Saferworld Europe Trustees and General Assembly Members

Saferworld – We put People at the heart of what we do.

Our priority is people – we believe in a world where everyone can lead peaceful, fulfilling lives, free from fear and insecurity.

Who we are

We are a not-for-profit organization operational in 10 countries across Africa, Asia and the Middle East. Established in 1989 Saferworld is an independent international organisation working to prevent violent conflict and build safer lives. We work with people affected by conflict to improve their safety and sense of security, and conduct wider research and analysis. We use this evidence and learning to improve local, national and international policies and practices that can help build lasting peace.

Today, with headquarters in London and a presence in regional and policy centres including Brussels, Nairobi, Vienna, Washington DC and Beijing, we remain one of the world’s leading organisations on conflict prevention thinking and practice. Learn more about us by visiting: www.saferworld.org.uk

Saferworld Europe asbl. is based in Brussels, Belgium and is an affiliate of Saferworld, operating in the policy environment of the EU and key EU member states. We deliver our engagement with relevant government, inter-governmental and non-governmental institutions in Europe interlinking with staff and partners in both policy centres and conflict affected countries.

About the Saferworld Europe board and General Assembly members

The Board of Saferworld Europe is currently looking for new General Assembly members to join us at an exciting time to support our development and continue our peacebuilding work in complex environments. Our organisation is led by its Board, who are responsible for the governance and strategic direction of the organisation. Some General Assembly members may in time become board members. Being a Saferworld Trustee is an influential and valuable role and you will make an important contribution to our current peacebuilding work, and our future direction.

Who we are looking for

We are interested in hearing from individuals who share our values, have capacity for independent and creative thinking, and bring relevant competence and experience to our General Assembly. Whether you are an experienced Trustee or wanting to take your first step at Board level, we still want to hear from you. SWE GA has currently a strictly limited role – it is not the policy strategy approving body in practice, for that competence is officially retained by the board of Saferworld itself. But GA members may shift into board roles at a later stage.

In addition to people with knowledge and commitment around Saferworld’s particular contributions to conflict prevention and peacebuilding policy and programming, we also value experience of the countries and communities where we work. Having a background in specialist areas that will enhance our effectiveness as a general assembly is especially welcome, such as, organisational development and change; executive management and leadership; risk and compliance management; financial management and accounting; fundraising/ donor experience/ funding connections are desirable; media and communications; human resource development – but also programmatic experience such as the role of social change movements and networks in peacebuilding or political influencing. It is desirable that some GA members should have ‘lived experience’ of the contexts of Saferworld/SWE work with insights on key political contexts, such as France and Germany or from conflict affected countries (Sahel, Somalia, Afghanistan and others).

Understanding and experience in fundraising is particularly welcomed, be it from European Union budgets, member state agencies, or from private and charitable sources.

No candidate is expected to have a background in all of these specialist areas, so candidates should not be put off by the length of this list!

Saferworld is an equal opportunities employer and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees and Trustees. We celebrate difference and applications are actively encouraged from individuals from diverse backgrounds, in particular, those who reflect and represent the communities we work in. We are committed to ensuring gender equality within our organisation and we also welcome those who represent the youth we engage with.

Our SWE board and General Assembly members are expected to carry out the following duties honestly and reasonably:

· Ensure the organisation is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit

· Comply with our governing document and law

· Act in the organisations best interests

· Manage the organisation’s resources responsibly

· Act with reasonable care and skill

· Ensure the organisation is accountable

Benefits and Expenses

The benefits of becoming one of our Trustees is the opportunity to make strategic decisions and develop new skills, network with senior professionals, and influence the future shape and direction of Saferworld Europe. In line with the regulations and practice, no payment will be made for these positions, but all expenses will be reimbursed for attendance at our meetings.

Time commitment

Your minimum commitment in an average year is likely to be about 4 days, of which 2 would be on fixed dates, planned well in advance. We encourage active participation and Trustees often give more time. Initial term of office is for 3 years, with the potential to be reappointed for a further 3 years.

There are two Board meetings a year and one General Assembly a year, each lasting half a day – (with e-participation). In addition, there can be some contributions required for reflection processes and working group meetings as well as support for the successful achievement of objectives. We also encourage Trustees to visit a country programme internationally when possible or required – and you’ll be invited to attend occasional events to support the charity and asked to provide support and advice when appropriate.

You will be offered a comprehensive induction and ongoing support by your peers and colleagues, including sessions at every Board/ GA meeting about our work and the Trustee role.

How to apply

We will welcome applications from well qualified people who are based outside Europe and North America and who represent the communities we work with. We are committed to strengthening age and gender diversity as well as diversity of professional backgrounds in the GA and board.

We encourage women to apply.