Policy and Advocacy Officer (Social Policy – Poverty and Structural Funds)

The main work will be developed in Brussels, but travels to other countries will be part of the work. The Advocacy Officer, part of the Advocacy Unit, reports to the Head of Unit.

Profile:

• University Degree (bachelor or higher)
• Postgraduate degree in the field of social policy, EU studies or similar is an asset
• At least 5 years of relevant working experience, preferably in Caritas organisations and in the field of social policy.
• Work experience in other social NGOs and EU environment is an asset.
• Experience on policy and advocacy in the area of poverty and social affairs and or Structural Funds at national and European level.
• Working experience related to and good understanding of the EU Institutions, decision-making in policies, European networks.
• Excellent English speaking and writing skills. Good command of French and/or German, as well as other European languages is an asset.
• Understanding of and commitment to the principles of the Social Teaching of the Catholic Church, in which Caritas’ work is firmly rooted.
• Experience in Church organisations is an asset.
• Skills in presentation, facilitation and networking.
• Ability to work in an international team.
• Computer skills and experience in working with Microsoft Office software.

Our offer:
We offer a challenging experience in Brussels with the possibility to influence European policy and the development of the European Caritas network, working in an international team and in an organisation that is one of the key European stakeholders in fighting poverty and social exclusion. The salary range is between 2.800 € and 3.400 € monthly gross salary depending on the demonstrated experience; daily meal checks and an additional insurance are part of the offer we make.

Please submit following documents:

• Motivation letter (max 1 page)
• CV (max 2 pages)
• A position paper (max 2 pages) about a concrete issue of your choice on one of following themes:
  - The European Platform against Poverty and Social Exclusion
  - The Reform of the Structural Funds 2014-2020
  by 5 February 2012 24:00 Brussels time to secretary-general@caritas-europa.org mentioning in the subject “CV Advocacy Officer – Poverty and Structural Funds”.

We thank in advance all candidates who show their interest in this offer. First interviews shall be held around the third week of February 2012.