Membership Director

Organization: NEAR (Network for Empowered Aid Response), (Hosted by Adeso – African Development Solutions)

Reporting To: Executive Director

Duration: 12 months, with the possibility of extension

Starting Date: As soon as possible

ABOUT ADESO

NEAR is currently hosted by Adeso, an expanding and vibrant African based international development and humanitarian organization. Adeso and NEAR both aspire to prevent and overcome situations that adversely affect community well-being by: Influencing policy change and enacting systemic change through innovative solutions led by local and national actors.

ABOUT NEAR

NEAR (Network for Empowered Aid Response) is a movement of Global South civil society organizations with a bold ambition – to reshape the top-down humanitarian and development system to one that is locally driven and owned, and is built around equitable, dignified and accountable partnerships. NEAR’s vision is a world where local communities have the resources and agency to address the challenges that impact them. NEAR is currently hosted by Adeso, an African based international development and humanitarian organization. Adeso and NEAR both aspire to prevent and overcome situations that adversely affect community well-being by: Influencing policy change and enacting systemic change through innovative solutions led by local and national actors.

POSITION PURPOSE

The Membership Director is responsible for developing and executing strategies to enhance NEAR’s engagement with its network of members and partners. This role focuses on building and nurturing relationships, driving strategic initiatives, and ensuring alignment with NEAR’s strategic objectives. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with excellent communication skills and a proven track record in membership management and engagement.

Specific Roles and Responsibilities

Strategic Planning and Execution:

• Develop and Implement Strategies: Design and execute comprehensive membership engagement strategies to enhance relationships with key members and partners, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
• Identify Opportunities: Proactively identify and prioritize engagement opportunities that support the organization’s objectives and drive growth.
• Evaluate and Adjust: Continuously monitor the effectiveness of membership initiatives, using data to assess impact and refine strategies as necessary.

Member & Partner Engagement:

• Relationship Management: Support Regional Representatives to build and nurture strong, long-term relationships with a diverse range of members and partners.
• Partnership Development: Support Regional Representatives to strategically develop and manage partnerships and collaborations to create mutual benefits and drive engagement.
• Data-Driven Insights: Work with learning team to analyze membership metrics and feedback to evaluate the success of engagement strategies, and use insights to enhance practices.
• Reporting: Manage the preparation and delivery of comprehensive reports on membership activities, outcomes, and strategic impacts.

Membership Structuring through Localization Labs:

• Program Oversight: Lead the structuring and implementation of membership engagement through localization labs, aligning efforts with NEAR’s strategic objectives.
• Localized Strategies: Manage NEAR team to support members and partners in developing and managing localized engagement strategies that address their specific needs and interests.
• Content Creation: Oversee the creation and dissemination of engaging content and communication materials targeted at NEAR members and partners.
• Consistent Messaging: Ensure consistent and effective messaging across all channels, including newsletters, social media, and the website.
• Internal Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams to align messaging and initiatives related to localization labs.

Team Leadership and Collaboration:

• Leadership: Mentor and guide Regional Representatives, providing support and fostering professional growth.
• Collaboration: Promote a collaborative environment, working closely with leadership and other departments to achieve organizational goals.
• Resource Management: Manage budgets and resources efficiently to support membership activities and initiatives.

Other Responsibilities:

• Funding Opportunities: Identify and assist in preparing funding opportunities that align with NEAR’s strategy, supporting efforts to secure these funds in collaboration with NEAR Senior Management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Educational Background: Advanced degree in International Development, International Relations, Business, or a related field.
• Sector Knowledge: Strong understanding of international humanitarian, development, and/or peacebuilding sectors, with awareness of current policy issues and trends relevant to NEAR’s strategic priorities.
• Experience: Proven experience in leading or supporting network members and managing diverse relationships. Experience with national or regional NGO networks/fora is preferred.
• People Management: Excellent skills in people management and communication, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.
• Remote Team Work: Proven ability to work effectively with a fully remote team.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized, self-motivated, and capable of working under pressure while managing multiple priorities.
• Language Proficiency: High standard of written and spoken English is essential. Additional fluency in French, Arabic, or Spanish is preferred.