IMPS DIRECTOR

The United Nations affiliated University for Peace (UPEACE) welcomes applications for the position of Director of the Institute for Media, Peace and Security (IMPS), an autonomous centre operating within the framework of UPEACE. The director will be based in the Geneva office of UPEACE, and will be part of a unique university that functions as a global knowledge network, created by a General Assembly resolution of the United Nations two decades ago. The director will be responsible for the overall management of the IMPS and shall be responsible to the Vice Rector of UPEACE.

The objectives of the Institute for Media, Peace and Security (IMPS) are:

* To become a focus of information, knowledge and documentation on the role of the media in relation to violence, conflict, peace and security so as to develop a sound basis for teaching, policy and action;
* To support the development of high-quality, responsible, objective and free media in developing and developed countries through education and training to create and strengthen the skills and expertise required;
* To undertake research into the complex issues underlying the role of the media in relation to violence, conflict and the building of peace and security.

Duties of the Director of the IMPS will include:
* Coordinating the design, launching, follow-up and evaluation of all activities of the IMPS especially guiding:
* Development, implementation (through face-to-face and distance modes) and dissemination of professional short courses, modules, training programmes, and Master's degree courses related to media, peace and security;
* Monitoring of developments in the media in relation to potential conflicts in high-risk countries to provide early warning and insight into emerging problems;
* Researching and dissemination of information on the role of the media in relation to violence, conflict, peace and security, including developing case studies, lessons learned and best practice strategies for utilising the media to build peace.
* Managing linkages between the IMPS and the UPEACE academic and regional programmes;
* Managing the development and maintenance of relationships with partner institutions and networks;
* Fundraising for the programme in collaboration with UPEACE Headquarters in Costa Rica; and
* Reporting on activities of the programme to donors and other partners.

The director must hold earned academic credentials, management and administrative skills, have professional experience related to media, and demonstrate competency as a scholar. He/she should also have strong interpersonal skills and the capacity to build networks. Subject to negotiation, a contract shall be issued for an initial period of three years, with remuneration in line with international standards. Envisaged in the plans for the initial phase of the IMPS will be provision for secretarial/administrative support and a full-time programme officer to work alongside the director. As additional resources are secured, it is envisaged that the IMPS will develop into a center of excellence, acting as the hub for a dynamic network of partners collaborating on issues of media, peace and security.

To be considered for the position, please submit a letter of nomination or application and motivation, curriculum vitae, and the details for contacting four references, to: -

Mr. Georges Tsaï
Director for Planning and Development
University for Peace
P.O. Box 138-6100
San José
Costa Rica
Tel: (506) 205.9000
Fax: (506) 249.1929
E-mail: [email][email protected]

Application deadline: All applications must be received by 21 July 2004. Short-listed candidates may be requested to undergo telephone interviews, followed by face-to-face interviews. All candidates shall be informed of the status of their application at the latest by 19 September 2004.