Switzerland: Head of the Centre for Women in the Himalayas

Norlha is a non-profit, apolitical, non-religious NGO based in Lausanne, Switzerland. We support remote communities in the Himalayas by building capacities through integrated projects. The Centre for Women in the Himalayas is a key plank of our strategy to place women at the hearth of its intervention. Created in 2016, it is a platform for enabling, knowledge-building/sharing and learning aimed at promoting gender-inclusive development practices. To advance the work of the Centre, Norlha is looking for a:

Head of the Centre for Women in the Himalayas

Job description

Under the supervision of the Director and in close coordination with the management team of Norlha, the Head will lead all aspects of the management of the Centre, and in particular:

· Promote externally a compelling vision. Actively reach out to potential partners, users and funders, by conducting active networking, communication and promotion of the centre;

· Manage and supervise - in close cooperation with the regional office - the development of work plans and activities, monitor progress, and devise and control project expenditures;

· Inspire, lead and guide a team of about 4-6 persons, ensuring timely recruitment as needed;

· Strengthen and further develop a programme of interconnected activities;

· Raise and manage a solid funding base in cooperation with the Partnership department;

· Ensure a cohesive communication with other departments and act as the focal point for gender;

· Actively represent the Centre in events and processes organized by external partners;

· Organize conferences, meetings, workshops, webinars, training events as per Centre’s activities;

· Assume responsibility as a member of the Senior Management Team of Norlha.

Candidate Profile

· Advanced university degree in gender studies, development studies or related fields;

· Strong leadership skills, imagination and resourcefulness, energy, tact and commitment;

· Strong experience in management, incl. in programme development/ coordination/ implementation and objective-based manager;

· Solid experience in gender issues and an affinity with the countries of the Himalayas desirable;

· Good interpersonal and team payer skills; demonstrated ability to work in a multicultural environment and Adherence to the principles and values of Norlha;

· Ability to identify clients' needs and propose appropriate solutions as well as establish and maintain effective relations with outside collaborators and other contacts;

· Ability to adopt a hands-on approach including the performance of routine administrative and organisational tasks involved in project management;

· Compelling verbal and nonverbal communications skills

Norlha offers

· The opportunity to play an active life changing role in the vulnerable populations in the Himalayas;

· Working in an enthusiastic, motivated and cohesive team;

· A high degree of autonomy, a great sense of responsibility, and a spirit of initiative;

· A rewarding managerial NGO experience;

· Moderate compensation for expenses.

Duration and work time: At least 2 years, 3/4 days a week

Location: Weekly presence at the Lausanne office; partially home-based work

Application process: Please apply by sending your cover letter and CV to joinleadership@norlha.org

Expected start date: As soon as possible

This part-time, long-term volunteer position is not paid and an applicant must have right to volunteer in Switzerland

We thank all those who apply, however, due to limited resources, only short listed candidates will be contacted. Please note that this position is unpaid.

Application process: Please apply by sending your cover letter and CV to joinleadership@norlha.org