Independent Diplomat (ID) is a unique non‐profit venture in the world of international relations, diplomacy and conflict prevention. Staffed by former diplomats, international lawyers and experts in international relations, ID offers independent and confidential advice and assistance on diplomatic technique and strategy to governments, political groups, international institutions, and non‐governmental organizations.

ID’s staff are at the forefront of some of the world’s most urgent international crises and foreign policy challenges.  We are engaged in conflict resolution in some of the most pressing crisis zones, for example: Yemen, Mali, and Myanmar.  Our staff are tackling major shared global threats: such as climate change and internet freedom.  And we are seeking to make the system of diplomacy fairer through our effort to improve the working methods of the UN Security Council, ensure meaningful inclusion of women in peace processes, and assist refugees to lead global refugee policy development.

Our staff work day-to-day with the groups and governments with whom we partner, providing advice, negotiating support and strategy. ID currently has a presence in New York, London, Brussels, Washington D.C. and Geneva.

Job Purpose

Independent Diplomat is recruiting for a Policy Officer (step 2) in one of its global offices or based remotely in the MENA region. Preference will be given to candidates in London and the MENA region, but ID’s other office locations in New York, Washington DC, and Geneva will also be considered. The individual will be joining ID at an important and exciting moment for the organisation as we advise partners on some of the most high-profile issues on the diplomatic stage, and in parallel seek to grow the organisation to ensure sustainable impact on global priorities.

We are expanding our team focused on our work primarily in the MENA region and offer the opportunity for a successful candidate to lead and drive important policy outcomes across our full range of projects.

ID is placing particular emphasis on individuals with direct experience working on international policy formulation and implementation, combined with multilateral diplomatic and negotiation expertise. Current or former officials from government or intergovernmental backgrounds, foreign ministries, and/or diplomatic missions in capitals and in multilateral centres are encouraged to apply, including Locally Engaged staff. Further priority is placed on fluent Arabic language skills.  Experience in communications or a proven track record in funding decisions will be an added advantage with core international/diplomatic skills and experience.

Role Description

Policy delivery. Policy Officers at ID are responsible for formulating and delivering political advice and support to Independent Diplomat’s partners/beneficiaries. This includes advice on international engagement and strategy, advice on negotiation strategies and tactical guidance during internationally-led peace processes, how to use diplomacy to achieve foreign policy goals, and guidance through the full range of diplomatic tools required to meet short/mid-term milestones and longer-term objectives.

Relationship management. The ID ethos centres on being led by the partners/beneficiaries which we advise. This requires building strong relationships and trust. Policy Officers will be at the forefront of this effort, ensuring high confidence and strong reputation of ID, including engaging on complex policy formulation with partners working in some of the most challenging issues on the global stage.

Public diplomacy. Policy Officers will be responsible for coordinating this complementary work in tandem with the political advice and strategic support they provide. This includes engaging with international, regional and local media contacts, as well as advising partners on their media messaging and social media strategy to maximise impact.

External communications and Network Building. Policy Officers will be responsible for direct engagement on behalf of ID and our partners with governments, multilateral institutions, NGOs and civil society. This outward facing communication is a critical aspect of the diplomatic support we provide to our partners. Policy Officers are entrusted to lead engagement with autonomy and limited oversight, and must feel confident engaging with and expanding a wide range of relevant networks.

Fundraising. All staff at Independent Diplomat are responsible for representing the organisation and collectively raising the funds required to sustain our work advising some of the most marginalised communities on the diplomatic stage. Policy Officers will play an important role in this effort as the best advocates for the projects they work on and Independent Diplomat’s mission more broadly, including by developing funding/project proposals as necessary.

Diplomatic Professionalism. Policy Officers will have an important role internally within ID to support the upskilling and sharing of best practices and techniques, bringing with them fresh perspectives and ideas as the organisation develops and grows in response to global challenges and opportunities on the international stage.

Skills and Experience

• University degree in international relations, economics, international law, human rights, or a related field
• 5-10 years of direct experience working in government, foreign affairs or multilateral institutions. This includes those with previous working experience in diplomatic missions (either as Diplomatic Staff or Locally Engaged). Those with fewer years of direct experience (3-5 years) may apply if they can demonstrate wider relevant experience for the role
• Proven track record of delivering international policy outcomes
• Existing knowledge or experience working on conflict resolution and peace building would be a key advantage, including understanding or experience working on high profile geographic issues or ongoing conflicts/crises such as Yemen
• Thematic expertise in the following areas: conflict resolution and post-conflict transition, negotiation and political processes
• Comprehensive understanding of international affairs and the workings of the UN, particularly the UN Security Council and the UN Agencies would be an advantage
• Excellent writing and communication skills
• Fluency in English. Additional practical language skills are desirable, with an emphasis on those who can speak Arabic
• Existing contacts and networks across governments, multilateral institutions and media
• Excellent analytical, critical thinking, and communications skills; ability to analyse issues, diagnose problems, and propose effective solutions
• Demonstrated ability to successfully work in a fast-paced, multi-cultural environment, within and across departments/functions and develop positive relationships within diplomatic networks
• Self-directed, able to independently set priorities and solve problems with minimal guidance; comfortable working for a supervisor who is remotely located
• Articulate, outgoing and experienced in working in multi-cultural environments
• Technologically savvy with a solid command of digital communications
• High energy, creativity, a sense of humour, cultural sensitivity and social tact
• Commitment to Independent Diplomat’s mission.

Independent Diplomat is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of qualifications and merit.  Our objective is to encourage diversity and have the best available person in every job.  ID’s policy prohibits discrimination based on race, colour, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, sex (including pregnancy), religion, marital status, familial status, age, alienage or citizenship status, national origin, ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristics, sexual orientation, military status, domestic violence victim status or any other unlawful consideration.