Program Manager, Natural Resources

May 7, 2017 | PAX
View Original

PAX is a Dutch peace and human rights organization. We take inspiration from our core value: solidarity with the victims of violence and with those working for peace. We mobilize moral and political support for peace initiatives in conflict areas. PAX joins with local and international partners we want to give a voice to the hope for peace. Through research, dialogue, lobby and advocacy we contribute to political solutions and support the international rule of law. Our dedicated 100+ staff are working in many of the world's theatres of conflict.

The PAX Programme on Natural Resources, Human Rights and Conflict is seeking a bright and creative interested in the role and responsibilities of business in society, and keen to promote that businesses support peace, not undermine it, and that they protect human rights, not benefit from abuses.

As a European NGO that is committed to global issues, we depend on our ability to connect international processes and mechanisms with local realities, to make high-level policies work out in practice, and to make the voices on the ground heard by global decision makers. We believe in constructive engagement with businesses and governments but do not shy away from campaigning if that is needed to defend the rights and interests of victims of violence and abuses.

We are looking for a keen negotiator to represent PAX. PAX is a party to the ICSR agreement on the “Dutch Banking Sector Agreement on international responsible business conduct regarding human rights”. The immediate task ahead here is to exchange with banks on several aspect of their human rights and to feed them with reliable and relevant data. This requires a deep understanding of the issues at stake and a vision on the roles and responsibilities of financial institutions. Negotiations for a similar agreement with the insurance sector and other sectors are on the way. As it will be crucial to work closely together with researchers and communities in difficult environments, having a network in the global South would be an asset.

We are looking for an expert on business, conflict and human rights who can guide our academic work on clarifying and enhancing the effectiveness of the UN Guiding Principles and the OECD Guidelines, and lead our efforts to convince businesses and governments that a soft approach to CSR is ineffective. As it will be crucial to work closely together with researchers and international NGOs, and a relevant network would be an asset.

Additional responsibilities include:

• Advice and support for our work in the Voluntary Principles on Security and Human Rights
• Development of innovative activities and projects that support the Programme’s mission
• Initiative and contribution to public campaigns
• Outreach to major/ potential donors

The ideal candidate will have seven or more years of experience working in comparable positions. Academic skills and an excellent command of the English language are required and so are outstanding editorial and writing ability. A good working level knowledge of French or Spanish is an advantage, and so is fluency in Dutch. A legal or economic background would be an asset. The applicant must have strong analytical and diplomatic skills, that show in her/his professional record, publications, and personal network. Experience with international lobby and advocacy is important. The job involves international travelling, sometimes to uncomfortable places.

Applicants must have a sound judgement and be full of initiative; they must be able to improvise and to be focussed; they must be outgoing, have a good sense of humour, and able to work under pressure. PAX is a flat organization. Our staff has program leaders have a lot of freedom to organize their work and advice and assist colleagues whenever that is needed.

What we offer

• A fascinating challenge, a cutting-edge task, a dynamic and highly international working environment
• Place of employment: Utrecht, The Netherlands
• Appointment for 36 hours per week (1,0 FTE), initially for one year, with prospects for extension
• Pay scale 10 according to PKN terms and conditions of employment; depending on
• experience min. € 2,305 – max. € 3,897 gross (for a fulltime position)
• 8.3% year-end bonus.

Procedure and information

For additional information you can contact Mr. Egbert Wesselink who is leading the Programme on Natural Resources, Conflict and Human Rights, through e-mail, wesselink@paxforpeace.nl, or by phone, +31 (0)30-2333346.

Interested candidates matching the profile and requirements are requested to send their CV and a motivation-letter in English addressed to Egbert Wesselink, only by using the application form on the bottom of this page.

Closing-date for reactions to this vacancy-announcement: May 22, 2017