Senior Human Rights Advisor

The Regional Rights Resource Team (RRRT) of the Pacific Community (SPC) was established in 1995 and has been a pioneer in providing human rights capacity-building, research, policy, legal and technical assistance in the Pacific region. RRRT’s mission is to advance human rights and good governance standards for the sustainable and equitable development of the region and the benefit of all Pacific peoples.

The role – The position of Senior Human Rights Advisor has the following major responsibilities:

• Capacity building – Develop training objectives and programmes based on partner needs and RRRT’s strategic objectives; plan training/mentoring/coaching programs to meet objectives; apply appropriate adult learning and capacity building principles and methodologies; deliver capacity building on thematic focal areas and key RRRT priorities including gender, disability, children, good governance, regional and/or national human rights mechanisms and institutions; conduct research on key regional human rights priorities including climate change, disability, LGBTQI rights, culture and human rights as required.
  
  
• Supervision, mentoring and support for Country Focal Officers (CFO) – Supervise performance through the provision of advice, mentoring and support for the design and delivery of national human rights strategies and training programmes and other activities; work in partnership with CFO and supervisors to develop work and M&E plans and budgets; mentor and support CFO, including developing capacity in human rights, advocacy and lobbying.
  
  
• Provision of technical advice – Provide advice and technical assistance on human rights, gender and good governance in line with SPC RRRT goals and mission; assist RRRT partner countries with ratification, reporting, and domestication of human rights treaties; provide technical advice on human rights legislation, policy and UN treaty body and UPR recommendations.
  
  
• Networking and partnerships – Represent RRRT effectively at national, regional and international forums; share information on thematic areas and country human rights situations with key stakeholders; and establish, strengthen and support partnerships that advance RRRT objectives at all levels.
  
  
• Monitoring and evaluation – Assume responsibility for assigned project areas including management, financial and donor reporting; ensure project narrative and financial reports are of high quality; ensure effective implementation of assigned project policies and clear links to the RRRT strategic plan; contribute to RRRT donor reports and key thematic area plans and reports; contribute to the design and implementation of effective MEL systems for projects.
  
  
• Programme management cycle – Seek future funding opportunities for RRRT with potential donors; contribute to the design and planning of new programmes and the development of funding proposals; ensure effective implementation of programme as per donors’ contract and compliance rules.

 

For a more detailed account of the key result areas, please refer to the Job Description provided here.

 

Key selection criteria

Qualifications

A postgraduate qualification in law, development studies, or international relations, or relevant postgraduate qualification in social science from a recognised university, or equivalent years of experience working in a social development NGO, INGO or government setting. 

Technical expertise

At least 5‒7 years’ experience working as a trainer or technical adviser at a senior advisory level, with a focus on human rights. Experience in designing training and capacity building programmes and material in human rights and gender. A firm understanding of national, regional and international human rights principles, standards, mechanisms and instruments. Demonstrated experience in liaising with donors, government and civil society.  Experience in, and understanding of human rights, good governance and development challenges in the Pacific Islands region.  A proven record of accomplishment in donor liaison, proposal writing and reporting.  An understanding and knowledge of Pacific cultural values. Experience in advocacy and lobbying for social change.  Strategic planning experience.

Essential skills

Excellent skills in written and oral English.  Strong people management skills, with the ability to mentor teams and build capacity.

Language skills

Proficiency in English, with a working knowledge of French being an advantage.

Interpersonal skills and cultural awareness

Good interpersonal skills; a team player with the ability to network and work effectively in a multicultural setting. Cultural sensitivity and a demonstrated understanding of developing country environments, with knowledge of Pacific Island countries and territories being an advantage.

 

Salary, terms and conditions

Required start date – This position is immediately available.

Contract duration – This position is budgeted for until 30th June 2020.

Remuneration – The Senior Human Rights Advisor is a Band 11 position within SPC’s 2017 salary scale, with a starting salary range of SDR (special drawing rights) 2,884–3,605 per month, which currently converts to approximately FJD 8,480–10,599 (USD 4,009–5,011; EUR 3,647–4,558).  An offer of appointment for an initial contract will normally be made in the lower half of this range, with due consideration being given to experience and qualifications. Progression within the salary scale will be based on annual performance reviews. Remuneration of expatriate SPC staff members is not subject to income tax in Fiji; however, Fiji nationals employed by SPC in Fiji will be subject to income tax.

Languages – SPC’s working languages are English and French.

 

Application procedure

Applicants must apply online. Hard copies of applications will not be accepted.

For your application to be considered, you are required to provide us with:

• an updated resume;
• contact details for three professional referees;
• a cover letter detailing your skills, experience and interest in this position; and
• responses to all screening questions.

Please ensure your documents are in Microsoft Word or Adobe PDF format.