Military Coordinator in Predstavnictvo ZhENEVSKOGO ZAKLIKU

Ukrainian military veterans who have been discharged from military service are strongly encouraged to apply. 

Role: As a an Engagement Coordinator at Geneva Call, your role involves supporting the planning and monitoring of critical Law of Armed Conflict (LoAC)/IHL training programs. You will build strategic and solid partnerships with key groups and individuals, notably military units and their commanders, including high-ranking officers, as well as military administrations and local volunteer groups. Your work is essential in improving LoAC knowledge, attitudes, and practices, through close communication and coordination with armed actors. You will work with the Programs team to implement overall engagement strategy, build trust and promote Geneva Call’s mission. By joining our team, you will actively contribute to making a tangible impact on the ground and support Ukraine's commitment to upholding international norms within the global community, including the protection of  civilians within the framework of International Humanitarian Law.   
 

Mission: Geneva Call, registered and active in Ukraine since 2018 and with offices in cities including Kyiv, Kharkiv, Dnipro, and Odesa, has a strong partnership with the Ukrainian community and international partners. The organization focuses on providing training related to the LoAC/IHL, collaborating closely with the military, volunteers, and local authorities. It uses the expertise of Ukrainian veterans and active military members to provide specialized training and initiatives like the Code of Warriors of Light, reflecting Ukraine's spirit. 

The organization's mission is tosupport Ukraine's commitment to law and international standards, rather than investigating conflict law violations. Geneva Call emphasizes good practices within the Ukrainian military, offering guidance on the practical application of national and international conflicthumanitarian laws through tailored field training, particularly for military operators. This approach helps in making sound, ethical decisions in difficult combat situations and strengthens Ukraine's alignment with global standards, contributing to the nation's international objectives. 

Responsibilities 

External relations with military: Identify entry points, organize meetings and build/maintain relationships with Ukrainian military, including senior commanders, TDF, veterans’ associations, foreign battalions, recently integrated units, General Staff, Ministry of Defense, and others. 

External communications/advocacy: Oversee and conduct advocacy with Ukrainian military and government officials explaining Geneva Call’s mission and advocating for compliance with LoAC and the protection of civilians. Identify any obstacles relating to communication between military at all levels and advise on building relationships.

Liaison and relationship management: Establish and maintain dialogue with Ukrainian military actors on civilian protection issues.  Act as a liaison and information channel with priority stakeholders. Build trust and ensure ongoing and mutual exchange of information.

Coordination with Programme Team: Provide guidance to Programme Team on approaches to promote and engage on LoAC compliance and civilian protection issues with the military. 

Field operations support: Provide support on operational planning with an emphasis on enhancing Geneva Call’s reputation and access.  

Context/Situation monitoring and analysis: Keep management updated with regular briefings on the current political and miliary landscape. Seek information to improve Geneva Call’s situational understanding in geographical areas of operation. 

LoAC trainings: Organise and conduct LoAC trainings with relevant military units. Contribute to monitoring training quality and collaborate with trainers to enhance the effectiveness of training sessions.  

Selection Criteria 

Education: Bachelor’s degree required. A master’s degree in a relevant field, such as International Humanitarian Law, International Relations, Military Specialties, or other related fields, is desirable. 

Experience: Minimum 5 years in training, civil-military coordination (CIMIC/CM-Coord), humanitarian, or similar roles, preferably with experience in working with the military or volunteer groups in Ukraine. Experience in fieldwork with international NGOs in conflict or crisis situations is highly regarded. Experience of military service in the conditions of hostilities is an advantage.   

Interpersonal and Communication Skills: Exceptional skills in persuasion, negotiation, and influence are essential, along with strong coaching skills. Proficiency in both written and verbal communication, particularly suited for engagements with the Ukrainian military and diverse stakeholders, is required. The role demands the capacity to communicate effectively with military personnel at all levels, including those at the lower ranks. An understanding of the Ukrainian armed forces' structure, the ranking system, and the chain of command is an advantage. Familiarity with the unique aspects of volunteer armed formations is also important. 

Adaptability: Capable of working under pressure in conflict-affected areas and managing multiple tasks simultaneously.

Travel Flexibility: Willingness and readiness to travel on short notice, including to insecure areas (Note: Geneva Call does NOT operate at the ‘zero line’ in Ukraine, but does conduct trainings and activities in areas considered higher risk with support from dedicated Safety and Security staff). 

Languages: Proficiency in English (B2 / C1 / C2 level) and Ukrainian.