Internews Ukraine is seeking a Government Relations Advisor for the USAID/ RADA Next Generation (RANG) Activity. Priorities of the Mission are digitization of the processes and contributing to building trust to the institution by involving voters in the electoral process.

Purpose

The purpose of the RADA Next Generation (RANG) activity is to address the Verkhovna Rada of  Ukraine's (VRU) most critical challenges and enable the VRU to become a modern, effective institution that promotes accountability and democratic development in Ukraine. This will be achieved by addressing challenges in the VRU's legislative processes, while concurrently identifying and taking advantage of  opportunities where the VRU can improve as an effective, democratic institution.

The successful candidate is an experienced communicator, with deep understanding of Ukrainian politics, having good relations in this sphere, having past experience in the government relations work, development of design and strategies of the similar projects.

Background

RANG will focus on an integrated two factor approach that simultaneously facilitates continuity and  stability within the VRU and builds on past RADA successes and achievements through innovation to  strengthen the institution within the Ukrainian democratic framework. Ensuring sustainability of current and previous parliamentary strengthening activity initiatives and VRU buy-in and support will also be  primary considerations and central objectives throughout the implementation of RANG. More on the project you can find here: internews.ua/rang

Key Duties / Responsibilities

• As requested, accompany the Mission management and/or other Mission colleagues to public speaking engagements, conferences, public affairs activities, and site visits, providing input and assistance at the event.

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of all USAID/ RADA Next Generation (RANG) activities, as well as a keen awareness of political and policy issues.

• Provide advice and recommendations to the Chief of Party on government and parliamentary processes.

• Build and maintain collaborative relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, and facilitate their engagement with, and contribution to, timely and accurate information to inform the Chief of Party.

• Identify and work with implementing partners, NGOs, CSOs, CBOs, communities, and local leaders to complete strategic objectives and coordinate activities through project work sites.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Excellent spoken and written English and Ukrainian.

• MA (or equivalent) in international relations, journalism, public relations, or other relevant discipline.

• At least 5 years of experience of work in the senior management/government relations position.

• Deep understanding of politics and government relations in the post-soviet countries.

• Previous experience working on USAID or other donor-funded projects will be a plus.

• Strategic vision and strategic approach.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

• Advanced MS Word, PowerPoint and Outlook user.

Capabilities for the role

• Advanced mediation, communication and relationship management skills including an ability to influence, negotiate and build productive working relationships with key stakeholders, senior VRU staff and external partners, including government, are essential to achieve the required outcomes.

• Excellent critical thinking and analytical skills to enable assessment of complex, higher education issues of concern to stakeholders. The ability to quickly assimilate information, analyze data and be able to provide strategic advice, guidance and decisions on behalf of the program.

• The ability to handle complex multiple assignments at the same time and with competing demands and deadlines while maintaining a calm demeanor is essential.

• The ability to make difficult and complex decisions with good judgment and acute sensitivity to the political environment and to the reputation of the organization. The highest ethical standards, tact and diplomacy are essential.

• The ability to think and act strategically, creatively and dynamically in a high-pressure work environment. Must be confident, organized and an accomplished problem solver.

• Advanced oral and written communication skills including the ability to write and edit quickly, accurately and creatively. Must be confident with public speaking.

• Highly developed relationship building and leadership skills with the demonstrated ability to develop and support a professional, service and continuous improvement-focused workplace culture.

• The ability to be proactive in anticipating the needs of leadership.

For consideration, please email resume/CV, cover letter, and salary requirements via email [email protected] using the subject line: Government Relations Advisor no later than January 08, 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Internews Ukraine is an organization that has expertise in media, communications, education, and consulting. Innovation, professionalism, and efficiency are three pillars of our organization. Serving the Ukrainian society has been our enduring priority since 1996.