External Relations and Protocol Support Associate

IDLO IN MEXICO

Mexico has made significant efforts to modernize its criminal justice system, specifically regarding public security and strengthening the rule of law. The current justice system, which entered into force in 2016, is based on the presumption of innocence and includes police professionalization as a public policy. Despite these advances, it is necessary to increase public trust in police institutions, considering that there is a general perception of impunity. Efforts to strengthen the rule of law face major challenges related to the consolidation and sustainability of the criminal justice system, as well as the capacity of state and municipal governments to provide security to their citizens.

With the support of the Government of Mexico at the federal, state and municipal levels and financed by the United States Department of State through the Merida Initiative, IDLO is strengthening the rule of law by building the capacity of the security sector to consolidate the criminal justice system. The project seeks to support police certification, improve competencies and develop the knowledge and skills of first responders to improve their performance in the criminal justice process.

The project will focus on capacity development in two areas. First, there will be initial training for preventive police at the municipal level under the Professionalization Framework Program (PRP) and certification process to improve their competence and professionalism. Next, the project will enhance the knowledge and skills of first responders to improve their performance in the criminal process and therefore the quality of criminal justice.

THE POSITION

Under the direct supervision of the External Relations Specialist, the External Relations and Protocol Support Associate will be responsible for the following main duties:

• Support on political and legal negotiations with national counterparts linked to the project, in accordance with the IDLO processes.
• Craft, research, draft, and edit official communications, speeches, memos, briefs, and other original materials in the field  and use these materials for the development of relevant outputs.
• Prepare meeting briefs and reports, as well as following up on agreements.
• Support on  a daily basis the activities of the External Relations Specialist.
• Search for technical information related to the implementation of the project, as well as the political, economic, social and security context of Mexico.
• Support on the analysis of international issues related to public security, law enforcement, Rule of Law and the promotion of justice.
• Edit, basic design and review of project materials and infographics.
• Support in obtaining photographic and video material concerning the project.
• Logistical and coordination support for high level meetings and technical meetings between IDLO staff and counterparts.
• Support the External Relations Specialist in the preparation of press releases, bulletins and communication for social networks.
• Support the External Relations Specialist in collecting success stories, good practices, interviews and in the development of audiovisual materials.
• Provide administrative support related to the External Relations Office and ensure process integrity

 IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

 Education and experience

• University degree (bachelor´s degree or equivalent) in International Relations and/or Communication or any other relevant field;
• Advances university degree in relevant field would be considered an asset;
• 2-4  years of professional experience working with Mexican authorities (federal, state and local level);
• Proven experience of working with government institutions, law enforcement or similar fields;
• Experience in writing project success stories, lessons learned and best practices; and
• Experience in working with stakeholders and donors.

 Languages:

• Written and oral fluency in both Spanish and English
• Native Spanish language with excellent writing and spelling skills.

 Specific knowledge, skills and competencies:

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, and the ability to develop excellent relations with government, local community leadership, donors and others;
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint;
• Good understanding of the Mexican context is an asset;
• Ability to live, work and travel in Mexico;
• It is necessary to have knowledge in the handling and use of the semiprofessional camera and video;
• Self-motivated and dynamic with a willingness and ability to use initiative to assist the organization to achieve its objectives;
• Highly developed sense of ethics, integrity and commitment to IDLO’s mandate; and
• The ability to work under pressure with tight deadlines, flexibility and an entrepreneurial spirit.

 TERMS AND CONDITIONS

For this local recruited position, IDLO shall offer the selected candidate a 1 year (12 months) local Affiliate contract, with possibility of extension subject to performance and availability of funding.

This vacancy is open to candidates who are national of the duty station, or with permanent residence status or other legal authorization permitting to work in the duty station.  An employee subject to local recruitment shall not be eligible for the allowances or benefits exclusively applicable to international employees.

IDLO offers a competitive remuneration and benefits for nationally-recruited employees including a comprehensive leave package as well as medical insurance.

All applications should be submitted electronically to: mgarcia@idlo.int 

Eligible applicants should include a CV and a written statement in Spanish ―not to exceed one page― describing the suitability for and interest in this position.

IDLO is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values diversity in all areas of its operations. We welcome and encourage diverse applications.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

DISCLAIMER AND CLOSING DATE

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of the work being performed by the Contractor assigned to this work. This may not be an exhaustive list of all duties and responsibilities.

 IDLO reserves the right to amend and change responsibilities or even to cancel the recruitment to meet business and organizational needs as necessary.