http://cvt.simplicant.com/job/detail/8782-director-of-washington-office
Director of Washington Office
Location: Washington, DC | Department: Public Policy
To Apply: Submit resume, cover letter and salary expectations by May 21, 2012
The Director of the Washington Office develops and implements the organization's advocacy strategy in Washington with a primary focus on obtaining federal financial support for torture survivor rehabilitation centers in the US and abroad and addressing issues related to the use of torture and cruelty post-9/11 by the US. The position is based in DC and reports to the Director of Policy & Development.
Organization:
The Center for Victims of Torture works toward a future in which torture ceases to exist and its victims have hope for a new life. We are an international nonprofit dedicated to healing survivors of torture. We provide direct care for those who have been tortured, train partners around the world who can prevent and treat torture, and advocate for human rights and an end to torture. We are headquartered in Minnesota with offices in Africa, the Middle East and Washington DC.
Responsibilities:
Develop advocacy strategy for Washington DC-based priorities. Engage CVT leaders and managers in policy strategies. Facilitate meetings of the CVT Public Policy team.
Secure support for Torture Victims Relief Act authorization and annual appropriations processes and other legislation affecting refugees and asylum seekers.
Inform Congress and the Administration (State Dept., USAID, Office of Refugee Resettlement, National Security Council) about the humanitarian and strategic value of supporting rehabilitation centers for torture survivors in the US and abroad.
Advocate for humane policies on US interrogation and detention issues in front of Congress, Dept of Defense, CIA and the National Security Council. Promote accountability for torture and cruelty committed by US personnel post-9/11.
Participate in formal and informal NGO coalitions, including Refugee Council USA, to advance policy positions.
Serve as an advisor on public policy to other torture survivor rehabilitation organizations within the US. Engage rehabilitation organizations in public policy and advocacy initiatives.
Qualifications:
Bachelors in Political Science or related field and 5 years of experience as a lobbyist, with a background in human rights or refugee rights highly desirable.
Superior interpersonal and verbal communication skills and demonstrated ability to communicate effectively with individuals at all levels and across the political spectrum.
Demonstrated success in managing relationships across branches of governement and between sectors.
Strong writing skills.
Excellent public speaking and presentation skills.
Ability to work autonomously and take appropriate initiative in a work location remote from headquarters.
Experience interacting with foundations or individual donors desirable.
Computer skills, including experience with MS Office software, email and internet.
Commitment to and interest in human rights.
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This material is cross-posted from the Peace and Collaborative Development Network, http://internationalpeaceandconflict.org
