Director of Advocacy, UK & Commonwealth

Everyone says they want to change the world. We're looking for people who actually will. 

ADF International is a faith-based legal advocacy organization that protects fundamental freedoms and promotes the inherent dignity of all people. Please visit our career site to view our Statement of Faith and Doctrinal Distinctives.

Director of Advocacy, UK & Commonwealth

This position requires at least 2 years of experience managing or leading a small legal team.

ADF International is looking for a Director of Advocacy, UK & Commonwealth,  to join us full-time in our London, UK office. As the Director of Advocacy, UK & Commonwealth, you are a vital part of ADF International. In this role, you will report to the Director of Advocacy and lead the UK & Commonwealth Advocacy Team, based in the London office. You are responsible for leading the advocacy strategy for the UK and Commonwealth without substantial oversight. You will work with and through your team to engage in legal advocacy, litigation, and public advocacy before law-making bodies to set the strongest precedents in pursuit of our mission. You will develop legal strategies, draft legal documents and work with allies and other stakeholders in a range of settings. You will work closely with our communications and development teams to ensure the success of our advocacy.

Your Essential Responsibilities:

In this position you will:

1. Lead, manage, recruit, and develop the UK & Commonwealth advocacy team to achieve ADF International objectives.
2. Serve as part of the senior legal team of ADF International.
3. Engage in legal advocacy in pursuit of ADF International objectives:
   • Develop and implement strategies in pursuit of agreed generational wins in the UK.
   • Lead, join, or assist in efforts to establish positive precedents and laws at the highest available courts and law-making institutions.
   • Cultivate a network of meaningful relationships with key stakeholders including lawyers, parliamentarians, advisors, and civil servants.
4. Identify, mobilize, and train others in support of the ADF International mission:
   • Provide training on ADF International issues both internally and externally.
   • Work to identify and recommend for training candidates of the highest caliber.
5. Engage with the media, thought leaders, academics, and other audiences by:
   • Completing media interviews and acting as a spokesperson for ADF International.
   • Researching and publishing short and extended pieces in support of ADF International objectives.
   • Cooperate with the Development team as required in support of fundraising efforts.

As a Team Leader, you will:

• Act as a servant leader by training, encouraging, coaching, and developing your Team Members.
• Foster a spirit of trust and of innovation on your team.
• Meet regularly with your Direct Reports to discuss their progress and complete performance reviews.
• Approve PTO requests, time cards, and expense reports.

Other Responsibilities (Non-Essential):

• You will be asked to perform related duties or special projects as assigned.

Skills You Need to Succeed:

Demonstrated proficiency in:

• Legal writing, analysis, and strategy.
• Policy analysis and development within complex political contexts.
• Alliance-building, networking, and relationship development both in respect to development and advocacy work.
• Capacity to handle multiple complex matters working with a multi-disciplinary team.
• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written in a variety of legal and non-legal settings.
• Clear leadership skills.
• Excellent organizational skills.
• Strong attention to detail and proven project management skills.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Office.

Ability to:

• Fluent in English.
• Prioritize and achieve goals.
• Work within, motivate and lead, and initiate new ideas within a team.
• Perform in high pressure situations.
• Travel internationally, sometimes at short notice.
• Live and work in London, UK.

Knowledge of:

• UK Law: ideally human rights law, criminal law, public law, or employment law.
• Running successful advocacy campaigns.

Education and/or experience:

• Qualified barrister or solicitor (UK).
• At least 2 years of experience in legal team leadership.
• 8+ years of relevant experience in strategic litigation, work experience within ADF International mission areas, policy, and legislative advocacy.
• Advantageous: Legal experience across more than one Commonwealth jurisdiction.

Valid work permit for the UK or UK citizenship required.

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