Resource Rights Specialist

In hopes of increasing the impact of its work and that of its partner organizations working in the areas of land and water rights, Grassroots International is launching a three-year, Resource Rights for All Initiative. It will facilitate action research, capacity building and joint advocacy activities by program participants. The initiative also contemplates educational and other communications work targeting key US constituencies.

To lead this unique and challenging initiative, Grassroots International seeks a specialist in the field of resource rights. The Resource Rights Specialist will act as primary U.S. reference and spokesperson for Resource Rights for All, will develop, implement and coordinate the advocacy and action research components of the initiative and will provide resource rights related content for all public education and communications work.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing leadership to the conceptualization and implementation of a complex multi-year initiative involving partners and allies working in widely differing contexts;
• Facilitation of the participation of key GRI partner organizations in the initiative;
• Work with other program participants in the creation of shared advocacy agendas and in undertaking action research in support of that advocacy work;
• Playing a leadership role in joint advocacy activities and other network activities to the initiative;
• Supporting partner organizations in the development and realization of capacity building goals, especially in the area of advocacy
• Gathering information and producing analytical materials to inform public education efforts focused on land and water rights;
• Acting as the primary liaison between the initiative and other GRI headquarters staff and consultants.

The position will be based at our Boston office, but will involve substantial travel to the areas in which GRI supports resource rights work. Grassroots International is an independent human rights and development agency. We promote global justice through partnerships with social change organizations. We work to advance political, economic and social rights and support development alternatives through grantmaking education and advocacy. We currently support development, human rights, and disaster relief work in Brazil, Eritrea, Haiti, Mexico and Palestine.

Qualifications:

• In-depth knowledge of and experience with key international Resource Rights organizations, networks, and advocacy strategies; particularly for land and water rights;
• Political perspective consistent with GRI’s mission and programs;
• Overseas experience in either Latin America or the Middle East preferred;
• Experience in conceptualization and implementation of partcipatory action research projects;
• Working familiarity with international advocacy networks and advocacy initiatives in the areas of land and water rights;
• Strong spokesperson with good oral and written communication skills, including public speaking;
• Well organized, with experience managing complex projects involving diverse participants;
• Good computer skills, and high comfort level with electronic and other advanced communications technologies;
• Strong interpersonal skills;
• Ability to travel overseas, often for extended periods;
• Fluent Spanish required and knowledge of Portuguese or Haitian Kreyol preferred Duration:

This is a grant-supported position of fixed duration of 2-3 years.

Compensation: Salary negotiable, depending on experience. Excellent benefits package includes: full health, dental and retirement benefits as well as paid vacation.

To Apply: Send resume and cover letter detailing relevant experience to:
Resource Rights Coordinator Search
Committee Grassroots International
179 Boylston St., 4th.floor
Boston, MA 02130-4520

Grassroots International is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity employer. Women and people of color are strongly encouraged to apply.