Program Officer - Latin America at International Republican Institute

Location: Washington, DC
Last Date: September 5, 2010

Position: Program Officer - Latin America
Organization: International Republican Institute
Location: Washington, DC

JOB SUMMARY
A nonprofit, nonpartisan organization, the International Republican Institute (IRI) advances freedom and democracy worldwide by developing political parties, civic institutions, open elections, good governance and the rule of law. IRI has conducted programs in more than 100 counties and is currently active in 65 countries.

The Latin America and Caribbean Division is currently recruiting for a Program Officer (PO) for one or more programs in Latin America. The PO is responsible for designing and implementing a strategy for IRI's program in their country of assignment. S/he develops long range and annual plans for the country program, identifies key players and partners in IRI programs, develops strategies for programs on political party capacity-building, good governance programs, and increasing the representation of marginalized groups in the political process.

The Program Officer closely monitors political and economic developments in the country and develops and maintains the relationship between IRI and country partners and grantees. The PO executes programs, including election observation missions, conferences, training seminars and other program activities in the country.

The PO is responsible for developing and meeting country program fundraising goals, including preparing grant proposals, budgets, quarterly reports and evaluations. The PO is responsible for managing projects to ensure that reporting requirements are met, that IRI projects comply with all donor agency regulations, that projects remain within budget allocations and that grantees comply with grant requirements.

The Program Officer conducts research related to project proposals and conferences and represents IRI at various public functions in Washington. The Program Officer oversees the workload of team members in Washington.

REQUIREMENTS
1. Undergraduate degree in political science, international relations or related field and 3-5 years' professional experience in democratic governance and politics, preferably working directly with legislative bodies or political parties, or equivalent combination.
2. Excellent written and oral communications and presentation skills in English and Spanish required.
3. Ability to work independently and as a member of a team to coordinate and lead the efforts of other professionals to effectively meet program needs.
4. Demonstrated financial management experience in developing and administering program budgets.
5. Demonstrated international experience and familiarity with international political systems and legislative bodies preferred
6. Experience identifying and analyzing complex problems and developing creative solutions.
7. Experience with NGO management desirable.
8. Experience working with USG funded projects and familiarity with USG regulations and processes preferred.
9. Ability to work well under pressure and to multi-task efficiently.
10. Willingness to travel.
11. Willingness to live and work in a challenging political environment.
12. Working knowledge of political community and culture of Latin America preferred.


Apply to this position online at:
http://www.iri.org/join-support/work-us