Executive Director

Since 1991, Statewatch has had just two Directors. The successful candidate for this role will be the first Director recruited from outside the organisation. The ideal candidate will have a clear understanding of Statewatch’s history and purpose, along with ideas and initiative to adapt and respond our work to a rapidly changing political and social environment.

Key responsibilities

• Effective day-to-day management of Statewatch
• Maintaining and developing relationships with funders and identifying new
  opportunities for generating income
• Strategic monitoring, evaluation, planning and implementation of our work
• Speaking on behalf of Statewatch in networks and public forums
• Identifying and initiating opportunities for action and cooperation with
  relevant organisations, institutions and individuals
• Recruiting, supervising and supporting staff and volunteers, including
  occasional writing and editing
• Ensuring that internal policies and procedures are relevant and up-to-date
• Reporting to and supporting the Board of Trustees

Key results
1. Statewatch increases its position as a resource for and ally to organisations and individuals engaged in campaigning, advocacy, research and action
2. Staff and volunteers have the care, support, supervision, structure, guidance and resources necessary to carry out their works
3. Projects, activities and outputs are of a high standard, on time and within budget
4. Our current strategic plan (2022-26) is thoroughly evaluated and a new plan for the following period is drafted and implemented
5. The income needed to carry out and expand our work is secured

6. Regulatory and legal compliance, effective governance, and strategic, financial and risk management remain in place

Criteria – we’re looking for someone who…

• Demonstrates a commitment to civil liberties, human rights and democratic
  standards
• Has knowledge of the areas and issues in which Statewatch has expertise and
  experience
• Has experience planning, drafting and implementing organisational strategy
• Has experience fundraising from a range of sources
• Feels comfortable providing the support, guidance and advice necessary for
  the effective functioning of a small team
• Is willing to support the work of staff, including by editing articles and reports
  and publishing communications
• Can demonstrate experience of writing and editing for a variety of audiences
• Has a strong written and spoken command of the English language
• Has experience working with or within NGOs, non-profit organisations and/or
  social movements and campaign groups
• Is up-to-date with the current challenges and opportunities for defending
  and advancing civil liberties, human rights and democratic standards
• Has a solid understanding of the political and social context in which
  Statewatch and its networks operate in the UK, the EU and, preferably, beyond.

Statewatch recognises that women, racially minoritised candidates and people with disabilities are less likely to apply unless they meet every single requirement, even if they’d be great in the role. If that sounds like you, they strongly encourage you to apply anyway: “Where legally permissible, we give preference to candidates from underrepresented groups, in line with our commitment to equity and justice.”

On 19 September Statewatch hosted an information session for interested applicants via Zoom. If you would like access to the recording, please contact our Head of Communications.