Programme Lead Training & Events

Mission and vision:

European Journalism Centre (EJC) is a non-profit based in the city of Maastricht, The Netherlands. Founded in 1992 it has been working independently and successfully to support, strengthen and develop journalism.

EJC’s aim is that every journalist and news organisation in Europe shall benefit from an EJC programme or initiative. EJC embraces innovation and positive changes within the industry and is optimistic about the many exciting developments taking place across the media landscape in regards to new business models, new formats and technology. EJC aspires to be an essential resource and provide future insights so it can help journalism and media to innovate and flourish.

EJC believes that reimagining journalism is key.

What will you be doing:

Job title: Programme Lead Training & Events.
Period: One year contract, with the intention to renew.
Starting date: January 2023 (or sooner if possible)
Commitment: 40 hours per week
Location: The Netherlands. Hybrid working system.

The purpose of this role is to lead the team implementing EJC’s Events & Training projects. You will focus on programmes and activities that support journalists, editorial staff and media entrepreneurs to improve their skills and advance their careers.

As a Programme Lead, you will be working under the supervision of the Director of Programmes & impact, and with a team of dedicated Project Managers. You will drive the implementation of new and existing events and training formats which are linked to the latest trends and topics in the fields of journalism, the news industry, and tech & innovation. The position may require regular trips across Europe.

Tasks:

• In collaboration with the Director Programmes & Impact will articulate and implement the strategic vision and leadership of the organisation’s programme services and products. Reporting to the Director Programmes, this role will collaborate in co-shaping EJC’s overall organisational strategy and theory of change.
• Designing formats, concepts and launch plans for online journalism events, workshops and training programmes that stand out and engage EJC’s community;
• Providing guidance to the team of project managers based on project goals and objectives;
• Proactively stay well informed, networked and abreast with key trends and players in the space;
• Oversee programme implementation by working closely with other Programme Leads on work planning, budgeting and tracking to ensure EJC has the capacity and resources to deliver its goals and impact;
• Provide technical input and strategic recommendations for programme design & proposal writing;
• Engage with EJC’s partners as required – providing programme updates and ensuring continuous & consistent building of trust based relationships with all partners and donors;
• Oversee and manage stakeholder relations, identify and recommend partnerships with relevant stakeholders to the leadership.

The EJC team currently consists of 16 people, with 8 staff members in the Programmes team and 3 freelance team members. You will be leading a team of, currently, 3 persons and providing mentoring, guidance, supervision, and professional development to staff. The majority of EJC’s team works from its office in Maastricht (The Netherlands).

To be able to carry out the position EJC asks you to work from the Maastricht office for at least two days a week.

What will you bring along:

• Very good understanding of the needs and challenges facing journalists and media organisations across Europe and good knowledge of the media landscape and journalism trends in Europe. Experience in organising events, online and in-person, is mandatory.
• A proven background, or strong, demonstrable interest, in journalism and in working with journalists and other media professionals
• Bachelor’s degree in journalism, communication or related field is required. Experience in public administration, education, social work, or a related field is an advantage;
• You are an innovator at heart. You are excited to inspire EJC in tweaking EJC’s approaches with the aim of creating more sustainable, transformative and impactful programmes;
• You are a natural relationship builder. You have experience in leading diverse teams, engaging community partners, and partnering with Directors;
• Experience in leading social impact programmes, from concept/design, to planning, to overseeing implementation, tracking, evaluating and reporting;
• Passion for EJC’s mission and purpose and commitment to the values of diversity, inclusiveness and empowerment;
• Excellent communication skills, both written and oral, with the ability to represent the EJC externally across a wide range of stakeholders and constituencies;
• A hands-on person who has demonstrated experience managing a team across multiple services to include professional development and mentorship and will support the team with the actual implementation of activities to EJC standards.
• Comprehensive working knowledge of programme planning, organisational structure, budgeting, administrative operations, and fundraising.
• Fluency in English. Knowledge of other EU languages is an advantage.

EJC’s offer:

• You have the opportunity to work with a professional, creative and highly-respected team in a diverse international environment;
• This position offers the chance to demonstrate leadership in a dynamic, high-profile and challenging role creating real impact;
• The gross salary will be appropriate to the role of a leading member, ranging between 3600 and 4050 euro, and will be agreed with you during the selection process;
• The EJC, based on a Dutch payroll, offers flexibility in working hours and a beautiful office in Maastricht (the Netherlands) and has a competitive package for holidays and benefits and a professional development budget. EJC reimburses travel costs up to a maximum.

EJC’s promise:

The European Journalism Centre wants to enhance the diversity of its workforce. EJC does not discriminate against anyone on the basis of age, gender, nationality, race or ethnic origin, religion, or sexual orientation. EJC encourages applications that can make the organisation a better reflection of global society. EJC is passionate about creating an inclusive team of employees, freelancers and partners that promotes and celebrates this rich diversity in everything EJC does.

To apply:

Please send a concise cover letter outlining your suitability for the position and your interest in supporting the EJC’s vision and strategy, as well as your CV.

Please note: this position is only open to EU citizens or individuals with an existing valid work permit for the EU.

You can address your cover letter and resume to the Director Programs & Impact, Vera Penêda. Please apply via the button below. Should you have any difficulties uploading your documents, please contact HR via recruitment@ejc.net. If you have questions about the position itself, please reach out to Vera at Peneda@ejc.net.

The first round of shortlisting will occur based on the documentation received from prospective candidates. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed, preferably in person, but if health regulations don’t allow it, via video conference.

The closing date for applications is 23 October 2022.

To apply, please click here.