Global Network Initiative

The Global Network Initiative (GNI) is seeking an Executive Director to lead a new multi-stakeholder organization dedicated to protecting and advancing the human rights of freedom of expression and privacy in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector.

About the Global Network Initiative: The GNI was launched on October 29, 2008 when a diverse group of companies, human rights organizations, academics, investors, and technology leaders published new Principles on Freedom of Expression and Privacy, accompanied by Implementation Guidelines and a Governance, Accountability and Learning Framework. More information about the Initiative can be found at http://www.globalnetworkinitiative.org.

Executive Director Position: The Executive Director will report to GNI’s Board of Directors and will be responsible for key tasks and milestones associated with the establishment and operation of the organization.

Key milestones include: globalizing and increasing GNI’s membership, developing a strategic plan in close consultation with the board, and making the GNI a leading voice in defending and promoting freedom of expression and privacy in the ICT sector.

Location: Washington, D.C.; flexible for the right candidate

Responsibilities: Primary responsibilities of the Executive Director will include:

• Facilitating sound strategic planning to ensure the Initiative’s overall effectiveness, integrity, and sustainability;
• Directing all program components, including oversight and coordination of GNI subcommittees and work streams:
  • Recruiting new participants (company and non-company) and managing membership;
  • Conducting stakeholder outreach and identifying collaborative opportunities;
  • Supporting the implementation of an accountability process for the organization;
  • Managing and further developing a shared learning program, including the creation of relevant human rights resources;
• Acting as spokesperson for the organization and coordinating external communications, including representing the GNI in the media and at public speaking engagements;
• Collecting participant dues and managing resource development / external fundraising efforts;
• Managing the financial and administrative elements of the GNI;
• Maintaining or formulating operational policies, procedures, and protocols;
• Planning and supporting meetings of the Board and of the full membership;
• Planning and executing learning forums and other GNI events, including an annual learning conference;
• Recruiting, hiring, and supervising staff;
• Publishing annual reports on the Initiative’s progress;
• Undertaking other tasks contained in the GNI’s work plan or as directed by the Board.

Qualifications: The Executive Director position is designed for candidates with significant relevant experience. An ideal candidate would have:

• A demonstrated commitment to the goals of the GNI;
• Experience in a start-up and/or nonprofit environment;
• Experience in successfully recruiting and expanding global membership among companies and civil society organizations;
• Directly relevant experience in the ICT sector;
• Experience with addressing the needs of a diverse, global group of stakeholders;
• Demonstrated leadership, management, and organizational skills;
• An entrepreneurial and collaborative working style;
• Seven or more years of relevant experience in human rights, corporate social responsibility and/or Internet and telecommunications policy;
• Superior verbal and written skills;
• An advanced degree in law, public policy, business or other relevant field;
• Fluency in English and at least one other language.

This position represents a significant opportunity for the right individual to work with global leaders to shape the approach that ICT companies and their stakeholders will take to issues of freedom of expression and privacy in years to come.

Compensation: Compensation will be commensurate with experience, and is competitive with public interest and not for profit pay scales.

To Apply: Please email a cover letter explaining your interest and a resume or curriculum vitae to info@globalnetworkinitiative.org (Subject line: “Executive Director Position”). Deadline: July 31, 2009. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The Global Network Initiative is an equal opportunity employer, and does not discriminate on the basis of race, gender, ethnicity, sexual or gender orientation, religion or physical ability.