DCAF – Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance is dedicated to improving the security of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, respect for human rights, and gender equality. Since its founding in 2000, DCAF has contributed to making peace and development more sustainable by assisting partner states, and international actors supporting these states, to improve the governance of their security sectors through inclusive and participatory reforms. It creates innovative knowledge products, promotes norms and good practices, provides legal and policy advice, and supports capacity‐building of both state and non‐state security sector stakeholders.

DCAF’s Foundation Council brings together representatives of over 40 countries. Active all over the world, DCAF is internationally recognized as one of the world’s leading centres of excellence for security sector governance (SSG). DCAF is guided by the principles of human rights-based approach with gender equality at its core, democratic governance, impartiality and national ownership. For more information, visit www.dcaf.ch and follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) @DCAF_Geneva.

The Gender and Security Division (GSD) leads DCAF’s work promoting gender equality in security sector reform and governance by providing policy advice, conducting practical research and implementing operational projects. The Division has 14 full- and part-time staff members and we are looking for an experienced, dynamic, and creative individual to be our next:

Programme Manager, Gender and Security (80-100%)

Location: Geneva, with travel to different regions of the world

Starting date: August 2025 or as agreed

Duration: Indefinite contract

The role

Under the supervision of the Head or Division, the Programme Manager will develop, lead, implement and coordinate complex projects for the Gender and Security Division, on intersectional approaches to policy development and applied research as well as operational, country-specific projects, working collaboratively with other DCAF Entities and external partners. The role may also involve coordinating gender assessments, policy and methodology analysis, leading training and capacity building activities and promoting gender mainstreaming throughout DCAF’s work. This position requires deep knowledge and expertise in gender and security, gender mainstreaming and applied intersectional approaches as well as strong interpersonal and project management skills.

Key areas of operation:

• Develop, lead, coordinate and implement both operational and research-related projects and activities in the broad area of gender and security with a focus on intersectionality
• Lead in the design, organization and implementation of activities with various partners, including policy development and dissemination, training, conferences, assessments, cutting-edge research in the field of gender and security
• Develop, lead, coordinate and implement monitoring and evaluation – including of budgets and financial aspects – of projects and activities related to gender and security
• Design and / or deliver training both internally and to external stakeholders, both on mainstreaming methodology and on gender and security.

Your experience

• Master’s degree or equivalent professional experience in international affairs, governance, development, security studies, gender studies, or related disciplines.
• At least five years of professional experience in the field of gender equality, and/or women, peace and security.
• Excellent knowledge of the gender and security normative and policy framework as well as of security sector governance and reform.
• Experience in developing and leading applied research and/or operational projects, including budget and financial management, on gender equality and security, women, peace and security, and/or related fields.
• Proven experience supporting gender mainstreaming and intersectional approaches in operational as well as policy development activities.
• Proven experience developing and delivering education and training packages on gender and security, gender and justice, gender-based bias, intersectionality, or related topics, for security and justice personnel.
• Proven versatile team player, with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Proven personal commitment to principles of gender equality and diversity.
• Excellent writing and editing skills in English and French. Other languages a plus.

We offer

• a rewarding, dynamic and challenging work experience
• the chance to be part of a multicultural team of supportive, hardworking and values-driven people
• the chance to contribute to improving gender equality and intersectional approaches in the security sector and security provision of states and their people within a framework of democratic governance, the rule of law, and respect for human rights.

How to Apply:

If you think you are a good match for DCAF and the position advertised, please apply online by 28 April 2025, enclosing:

• a one-page motivational statement in English describing your relevant experience and what you can bring to DCAF
• a concise CV (maximum two pages)
• a copy of your diplomas and work certificates (in one pdf document).

DCAF is committed to equality of opportunity and encourages applications from all qualified candidates regardless of sex, age, disability, gender identity, religion, or ethnicity.

DCAF is bound by the legal requirements and regulations regarding the issuance of work permits of the jurisdictions in which we operate.

DCAF participates in The Misconduct Disclosure Scheme. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms his/her understanding of these recruitment procedures.