The Head of EU Affairs is a senior advocate for analysis and policy recommendations at the European Union and coordinates Crisis Group’s interaction with EU officials and member states’ missions in Brussels. They are also responsible for maintaining and developing our engagement and visibility in the capitals of selected EU member states. They will follow developments at the EU, analyse the implication for the conflicts and crises we cover and help formulate EU-related policy recommendations. The Head of EU Affairs leads a small dedicated team and oversees the delivery of a major EU-funded project. They work closely with the Government & Multilateral Relations team to ensure coherence in Crisis Group’s ongoing relations with both the EU and its member states.

Responsibilities:

• Design and implement targeted advocacy plans aimed at building broad-based support for Crisis Group’s policy positions and recommendations in EU institutions, EU member states and with other relevant actors. This includes maximising the opportunity of advocacy visits to Brussels by field-based Crisis Group analysts and senior staff;

• Develop and maintain an advocacy network of key policy-makers in EU institutions, member states’ permanent missions and capitals, as well as the wider diplomatic community and NGOs in Brussels.

• As opportunities arise, pursue interest-based alliances with advocacy groups and NGO networks in Brussels in order to maximise the reach and potential impact of Crisis Group’s policy positions and recommendations;

• Undertake research and analysis of EU foreign and security policy developments; track and monitor EU programs and initiatives in countries where Crisis Group is active; and liaise and inform Crisis Group field staff as appropriate;

• Contribute to reports and other written pieces on the EU and conflict prevention and management, in consultation with the Chief of Advocacy and the Chief of Policy;

• Represent Crisis Group at meetings, conferences, and other events as required;

• Oversee the delivery of a major European Union project, making sure that all deliverables are met including ongoing project monitoring and timely technical and financial reporting;

• Manage a small team ensuring that their performance is effective and efficient, and occurs in a collaborative and positive context;

• Work closely with the Government & Multilateral Relations team, follow developments in EU financial instruments, and look for opportunities to further expand funding from EU sources.

Requirements include:

• Master’s degree in international relations or European Studies, or equivalent including by experience;

• At least 7 years relevant work experience in or with EU institutions, preferably with experience in advocacy aimed at influencing those institutions;

• Excellent knowledge and understanding of EU foreign policy and related institutions, as well as some of the conflicts and thematic areas that Crisis Group covers.

• Experience in project management including at a supervisory level;

• Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail, proactive and able to work under pressure to tight deadlines when required;

• Strong communication skills, both written and oral in English essential. Fluency in French and knowledge of other European languages highly desirable;

• Permission to work in the European Union area is essential.

Candidates should apply before 14 December 2022.