Front Line Defenders Seeks Head of Middle East and North Africa| Salary up to €91,382 | Apply by 1 Nov 2026
Overview
Front Line Defenders is seeking a Head of Middle East and North Africa to provide senior leadership for regional protection operations. This permanent role involves setting regional priorities, guiding the protection team, managing financial and operational plans, and directing support to human rights defenders facing risks in challenging environments. The position reports to the Director of Global Protection.
Who can apply
Candidates must have at least 10 years of senior-level experience within a human rights organization or a comparable body in a leadership capacity. Applicants are required to possess substantial knowledge of international human rights work, the protection needs of human rights defenders, and the political context across the Middle East and North Africa. Essential qualifications include significant experience in strategic planning, people management, remote team coordination across different time zones, budget oversight, fundraising, and direct work with human rights defenders. Fluency in both English and Arabic is mandatory, along with strong political judgment, analytical abilities, and communication skills.
What you get
The position provides an annual salary of €73,327 to €91,382. The accompanying benefits package includes 26 days of annual leave, a pension scheme, paid health insurance, income protection, life assurance, an employee assistance scheme, and monthly wellbeing provisions.
Requirements
The role requires leading a regional protection team to develop and implement strategic work plans, identifying human rights trends, and coordinating timely interventions. Responsibilities include strengthening operational systems, assessing financial, legal, operational, and reputational risks, managing regional budgets, and maintaining relationships with partners and funders. The successful candidate must also foster an inclusive working environment that supports staff wellbeing and addresses stress and burnout.
How to apply
Interested candidates are required to submit a curriculum vitae and a cover letter through the official recruitment page of Front Line Defenders. Applicants should thoroughly review the full job requirements prior to submission.
Key dates
The application deadline is 1 November 2026 at 5:00 p.m. Irish time.