Regional Director

The Regional Director, Americas is a key leadership role within CPJ’s senior management team, responsible for overseeing and advancing press freedom efforts in the Americas. This includes advocacy, research, and direct support for journalists at risk. Reporting to the Chief Programs Officer, the Regional Director sets strategic direction for the region, leads a geographically dispersed team, and serves as CPJ’s principal representative in engagements with governments, international organizations, and civil society partners.

This role requires fluency in English and Spanish, extensive knowledge of regional press freedom challenges, and expertise in advocacy, crisis management, and stakeholder engagement. The position is based in New York or Washington, DC and requires 25% travel, including international trips.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement annual and multi-year strategic plans for research, advocacy, and journalist assistance.
• Identify emerging press freedom threats and propose strategic responses.
• Oversee the execution of regional initiatives within CPJ’s broader organizational strategy.
• Conduct high-level advocacy with regional authorities, including heads of state and international bodies.
• Represent CPJ in media appearances, conferences, and policy discussions.
• Advocate for the release of jailed journalists and action against impunity in journalist murders.
• Lead and mentor a regional team of part-time and full-time staff working across multiple time zones.
• Oversee recruitment, performance management, and professional development of team members.
• Ensure effective coordination with other CPJ teams and external partners.
• Direct regional research efforts on press freedom violations and emerging threats.
• Oversee reports, case tracking, and the use of CPJ’s CARTA knowledge management system.
• Use data insights to inform advocacy strategies.
• Manage the regional program’s budget, including travel and contractor expenses.
• Collaborate with finance and HR teams to ensure sound financial planning and resource allocation.

Required Qualifications

• 15+ years of experience in journalism, press freedom advocacy, or a related field.
• Fluency in English and Spanish (spoken and written).
• Deep understanding of press freedom challenges in the Americas.
• Extensive network of relationships with journalists, media organizations, and civil society actors in the region.
• Proven experience in advocacy, crisis response, and stakeholder engagement.
• Strong writing and reporting skills, with experience producing high-quality reports and statements.
• Ability to travel up to 25% internationally.
• Excellent interpersonal, negotiation, and conflict-resolution skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in Google Workspace applications.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Application Deadline: 24th, March 2025

For more details and to apply, click here.