Program Officer

The Arab Human Rights Fund (AHRF) is a not-for-profit philanthropic organization that supports the promotion and realization of human rights through grants to human rights organizations in the Arab region.  Governed by a diverse Board of Directors composed of respected members from the region’s human rights, philanthropic and civil society communities, the Fund is independent of any governmental, political, religious or other interests and is committed to operating with transparency and accountability. 
AHRF works directly and consults widely and regularly with human rights defenders throughout the region to identify appropriate and promising strategies for human rights promotion in accordance with the needs of the region.  By virtue of its trans-regional orientation, the Fund is uniquely positioned to link the region’s human rights community with global rights and legal networks as well as philanthropic resources. 
The Fund also works to cultivate domestic funding for human rights, promote the concept of social justice philanthropy within the Arab region, and build productive relationships between human rights practitioners and colleagues in the development, media and social service arenas.  In these and other ways AHRF hopes to expand and enhance the support available for human rights activities in the Arab region.  For more information about the Fund, visit www.ahrfund.org.
The Fund seeks a Program Officer with experience in supporting human rights work in the Arab region to join the Fund’s grantmaking program.  The ideal candidate would work full-time with the Fund at its headquarters in Beirut, Lebanon.  (Please note: A candidate based in Beirut who is not Lebanese must have a valid work permit in Lebanon. The Fund will not cover relocation costs.)
Expected starting date: As soon as possible. 
RESPONSIBILITIES
 Grantmaking

Design grantmaking programs (focus, objectives, priorities, criteria, etc.) in coordination with the Executive Director.
Respond to substantive queries from grantseekers; review initial concept notes; provide guidance during application process, including drafting of proper application and project design; evaluate applications and perform due diligence.
Prepare list of recommendations for Grantmaking Committee in coordination with Executive Director.
Draft materials in preparation for Board presentation (including grant description, regional human rights context, program overview, and program goals). Present and defend recommendations to Board at Board meeting.
Supervise creation of grant agreements and annexes.
Follow-up with grantees with regard to project progress, challenges, needs, etc. Conduct field visits to carry out assessment and provide guidance and technical support. Review interim and final narrative reports. Remain aware of grantees’ work and informational materials, both printed and electronic.
Visit grant-seekers and human rights organizations for networking, exploration, and outreach purposes.
Explore and implement technological and programmatic tools to enhance the work and security of grantees.
Coordinate research of human rights developments and organizations in the region as relates to grantmaking goals.
Oversee updating of program database.

Communication & Outreach

Coordinate drafting of program materials for the Fund’s communication and development purposes.
Attend local, regional, and international human rights events and meetings.
Maintain contact with other human rights organizations and funders operating in the region; explore partnerships and share ideas.
Meet with potential applicants.
Pursue outreach efforts, particularly in under-represented countries in the region.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCES

Three years of experience in grantmaking and/or related fields.
Civil society knowledge and experience in the Levant (Egypt, Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, Syria).
Ability to provide capacity building and technical assistance to grantseekers.
A commitment to human rights.
A Bachelor’s degree in the humanities, management, or related field.
Excellent judgment and ability to plan and accomplish goals.
Ability to juggle a variety of tasks, manage own workload, and work flexibly.
Ability to confidently promote the work of the Fund to potential applicants.
Creative thinking.
Good research skills.
Ability to communicate easily and appropriately with people at all levels within an organization.
Ability to work as part of a small team.
Native Arabic and excellent English and French skills (writing, reading, and correspondence).