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Policy and Research Director Action on Armed Violence London, United Kingdom

Action on Armed Violence (AOAV) continues to build on almost 20 years of outstanding contributions to international law and actions to improve the lives of those in countries heavily affected by violence. The organisation carries out expert research, advocacy and field programmes, all geared towards a single goal – reducing the incidence and impact of armed violence world-wide.

AOAV seeks to appoint a new Director of Policy and Research, who will provide leadership for the Policy and Research department. The post-holder will provide strategic direction and planning, and will take the lead in exploring new policy initiatives. Along with the CEO and other staff members, they will represent the organisation in relevant external assemblies, conferences and working groups, involving other stakeholders (governmental and non-governmental organisations, academics and the private sector) and states representatives. They will be expected to network widely, act as an advocate on significant policy issues, cultivate new donors, and take a key role in the submission of funding proposals. This is likely to involve extensive international travel. They will provide quality control in the development, publication and implementation of research projects. They will work closely with the Programmes department to ensure that Policy and Research both contributes to AOAV’s practical action on the ground, and benefits from it in terms of evidence gathering, monitoring and assessment. Internally, they will represent the interests of the Policy and Research department as a member of AOAV’s Senior Management Team, and will encourage the professional development of individual members of their department. The post-holder will be responsible for managing the Policy and Research department’s funding allocation, ensuring the optimum use of funds within budget.

This position requires someone with a dynamic and proactive personality, who can combine excellent research proficiency with first class leadership and representational skills. The ideal candidate will possess and/or demonstrate the following expertise and experience:

• Postgraduate university degree in a relevant subject (eg, Conflict Studies, International Development, International Human Rights Law);
• Excellent research skills in the fields of disarmament, armed violence, international law, human rights and/or peace-building;
• Management expertise, with experience in building and leading a team;
• Knowledge and experience of working in an NGO environment;
• Highly developed outreach, communication and presentation skills.
• Experience in fund raising;
• Experience in policy advocacy and programming.
• Ability to work well under pressure and meet deadlines;
• Flexibility to handle multiple streams of work and to take initiative where needed;
• Foreign language skills are desirable.

In terms of the ‘person fit’, the successful candidate is likely to be:

• A motivational leader, who is also a team player;
• An outgoing personality – confident in social environments;
• A visionary – capable of looking at the big picture and long-term impacts, and able to provide the necessary leadership to move forward in new areas;
• A strategist, capable of identifying and initiating new workstreams, whilst ensuring the sustainability of existing projects;
• Active, highly motivated and positive.

The post-holder will be based in London in the UK. Remuneration package includes a salary of £47,000 per annum, plus London weighting (£2,800). Applicants must have the legal right to work in the UK.

To apply, please e-mail your CV and covering letter addressing how you meet the requirements of the role to jobs@aoav.org.uk. The closing date for applications is Fri 17 August 2012; interviews will take place at the end of August 2012.

For more information about Action on Armed Violence please visit www.aoav.org.uk.