Advocacy Director

About the ISN

Since its foundation in 1960, the International Society of Nephrology (ISN) has pursued the worldwide advancement of education, science and patient care in nephrology. The Society represents a wide international network and provides an efficient platform for timely scientific exchange, debate and dissemination between healthcare professionals around the world. It is also dedicated to addressing the disparity between the developing and developed worlds in the research, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of kidney disease.

The ISN has 8500+ professional members from more than 160 countries. In addition, it closely collaborates with over 100+ national and regional nephrology societies worldwide, representing about 30,000 professionals. The ISN continues to develop and consolidate several programs, initiatives and partnerships that will help to further deliver on its two overarching goals: reducing the incidence and impact of kidney disease worldwide and making the society a leading international organization for all issues related to the science and practice of nephrology.

Position offered:

ISN is currently looking to recruit its Advocacy Director, to become part of its global team. The successful candidate will be expected to contribute to realizing ISN mission, in particular:

• Continue to successfully build ISN’s reputation as the global kidney health advocate by driving stronger relations with institutions, governments and organizations involved in the global health arena;
• Place kidney health higher on the international health policy agenda by increasing awareness, providing regular input and establishing consistent lines of communication & collaboration with decision-makers, partners and other relevant stakeholders;
• Successfully lead and manage global projects, activities, events and health awareness- raising campaigns;
• Develop a strong network of alliances and foster long term partnership with health stakeholders, societies, corporate partners and patient groups;
• Drive, develop and manage the production of creative and high-quality work such as position papers, reports and call for actions.

Tasks

• Develop, lead and oversee the implementation of the ISN global advocacy strategy;
• Supervise the management of World Kidney Day and help lead any other awareness-raising campaigns aimed at patients and general public;
• Lead ISN public affairs relations with international organizations (including the UN, the WHO and the EU), representation of ISN at official meetings, provide policy input, foster stakeholder mobilization;
• Strategic relationship management with corporate sponsors, patients & advocacy supporters & partners;
• Collaborate with and empower volunteer leaders, fostering a culture of engagement and providing strategic guidance to align their efforts with the overall advocacy objectives of ISN;
• Lead, oversee and manage the activities of the ISN Advocacy Team including recruiting, training, team coaching;
• As a full member of the ISN Management Team, provide strategic advice, reporting and regular updating to ISN Executive Director, ISN leadership and Executive Committee as requested and appropriate;
• Lead the financial management of the Advocacy Budget.

Profile

• At least 8 years of experience working in government, advocacy and/or public affairs aimed at influencing policy development and change;
• Knowledge and direct experience of the workings of WHO and the United Nations is a strong asset;
• Experience of EU or national health advocacy is a plus;
• Knowledge of international health issues, especially in the areas of non-communicable diseases and nephrology;
• Strong leadership skills both as a global advocate and team leader;
• Experience developing and managing efforts to influence policy makers, NGOs, and other external stakeholders;
• Effective as a facilitator in often complex internal and external organizations and processes;
• Strong analytical, writing, editing and verbal for communicating with broad and diverse stakeholders;
• Creative, energetic and innovative approach to identifying solutions and output oriented outcomes;
• Ability to work with efficiency and diplomacy;
• Proven ability to build and cultivate strong relationships;
• Balance competing priorities and identify when to escalate an issue or call out a risk;
• Proficient in English, fluency in another language a plus;
• Proven confidence with all Google, Microsoft tools & programs & social media;
• Understanding and use of selected in-design tools, web analytics, leading project management platforms a plus;
• Expertise in strategically leading the development of technical outputs, including research and educational materials, with a focus on ensuring alignment with advocacy goals, quality assurance, and impactful communication to diverse audiences.

Why you should be interested in this position:

• ISN offers a convenient, central Brussels location, a collegial, international and innovative work environment and benefits according to Belgian law;
• Flexible working arrangements as well as travelling opportunities around the world;
• You will be part of a global non-profit organization, allowing you to interact with highly respected leaders from the sector, expand your network and expertise and grow professionally.

Interested candidates are asked to send their CV and motivation letter to margareta.przybyla@mavence.com

Contact Person

Margareta Przybyla