Country Lead Iraq

PAX is the largest peace organisation in the Netherlands. For the past 75 years, we have been working with local partners in conflict areas worldwide to protect civilians. Against violence of war, towards ending armed conflict and building inclusive peace. If you also believe that everyone has the right to a dignified life in a peaceful society, come work with us!

PAX is looking for a

Country Lead Iraq

Utrecht, NL
(32 hours per week)

We are seeking a Country Lead Iraq with strategic vision, deep contextual knowledge, and political sensitivity. This role involves driving programme development, securing funding, and laying the foundation for PAX’s sustained presence and programming in Iraq beyond 2025. Based in Utrecht, you will coordinate PAX’s activities in Iraq, ensuring synergy across projects and teams while advancing strategic development initiatives. Regular travel to Iraq is required.

PAX’ programmes in Iraq focus on Transformative Justice, Protection of Civilians, Women, Peace and Security, and Climate, Environment and Conflict. In partnership with Iraqi civil society organisations, these programmes operate in both the Kurdistan Region (KRG) and Federal Iraq. Currently, PAX runs a small country office in Erbil and is establishing its presence in Baghdad. Utrecht-based staff regularly travel to Iraq to support and collaborate on these initiatives.

Programme funding for our Transformative Justice and Women, Peace, Security work is currently secured until the end of 2025. We aim to build on our track record in these areas for future programming, with a view to a stronger (international) advocacy and networking role.

What will you do?

• Programme development: identify strategic opportunities to expand the programme’s scope and impact, working closely with the Iraq team and fundraising colleagues;
• Team coordination: facilitate collaboration among Utrecht-based and Erbil-based team members, as well as colleagues from thematic departments (e.g., Protection of Civilians, Gender, Humanitarian Disarmament);
• Line management: supervise Utrecht-based colleagues and field staff;
• Representation: represent PAX to key stakeholders, donors, and diplomatic missions.

Who are we looking for?

• An academic degree in a relevant field (e.g., Conflict Studies, Middle Eastern Studies, International Relations, Political Science);
• At least five years in a similar role in the Middle East, preferably in a conflict setting;
• Demonstrated experience in peacebuilding, human rights, or a related field, including collaboration with local civil society organizations, fundraising, programme development, donor engagement and advocacy;
• Leadership: proven team and project management skills with a coaching-oriented leadership style;
• Cultural Sensitivity: a strong awareness of gender, cultural, and conflict dynamics;
• Networking and Fundraising: robust skills in building networks and securing funding;
• Problem-Solving: solution-oriented, with excellent communication and analytical abilities;
• Strategic Insight: Ability to identify opportunities and translate them into actionable initiatives;
• Fluency in Arabic and English, Dutch is an advantage;
• Willingness to travel regularly to Baghdad and Europe;
• Eligible to work in the EU;
• A strong affinity with PAX’ mission and values.

Screening for integrity is part of the application process at PAX. PAX believes it is important to guarantee the reliability, professionalism and integrity of its organisation and employees. For this reason, PAX will request a Declaration of Conduct or equivalent for new employees.

What do we offer?

• An accessible workplace in a vibrant area in the centre of Utrecht, the Netherlands;
• An interesting position in a dynamic, informal and internationally oriented work environment;
• Start date: per 1 March 2025, or as soon as possible;
• Appointment for 32 hours per week (0,89 fte), initially for a period of 6 months;
• Salary scale 10 according to PKN terms and conditions of employment (depending on experience min. € 3.125,27 and max. € 5.192,81 gross for a fulltime position of 36 hours per week);
• 8,3% year-end bonus and 8% holiday-allowance;
• Full reimbursement of public transport 2nd class commuting costs.

Procedure and information

For more information about PAX see: www.paxvoorvrede.nl.

Do you have any questions? Please contact Evert-Jan Grit, Team Lead Middle East & Europe, via grit@paxforpeace.nl for further information.

Interested candidates are requested to submit their CV and motivation letter addressed to Evert-Jan Grit solely via the application form in Nmbrs Hire.

The closing date for applications to this position is Tuesday 4 February 2025.

At PAX we are looking for motivated colleagues with passion and courage, to build a diverse, inclusive and authentic working environment together. Even if you do not tick all the boxes, we still encourage you to apply, because who knows, we might be a good match together!

Acquisition in response to this advertisement is not appreciated.