Iraq: Middle East Analyst

CONTEXT

The Middle East Analyst is position within the Iraq/Syria mission which aims at increasingly strengthening OCG’s understanding, positioning and network in the Middle East. It aims at providing either general or punctual support to the mission in order to enhance knowledge of context, analyse evolutions, formation and establishment of new actors, research for advocacy purposes, etc. in the areas of intervention of the mission and beyond.

Autonomy, independent work and reactiveness in regularly feeding fieldcos and HoM with relevant topics for development of analysis, further investigations, network exercise and research is utterly crucial for the position.
In this regard close and regular exchanges with fieldcos and HoM advisors shall be taking place.

Covering fieldco gaps, when required, is considered as part of the responsibilities of the position.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND CORE TASKS

Analysis

• Review relevant context related events and contribute to the analysis of the context in which the mission operates
• Delivers monthly situation reports focusing on the evolutions of the network being developed and including specific analysis of the main stakeholders, no state actors and armed groups operating in the areas of interest to the mission.
• Support the mission in analysing events, evolutions, emerging actors and specific topics which are considered as relevant for a better development of operations, security and enhancement of the mission’s network.
• Being proactive in proposing to HoM and fieldcos issues and topics which would deserve some in depth analysis and/or better understanding and on which he/she could provide support.

Networking

• Analyse the existing network and work with the HoM Advisor and HoM in possibly expanding it meaningfully and in line with the operational objectives.
• Maintain an Excel database up-to-date.
• Facilitate and propose contacts for meetings with authorities and stakeholders when required.
• Represents OCG in meetings with HoM (and FieldCos when needed).
• Feeding the mission with contacts and actors which can be relevant for our network and operations.
Working with the fieldcos - based on priorities defined with the HoM - on the mapping of key actors, tribes, armed groups, etc. in the areas concerning our intervention.

Research for operational advocacy and epidemiological studies

Contributing to the development and implementation of appropriate advocacy strategy by carrying out collection and systematization of data relevant to the advocacy objectives. This implies contributing to the developments of tools for this to be done effectively and to propose and allocate resources accordingly.
• Working, according to priorities being defined, on the MCUF dossier.
• Meet with HoM stakeholders which are relevant for the above topics (advocacy and MCUF)
• Conducting, according to operational priorities, epidemiological surveys in areas of interest.

On the Field

• Visiting projects to provide support for context analysis, mapping of actors, research work.
• In agreement with the HoM - to establish network and new contacts in specific areas of interest even if located outside the areas of current intervention.
• When required, participate to exploratory teams that will assess areas for new projects or understanding of the needs (A specific geographic focus will be represented by central Iraq and Baghdad in light of the ambitions towards Salah ad din)

RESPONSIBILITIES TOWARDS MSF

Commitment to MSF

• Availability
• Interest
• Neutrality

General knowledge of MSF

• Has a good understanding of the association, its functioning, structure and value.
• Is aware of MSF objectives and activities.
• Participates actively in meetings and trainings.

Cooperation with other departments

• Is aware of security rules and situation in the field.
• Is aware of activities of other departments and respect specific rules and procedures.

Information source

• Passes on all relevant information related to MSF scope of action and context.

RECRUITMENT CRITERIA

Education: Graduate university degree required.

Experience:
Within MSF: Desirable but not compulsory
Outside MSF: Excellent knowledge of the Middle East context and solid previous experience

Languages:
English & Arabic FLUENT / COMPULSORY
French an asset

Competencies:
List of technical competencies required for the position, such as (not exhaustive):
• Critical analysis
• Writing capabilities
• Organizational skills
• Ability to build a network
• Communication skills and good sense of PR
• Negotiation skills

Personal qualities:
List of personal qualities required for the position, such as (not exhaustive):
• Critical but diplomat
• Good interpersonal skills
• Creative Team Player
• Organized and ready to take initiatives
• Strong sense of integrity

If you are interested, visit our website: www.msf.ch

Please send your complete application (detailed CV and cover letter), specifying in the email and cover letter subject "Middle East Analyst" to:
recruitment@geneva.msf.org

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for an interview.