Head of US Advocacy

About RSF USA

Reporters sans frontières/Reporters Without Borders (RSF) is the world’s largest organization devoted to the safety, pluralism, and independence of journalism. RSF USA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with RSF that helps protect press freedom and the right to reliable information in North America, which includes the United States, Canada, and English-speaking Caribbean countries. We also use our position in Washington, DC, working in concert with RSF’s 13 offices around the world, to advance our global priorities.

Role Description

RSF USA is seeking a Head of US Advocacy to work out of its Washington, DC office, reporting directly to the Executive Director and working in collaboration with RSF HQ’s advocacy team.

Duties may include:

• Working with the ED to manage RSF’s US advocacy strategy
• Maintaining relationships with members of Congress and their staffs
• Monitoring and helping shape legislation relevant to press freedom and the right to information
• Identifying, developing, and implementing opportunities for RSF advocacy, engagement, and strategic litigation in coordination with global advocacy team
• Coordinating with pro bono attorneys to manage RSF’s strategic litigation
• Liaising with federal agencies, including the State Department, Department of Justice, White House, etc.
• Representing RSF in meetings with government officials, partners, coalitions, and other stakeholders
• Collaborating with RSF’s global advocacy team to ensure organizational priorities are being addressed in Washington
• Speaking publicly and on the record on behalf of RSF
• Serving as a strategic advisor and thought partner to the ED
• Performing other duties as assigned
• Occasional international and domestic travel

Qualifications:

• Law degree preferred
• At least four years experience–experience can include work in journalism, advocacy, government, NGOs, public affairs, law practice, or related fields
• Passion for press freedom and a strong desire to defend it
• Intuitive understanding of American politics and policymaking
• Experience working with and contacts in the legislative and/or executive branch (especially White House and State Department)
• Familiarity with the American media landscape
• Solid background in First Amendment issues
• Experience with free speech, free expression, press freedom, or human rights issues
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Demonstrated experience managing multiple projects and competing deadlines
• Self sufficiency and the ability to proactively identify opportunities for RSF engagement and impact
• Proficient with Google Workplace
• Excellent written and oral skills
• Culturally attuned to working in an international organization with colleagues from many different countries
• Creative, outside-the-box thinker with experience doing less with more
• Ability to work a hybrid in-office schedule in downtown Washington, DC
• French language skills are a plus

Compensation:

The projected salary range for this position is $90,000-$100,000. RSF USA offers a generous benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance; 25 days of PTO on top of federal holidays; parental leave; and 401k match.

How to apply:

Please send a resume and cover letter in a single PDF to hiring@rsf.org with the subject line “Advocacy”.

Reporters Without Borders is an equal opportunity employer and will not discriminate against any applicants for employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, caste, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, veteran status, disability; or on any other basis prohibited by law.