit firms and private donors with strong creative and entrepreneurial skills to lead and support new opportunities, partnerships and the scaling up of proven interventions is critical. Effective verbal and written communication, facilitation, participatory leadership and solid management skills are essential. In addition to these qualifications, we are seeking someone with a great attitude who is flexible, outgoing and thrives in evolving and changing environments. The most successful Mercy Corps staff members have a strong commitment to teamwork and accountability.

LIVING /ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS:

This position will be based in Portland, Washington DC and requires up to 40% travel to overseas program locations and headquarters offices.