Field Office Director

 The Carter Center is guided by a fundamental commitment to human rights and the alleviation of human suffering; it seeks to prevent and resolve conflicts, enhance freedom and democracy, and improve health. 

The Center is seeking highly-qualified applicants for the position of Field Office Director to manage the Center’s planned monitoring of the work of the Libya National Congress, the selection or election of a constitution-drafting body, and the development of a constitution, leading up to observation of a constitutional referendum anticipated in mid 2013. Pending funding, this independent contract position is initially assigned for six months, with possible further extension.  Primary consideration will be given to candidates available for the full period.

Primary responsibilities will include:

• Represent The Carter Center in Libya.
• Manage the Center’s planned observation activities.  Contribute to strategic planning of the political and constitutional monitoring program in Libya. Manage all aspects of project implementation and strategic work plan.
• Maintain ongoing liaison with key actors including: government officials, security officials, political party representatives, the international diplomatic and donor community, NGO and civil society leaders, and other critical groups. Recruit and manage other consultants, as applicable.
• Provide analysis and advice to the Carter Center on the political environment, constitutional developments and electoral preparations in Libya.
• Monitor and assess the decision-making process of the GNC. Contribute to the Center’s assessment of whether the legislative and electoral processes related to electoral reform and preparations for a constitutional referendum or national elections is conducted in accordance with international principles and standards.
• Provide weekly written reports and as needed oral briefings to the Center’s Atlanta staff on key programmatic, operational, and substantive political/electoral/constitutional issues.
• Draft Carter Center press releases and public statements.
• Direct and supervise expatriate staff, local staff, and (as relevant) observers and other consultants in conjunction with program management. As needed, oversee daily operations, including equipment rental and acquisition; recruitment, hiring, and capacity building of local staff members. 
• Allocate field office project funds in accordance with budget limitations and donor contract regulations. Supervise field office financial reporting to ensure appropriate management and monitoring of field office operational funds.
• Other program design and implementation duties, as needed.

To read more about the Carter Center’s recent work in Libya, please visit:

http://cartercenter.org/countries/libya-peace.html

Applicants should have a minimum of seven years of senior level experience in election administration, constitutional reform or transitional democracies, ideally in the Middle East/North Africa region or comparable countries in transition. Knowledge of program design and demonstrated management experience is essential, preferably in countries recently emerging from crisis. Professional level Arabic language capacity is highly preferred, but not required. The position requires relocation to Tripoli in late January/early February 2013. Salary is commensurate with experience.

The successful candidate will possess strong program and personnel management skills, and an ability to work effectively leading a diverse team. S/he is highly organized, able to work under pressure and tight deadlines when necessary, possesses strong writing and communication skills, and is competent with computer applications. A positive attitude is required. 

Please send cover letter, CV, contract requirements, and list of references:

Elizabeth Plachta

The Carter Center

453 Freedom Parkway

Atlanta, Georgia 30307

E-mail: cartercenterlibya@gmail.com

Note: Because this is an international election observation project, Libyan nationals are not eligible to serve as Field Office Director.  Additionally, due to the large volume of applicants, only those candidates selected for additional consideration will be notified by the Center.