Program Officer

The Arab Human Rights Fund (AHRF) is a not-for-profit philanthropic organization that supports human rights organizations in the Arab region.  The Fund also works to cultivate domestic funding for human rights and promotes the concept of social justice philanthropy within 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.
 
Established in 2008, the Fund has supported human rights work in 20 Arab countries and is now poised to expand its efforts in response to the unprecedented opportunities to advance human rights inside the region.  A career with the Fund is a unique opportunity to support the realization of human rights for all peoples 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.)
 
RESPONSIBILITIES
 
Grantmaking

Design grantmaking programs (focus, objectives, priorities, criteria, etc.) in coordination with the GPM. Draft relevant materials (guidelines, applications, announcements, interim report, and final report forms)
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 GPM
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
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
In collaboration with the Program Assistant, keep track of the implementation and reporting statuses of the various projects and suggest corrective actions in case of delays or deviations
Contribute to the Fund’s program related reporting assignments to funders and donors.

 
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 Arab region.
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).

 
TO APPLY
 
Please submit:

A cover letter describing your human rights, civil society, and/or grantmaking experience in the Arab region, and what you would bring to the Fund
A CV
Your salary requirements
Contact information for three professional references.

 
The Fund regrets that it is unable to accept incomplete applications.
Send to: [email protected], with “Program Officer Position” in the subject heading.  
Deadline: Position is open until filled.
Target starting date: As soon as possible.