Objective Lead for Civil Society

RESPONSIBILITIES

Civil Society Engagement

• Develop and implement strategies to engage and strengthen civil society organizations’ understanding of environmental and social safeguards for infrastructure development in the Mekong subregion.

• Develop new and foster existing partnerships and networks among CSOs, NGOs, and other stakeholders to promote effective advocacy and policy influence on environmental and social safeguards.

• Coordinate and lead events, workshops, and forums to enhance civil society engagement and collaboration.

• Provide technical assistance and capacity-building support to CSOs to enhance their effectiveness and sustainability.

• Ensure quality and alignment of CSOs' work to Mekong Safeguards' higher-level project objectives and standards.

• Conduct field visits to project sites, engaging directly with local communities and other stakeholders.

Policy and Advocacy

• Drive the design and implementation of advocacy campaigns to promote the adoption and enforcement of robust environmental and social safeguards.

• Collaborate with CSOs to co-develop policy briefs, position papers, and other advocacy materials.

• Engage with government officials, multilateral agencies, and other stakeholders to promote policy changes that benefit civil society and vulnerable populations.

• Ensure CSO activities align with local government strategy and connect local government programs to support CSOs and communities where applicable.

Capacity Building

• Design and deliver training programs and workshops to build the capacity of CSOs and other stakeholders.

• Provide mentorship and technical support to CSO leaders and staff.

• Develop and disseminate resources and tools to support effective civil society engagement.

• Build CSO’s operational capability to prepare reports, budgets, and accounting in compliance with Mekong Safeguards’ requirements.

Technical Assistance

• Offer specialized support to CSOs in developing and implementing projects and initiatives that align with program objectives.

• Provide expertise in GEDSI and support initiatives focusing on women and vulnerable populations.

Monitoring, Evaluation, and Learning

• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation (M&E) frameworks to assess the impact of civil society engagement activities.

• Collect and analyze data to inform program strategies and improve effectiveness.

• Facilitate learning and knowledge-sharing among CSOs and other stakeholders.

• Project Management

• Lead and coordinate civil society engagement projects from inception to completion, ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards.

• Collaborate with program staff, consultants, and partners to successfully implement civil society engagement activities.

• Monitor and evaluate the impact of civil society engagement initiatives, providing feedback and recommendations for improvement.

QUALIFICATIONS

• A Master’s degree in International Development, Public Policy, Sociology, Environmental Studies, or a related field. A Bachelor’s degree with a demonstrated record of success and substantive related experience may also qualify.

• At least 7 years of experience working with civil society organizations, particularly in Southeast Asia.

• Extensive experience in advocacy, policy development, and capacity building for CSOs.

• Strong background in gender equality, disability, and social inclusion (GEDSI), and working with vulnerable populations.

• Proven track record of leading successful civil society engagement initiatives.

• Demonstrable experience building capacities of regional and local communities and NGOs.

• Demonstrable experience navigating sensitive political environments.

• Experience working in the Mekong subregion or similar contexts is highly desirable.

• Experience with USAID and DFAT civil society support programs.

Skills:

• Strong leadership and strategic planning skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English; proficiency in one or more Thai /Lao/Khmer/Vietnamese is an asset.

• Proficiency in report writing, communications, and public relations.

• Advanced project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet deadlines.

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work effectively in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams.

• Ability to convey complex information compellingly to diverse audiences.

Other Requirements:

• Strong understanding of the political, economic, and social context of the Mekong subregion.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

• Willingness to travel within the region as required.