IFES BANGLADESH - Terms of Reference

IFES is an international, nonprofit organization that supports the building of democratic societies. IFES promotes democratic stability by providing technical assistance and applying field-based research to the electoral cycle in countries around the world to enhance citizen participation and strengthen civil societies, governance and transparency. Founded in 1987 as a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization, IFES has developed and implemented comprehensive, collaborative democracy solutions in more than 135 countries.

Position Title: Program Officer – Advocacy and Empowerment

Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Design and implement projects and program activities that focus on ways to increase engagement and empowerment of women, youth and other marginalized populations in the electoral and political process;
  • Liaise with electoral stakeholders (including civil society, academia, media, and election commission staff, among others) to build relationships and support ongoing activities;
  • Lead the IFES’ Women’s Working Group and associated activities;
  • Assist with the planning, administration and logistics for special events and program activities, e.g. campaigns, workshops, trainings, Working Group meetings and other events;
  • Draft language for inclusion in bi-monthly and quarterly reports regarding IFES’ inclusion and empowerment activities;
  • Write reports of all activities;
  • Undertake field visits as needed; and,
  • Other duties as assigned.

Requirements: 

  • Bachelor’s degree with a focus on Political Science/Peace and Conflict Studies/International Relations or equivalent; master’s degree preferred.
  • A minimum of 5 years of experience working at a civil society and/or international organization with demonstrated project management experience.
  • Demonstrated understanding of inclusive democratic governance in Bangladesh, especially related to cross-cutting themes of gender, disability, indigenous and minority issues.
  • Established relationships with civil society actors and other electoral stakeholders.
  • Fluency in English and Bengali, both written and oral.
  • A high level of self-motivation and ability to work autonomously within a fast-paced environment.
  • Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills.
  • Computer literacy.
  • Women and minorities are encouraged to apply.

Application Instructions:

All applicants are asked to please respond to the three questions below in lieu of a cover letter. All responses must fit on one page (A4).

  • Please explain your interest in this position and your career goals.
  • Please explain how your qualifications make you a suitable candidate for this position.
  • Please describe the steps you would take to engage women in the political process in Bangladesh.   

Interested candidates may send their application (one page with responses to the three questions and resume) in English to: bangladesh@ifes.org by February 7, 2016.

Applicants that do not submit a complete package will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. No phone inquiries please. Please place the position title ADV-01 in the subject line of your e-mail.