The Irish Refugee Council (IRC) are recruiting a Policy and Advocacy Officer (maternity cover)

The IRC are looking for a candidate with extensive and demonstrable knowledge of the international protection process and policy in Ireland and the EU. The candidate will also have a proven track-record of developing, designing and delivering successful policy and advocacy strategies, outcomes and impact. They will have excellent writing skills, initiative to work on their own and ability to prioritise under pressure and respond to day-to-day developments.

The IRC believes in a fair and inclusive society for all people seeking international protection in Ireland. The IRC believe that every person fleeing persecution has a legal right to claim asylum and to have their application considered in a fair, timely and transparent manner, in full accordance with the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and relevant Irish and EU law. The IRC promotes and protects the rights of people seeking protection and of those recognised as refugees in Ireland. We provide critical services and support, including the provision of accurate and timely information as well as essential legal support and advice. We also provide integration support around housing, education, employment, youth work and resettlement. The IRC also identifies critical trends and issues impacting their lives that require policy change and advocacy to ensure that Ireland strives to create a fairer, more sustainable and rights based system for the benefit of all.

Person Specification:

Essential:

• Relevant degree or equivalent qualifications/experience e.g., a recognised third level qualification in migration, social policy, social change or a related field.
• Excellent ability to communicate effectively in English, both verbally and in writing, and the ability to translate complex material and data into coherent and concise text.
• Strong understanding and knowledge of policy issues related to international protection, migration and global displacement
• At least three years’ experience, or similar, working in a policy and/or advocacy role.
• A proactive approach to policy research and, where necessary, seeking funding for the same. 
• Excellent analytical skills, first-class attention to detail, strong organisational and time management skills.
• The ability to work to tight deadlines, and on own initiative.
• Commitment to equality, including gender and racial equality, and to IRC’s vision, mission and values.
• Experience of representing an organisation in external networks, forums and events

Desirable:

• Experience with refugees and refugee policy at either a national, EU or international level.
• Experience representing an organisation in external networks, forums and events
• A willingness and ability to engage with the media to explain and advocate for IRC policy.
• Additional languages, e.g. French, Arabic, Ukrainian.

More information available here: https://www.irishrefugeecouncil.ie/work-for-us