Head of Operations At Association for the Prevention of Torture

Location: Geneva, Switzerland

Term: 90% -100% Open ended contract

Projected start date: 1 April 2025

Application deadline: 6 December 2024

The Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT) is seeking to recruit a Head of Operations to steer and support the APT team’s operations.

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

We are looking for an inspiring and collaborative leader, capable of managing a team of up to eight senior advisers while strategically driving and coordinating the operations of the APT. This role demands expertise in project management, ensuring the seamless execution of our operations and effective monitoring of progress under our new Strategic Plan. If you are skilled in leading high performing teams and experienced in the field of human rights, we invite you to bring your leadership and strategic vision to our dedicated team.

ABOUT THE APT (to learn more: www.apt.ch.)

The Association for the Prevention of Torture (APT) is an international non-governmental human rights organisation established in 1977. APT works for societies without torture and ill-treatment, advocating at the international, regional and national levels with an approach based on cooperation, dialogue and partnerships. Our multicultural team of 16 staff comprises members working at the Centre Jean-Jacques Gautier in Geneva and in different locations around the world (Brazil, Mexico and Senegal). The APT is an association under Swiss law, led by a Board elected by the General Assembly.

Our vision: Societies without torture or ill-treatment. We implement this vision by:

• Influencing national, regional and international legal frameworks, standards, policies and practices to reduce the risks of torture and ill-treatment
• Supporting partners’ efforts to advance torture prevention, contributing our respective expertise and resources to maximise impact
• Bringing people together in constructive dialogue to build support for torture prevention and identify practical solutions

MAIN ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES

The Head of Operations will provide overall leadership and management of the strategies and plans concerning APT operations. Reporting to the Secretary General, they will hold the second most senior position in the organisation and be a core member of the leadership team. They will support the fulfilment of APT’s vision and be deeply committed to APT’s values and mission.

Leadership and strategy

 Support, lead and manage a cohesive and capable team up to eight advisers and senior advisers

 Lead the development and implementation of APT’s operational plans and associated strategies, under the guidance of the Secretary General

Project management

 Ensure the smooth planning and effective implementation of APT projects, supporting senior advisers in achieving project goals

 In coordination with the finance and fundraising managers, and under the supervision of the Secretary General, oversee project budgets and contributions for the timely reporting to donors

 Develop clear procedures to streamline information exchange between APT team members in Geneva and abroad and maximise synergies between different APT projects across regions

 Oversee internal knowledge management and monitor progress under APT plans and projects, driving internal work on MEAL (Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability and Learning)

 Optimise tools and processes to enhance operational efficiency

 Hold direct responsibility for at least one operation or thematic file

Representation

 Support the APT’s external representation and communication on APT operations, including with government authorities and partners.

 Replace the functions of Secretary General as required during her absences

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

• Master’s degree in law, political science, international relations, social science or a related field, or equivalent experience.

Experience

• A minimum of 10 years of relevant professional experience in the human rights field. Previous involvement in torture prevention is an asset

• Proven leadership and management experience in multicultural settings

• Experience in organisational development as well as project management, monitoring and evaluation

Knowledge and skills

• Strong commitment to human rights values and to the preventive approach

• Strategic thinking, planning and problem-solving skills

• Ability to lead a multidisciplinary team with appreciation, empathy and purpose, set direction and assist the team in achieving results

• A collaborative and receptive leadership style

• Proven representation skills

• Excellent communication and drafting skills

• Fluency in both English and French; Spanish and/or Portuguese an asset

• Availability to travel occasionally to any region of the world

WHAT WE OFFER

Salary: a range between CHF 102’000 and CHF 120’000 per year for a 100% position (or pro rata for 90%) is offered, depending on experience

Benefits: standard pension plan; 25 days of holidays per annum (at 100%) plus national holidays and additional days at the end of the year; compensation days related to mission travel; learning and development opportunities; option to work from home up to 2 days per week, free car parking space. We pay attention to private life – including family and work balance, and we emphasise well-being.

Working environment: Exceptional working environment in APT eco-friendly building, in a green location near to public transportation and the United Nations HQ building.