Head of Central Europe Programme

We’re launching a new programme to support and empower media and civil society in Central Europe (initially Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovenia). We need someone with the drive and vision to grow our work in this region from an initial media support programme to a broad array of opportunities for media, civil society and watchdogs. This will be a rewarding role that will allow you to lead and shape the Centre’s new programming to counter democratic backsliding in the region.

Why we’re expanding in Central Europe

Populist leaders have emerged in the region who are eroding the rule of law and undermining democratic institutions. These forces are bolstered by the proliferation of disinformation and a lack of adequate checks to creeping authoritarian forces. The independent media outlets and watchdog organisations working to expose the drivers of authoritarianism and hold them to account are increasingly under attack. This has in turn increased the risk of foreign malign influence from the likes of Russia and China.  With our support, independent media and civil society will be able to continue pushing back against these anti-democratic tendencies—on new platforms, in new formats and for growing audiences. Networks of active citizens will have the tools they need to advance a shared aspiration for more accountable, free and fair societies.

In this position you will:

• Recruit and grow the Central Europe team

• Manage the programme’s annual budget and operating plan

• Map the broader needs of media, civil society and activists in the region and help identify challenges and opportunities with respect to anti-corruption work, tracking sanctions evasion and countering malign foreign influence

• Deliver agreed results for the initial media support programme and lead the development of a wider offer of mentoring, grants and learning opportunities for media and civil society

• Develop an ambitious, broader strategy for the programme

• Lead fundraising for future growth

• Develop partnerships with relevant stakeholders in the region and within the EU

Requirements:

• At least 5 years of work experience in either civil society, think tanks and /or media and civil society support organisations, with at least 2 years in a management position. Experience working in more than one European country is desirable.

• A deep understanding of one or more countries in Central Europe, in particular the political context and the media sector

• Working proficiency in English and knowledge of at least one Central European language is a must

• Eligibility to work in the Czech Republic and readiness work from Prague

• Experience in the media sector is a strong asset

Interested candidates should fill out the application form by December 11, 2022. Please understand that we will not be able to accept incomplete applications and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.

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