Director, Global Peacebuilding Unit

About the role

International Alert is seeking a dynamic peacebuilding expert to lead its Global Peacebuilding Unit. Reporting to the Global Director of Policy, Advocacy and Communications, you will shape and deliver the organisation’s thematic peacebuilding programmes and influence policy and practice worldwide.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to a high‑performing team of specialists across gender, climate, peace economies and conflict hubs.
• Oversee implementation of the current strategy and develop proposals for future direction.
• Develop, monitor and report on work plans, ensuring coherence across thematic areas.
• Guide, motivate and manage four thematic leads, coaching them to lead their own teams.
• Ensure the unit has the necessary support from finance, HR and fundraising functions.
• Represent the unit internally and externally, building partnerships with development actors and donors.
• Manage the unit’s budget (approximately £1.5 m) and secure new funding to sustain long‑term operations.

Required profile

• Extensive experience and knowledge of peacebuilding and conflict‑sensitive development.
• Proven ability to lead, nurture and motivate expert teams.
• Strong track record of managing complex projects and budgets.
• Experience in income generation, donor relationship management and financial acumen.
• Visionary, collaborative leader with ambition and focus.

Required skills

What we offer

• Opportunity to influence global peacebuilding policy and practice.
• Leadership role within an internationally recognised NGO.
• Collaborative, flexible working environment across multiple geographies.