Position: Managing Director
Location: Leipzig, Germany
Application Deadline: 27 September 2024
Starting Date: 1 January 2025
About ECPMF
The European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) in Leipzig has been a fast growing cooperative on media freedom in Europe. Originally founded by “Medienstiftung der Sparkasse Leipzig”, and today ten years after the launch of ECPMF we are a partner-oriented organization with an annual turnover on 5 million € and 20 employees. Among our currently most important works are the MFRR (Media Freedom Rapid Response), a residence programme for threatened journalists and for journalists in exile, a comprehensive programme “Voices of Ukraine” supporting journalists and media in Ukraine, Investigative Journalism for EU (IJ4EU) – everything in cooperation with strong partners.
The future of media freedom in Europe is challenging. Media deserts with extinction of local media, SLAPP-cases (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public participation), state control of media and accusing journalists being enemies. All in the core business of the ECPMF to work on.
Key Responsibilities
We are seeking a managing director to following:
- Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement the organization’s strategic plan, ensuring alignment with its mission and vision with reference to the boards decisions.
- Operational Management: Oversee day-to-day operations, including program management, financial oversight, and human resources.
- Advocacy and Representation: Together with the boards of the ECPMF represent the organization at national and international forums, engage with policymakers, media organizations, and other stakeholders.
- Fundraising and Partnerships: Lead fundraising efforts to secure financial sustainability, and cultivate relationships with donors, partners, and other organizations.
- Team Leadership: Manage a diverse and talented team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive working environment.
Monitoring and Reporting: Ensure effective monitoring, evaluation, and reporting on all ECPMF activities and projects.
Qualifications:
- Leading and encouraging an innovative team with a lot of knowledge and experience.
- Experience in application management and project development
- Experience in journalism.
- Proven experience in leadership
- Knowledge about both German and European media policy
- Cooperative approach to partners and other stakeholders
- Political understandings – also understanding behind the lines
- Innovative and strategic thinking for further organizational development
- Excellent communication and advocacy skills
- Understanding and respecting the roles of boards and management
- Fluently in English and German – writing and speaking
- Skills in third languages will be an advantage
- Furthermore, the director is expected being based in Leipzig
What We Offer:
An opportunity to lead a respected organization at the forefront of press and media freedom in a collaborative and mission-driven work environment. The salary and working conditions will be leaning within a frame of salaries for directors within NGO’s and organizations belonging to the cooperative, and the director will be expected to organize her or his own working hours with reference to the executive board.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates should submit a CV, a cover letter outlining their suitability for the role, and contact information for references to Mogens Blicher Bjerregård, mbb@europeanjournalists.org by before September 27th. Please include “Managing Director Application – [Your Name]” in the subject line.
The ECPMF is committed to diversity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of race, gender, disability, sexual orientation, religion, or nationality.
