Projects Director - Africa

Inter Mediate is one of the world’s leading independent peacemaking organisations. Operating out of London, we work in conflict zones around the world to support peace negotiations and advise on strategies to stop and prevent wars. This is an exciting opportunity to join our small, expert projects team as a Projects Director, with a special focus on conflicts in Africa.  

Key responsibilities

The Projects Director reports to the Senior Conflict Advisor and is responsible for:  

• Developing and sustaining relationships with parties to negotiations and/or key actors, both directly and remotely; 
• Preparing and supporting the Senior Conflict Advisor and other senior colleagues in relevant negotiations and, as appropriate, leading negotiation sessions and providing advice;  
• Preparing fully costed project proposals, in conjunction with Projects and Finance and Operations staff and consultant experts; 
• Developing, managing and delivering existing Inter Mediate projects;

Specific Responsibilities 

• Developing, managing and delivering existing Inter Mediate conflict resolution and dialogue projects, with a geographic focus on Africa and a thematic focus on conflicts in the wider Muslim world;
• Developing and sustaining relationships with parties to negotiations and/or key actors, both directly and remotely, travelling frequently to project locations; 
• Supporting external consultants and negotiators in the field and at home;  
• Leading research necessary to deliver projects
• Preparing and supporting the Projects Team and Executive Director in relevant negotiations and, as appropriate, supporting negotiation sessions and providing advice;  
• Ensuring the appropriate allocation of project finances, producing project reports in line with donor requirements, and managing relationships with key project donors;
• Scoping opportunities for Inter Mediate to develop new projects, based on sound analysis of the context and of Inter Mediate’s unique ability to contribute;
• Updating donors on relevant projects, and maintaining and developing the relationship with the donors working with the Operations team; 
• Preparation of fully costed project proposals and project reports;
• Compiling project progress reports for senior management/trustees’ meetings; 
• Representation of Inter Mediate in external forums where appropriate. 

Experience, skills and qualifications

Successful candidates will need to demonstrate:

-  A masters degree in politics, conflict resolution and peacebuilding, international affairs, public policy or an equivalent subject. Relevant work experience (with a preferred focus on Africa) may be accepted in lieu;

- 7-10 years of work experience in conflict resolution or peace process support for a governmental, non-governmental or inter-governmental organisation, or an equivalent field such as diplomacy, humanitarian access, political risk advisory services, conflict journalism or conflict analysis;

- Deep expertise in the dynamics and stakeholders shaping African politics and conflicts, including with non-state armed groups;

- Excellent written English, and evidence of ability to produce high-quality written work to deadline;

- A strong general understanding of political and conflict dynamics and the ability to produce well-structured and concise analysis;

- Ability to operate successfully in high pressure, sensitive political environments and provide support to high-level leaders;

- Evidence of strong cross-cultural interpersonal skills including managing a range of stakeholders;

- Flexibility and adaptability to support the smooth running of a small team, and willingness to take an “all-hands-on-deck” approach when required;

- French fluency is highly desirable and will be an advantage for candidates

Inter Mediate particularly welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds

Working at Inter Mediate

A normal working week consists of 35 hours. Our office operates between 8am and 6.30pm with core hours from 9.00am to 5.00pm. Inter Mediate operates a hybrid working model, with at least 2 set days per week in the office in London.

Benefits include: 25 days holiday, pension contribution and private health insurance (following successful completion of the 6-month probationary period).

IM is unable to currently sponsor working visas. All applicants must have the right of employment within the UK.