Job Overview
Executive Director | Human Rights Watch (Remote)
Human Rights Watch (HRW) is searching for an Executive Director to lead the organization at a time of extraordinary challenges for human rights globally. This is a critical leadership role that will champion the power and relevance of human rights and humanitarian law on the world stage. It offers a salary range of $475,000 – $535,000 annually.
About the Role
As the public face of the organization, the Executive Director will be responsible for all strategic, programmatic, financial, and operational aspects of Human Rights Watch. You will report to and work closely with the HRW Board of Directors and a high-functioning leadership team. Therefore, this role requires a strategic and inspirational leader who can guide a global organization.
Executive Director hrw
Key Priorities
The Executive Director will focus on the following core priorities:
- Shape & Guide Strategy: Evolve the organization’s long-term strategy to meet new challenges.
- Uphold Research Excellence: Maintain HRW’s reputation for research excellence, adhering to its core methodology of Investigate, Expose, Change.
- Drive Fundraising: Work closely with the development team to enhance donor relationships and expand the philanthropic support base.
- Ensure Organizational Health: Focus on efficiency, effective decision-making, and risk management to ensure the long-term health of the organization.
- Foster Culture: Foster a culture of collaboration, teamwork, and mutual respect among diverse, geographically dispersed teams.
Candidate Profile
HRW seeks a bold, strategic, and inspirational leader with deep domain expertise in human rights. The ideal candidate will be a gifted communicator who can amplify HRW’s external influence and serve as the preeminent advocate on the world stage. Furthermore, you must be a collaborative and inclusive manager with a proven ability to lead a high-performing and diverse team.
Organizational Facts & Figures
- Global Presence: Approximately 500 staff members from 80 nationalities across over 100 cities, with 27 offices globally.
- Financials: The organization has an annual budget of approximately $100 million and receives 0% government funding, relying on 48,000 donors globally.
- Impact: HRW’s research covers more than 100 countries, and its website receives 6 million visits annually. The organization also has 13 million social media followers and secures over 395,000 media mentions each year.
Compensation & Logistics for HRW Executive Director
- Compensation: The annual salary range is $475,000 – $535,000. HRW offers a competitive compensation package, including relocation assistance.
- Location: Candidates can work remotely but should be based in New York City or another convenient city with an HRW office. Frequent global travel is required.
- Application Process: Human Rights Watch is partnering with SpencerStuart for this search. You should submit application materials or nominations to HRWED@Spencerstuart.com.
Apply on the official website
FAQs for HRW Executive Director
- What kind of experience does HRW seek? The ideal candidate needs demonstrated expertise in human rights. While prior work at a human rights NGO is not required, experience in strategic and operational leadership, as well as a track record of successful fundraising, is essential.
- Does HRW promote diversity? Yes, HRW is committed to diversity. It actively seeks a diverse applicant pool and encourages candidates of all backgrounds to apply. The organization does not discriminate based on age, gender, race, religion, or any other factor.