We Are Looking for an Executive Director

Executive Director Job Description

Background
The Stichting Female Journalists Network (SFJN) is a nonprofit association, registered in The Netherlands since 2013. It seeks to build bridges between media and the Syrian women’s movement by enhancing and empowering both men and women working in the field of media, by empowering women journalists to take over leading positions in their institutions, and by activating the role of the media in raising social awareness concerning gender equality and women’s issues. The SFJN also works on improving the representation of women in the media to achieve a Syrian society that is fair to all of its men and women citizens, and to realize a positive social change in thinking and behavior with respect to matters surrounding gender justice and equality.  For more info: www.sfjn.org 

About the Executive Director position

Executive Director is responsible for overseeing the administration, programs and strategic plan of the organization. The position reports directly to the Board of Directors.

This is a leadership position requiring an experienced senior level professional. It is full-time,  to be based in the Netherlands. The women candidates will get the priority.

The new Executive Director will work under the supervision of the current Executive Director for three months.

Role Description

Strategic Management and Leadership

  • The Executive Director will be responsible for drawing the strategic directions of SFJN and implementing all administrative/program strategies within the required time frame and regulations.
  • Manage the organization’s strategic plan, budget and fundraising strategy.
  • Create a supportive environment that fosters personal responsibility and commitment to SFJN goals and values.
  •  Identify best practices and improve internal systems with an eye towards future needs.

Operational Management

  • Responsible for the overall operations of  SFJN in the Netherlands and remotely.
  • Prepare program goals and objectives, approve annual budgets, evaluate progress. and effectiveness of all staff. Provide support to all its members to achieve all project deliverables. 
  • Oversee the financial management and be responsible for ensuring quality and integrity of the systems and policies. Ensure adherence to policies and statutory compliance.
  • Oversee management of contracts, procurement, and operations.
  • Oversee human resource management at  SFJN.
  • Responsible for the hiring and retention of competent, qualified staff.
  • Responsible for signing all agreements, reports and other instruments made and entered into and on behalf of SFJN.
  • Ensure efficient and functioning operation systems.
  • Foster interdepartmental linkages, communication and synergies within SFJN.
  • Implement and foster adherence to the established  SFJN policies, regulations, guidelines and procedures and strengthen feminist governance.
  • Contribute effectively to the overall strategic visioning, conceptual development, planning and monitoring of  SFJNs’ work.

 

Internal and External Relations

  • Responsible for communicating effectively with the Board and providing, in a timely and accurate manner, all information necessary for the Board to function properly and to make informed decisions.
  • Demonstrate effective, value-driven leadership to all SFJN staff.
  • Foster a conducive environment that is transparent, accountable and supportive.
  • Manage donor relations in collaboration with the General Program Manager.
  • Building and maintaining strong relationships with key journalists/ media organizations on national and international levels.
  • Networking and building good relations with potential local and regional partners and donors.
  • Represent the foundation on an international level.

Qualifications

  • Master’s degree in Media/Gender/Humanitarian Studies/ Management desirable.
  • At least 10 years work experience with at least 5 years senior nonprofit management experience. Experience in Syria is a must. We will not proceed with your application if this criterion is not met.

Competencies

  • Transparency and high integrity feminist leadership.
  • Enthusiasm and willingness to champion SFJNs’ values.
  • Strong analytical and conceptual skills with the ability to see both the big picture as well as micro issues.
  • High level strategic thinking and planning. Ability to envision and convey the organization’s strategic future to the staff, board, volunteers and donors.
  • Ability to effectively communicate the organization’s mission to donors, volunteers and the overall community.
  • Solid organizational abilities, including planning, delegating, program development and task facilitation.
  • Active fundraising experience. Excellent donor relations skills and understanding of the funding community.
  • A history of successfully generating new revenue streams and improving financial results.
  • Demonstrated ability to oversee and collaborate with staff.
  • Experience and skill in working with a Board of Directors.
  • Strong written and oral communication skills both in English and Arabic.
  • Strong public speaking ability.

 

Application Process

Please send your application to the following email address: jobs@sfjn.org with the subject line ‘Executive Director’ by July 31, 2020 with the following:

  1. A thoughtful cover letter that includes why you are interested in this position at this point in your career
  2. CV
  3. A one-page statement on how you will maintain a positive, feminist, values-based organizational culture.

 

Incomplete applications will not be considered. Please review qualifications and competencies carefully; unqualified candidates will not be shortlisted.

Please note:

  • Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by August 15, 2020.
  • Position will remain open until filled. If advert remains on our website past July 31st 2020 you are welcome to apply at that time (no repeat submissions please). If you do not hear from us within two weeks of your submission, please consider your application unsuccessful on this occasion.