Job Description

Founded in 2002, TRIAL International is a non-governmental organization fighting impunity for international crimes and supporting victims in their quest for justice. The organization takes an innovative approach to the law, paving the way to justice for survivors of unspeakable suffering. With offices in Geneva, Bosnia-Herzegovina and the Democratic Republic of Congo, TRIAL International provides legal assistance, litigates cases, develops local capacity, and pushes the human rights agenda forward.
In order to strengthen the structure of the organization, we are looking for a motivated and experienced Director of Operations, a full-time position based in Geneva.
The overall mission of this position is to ensure the implementation and coherence of all TRIAL International's operational activities through a global, organizational approach, in close collaboration with the Executive Director, the External Relations and the Finance and Administration Departments. As a member of the Management Team, where she represents all operational programs, the Director of Operations contributes to the successful management of a dynamic organization.
YOUR MISSION

• To contribute, as a member of TRIAL International's Management Team, to collective leadership, and organizational coherence, and ensure that operational realities and challenges are effectively brought into management-level discussions.
• To manage the implementation of TRIAL International's strategic plan within all operations, by translating the strategic orientations defined by the Executive Director into operational plans, priorities and processes. You will ensure the coordination, review and evaluation of annual planning (operational plans, budgets and human resources), and that efficient processes are in place. You will address potential operational challenges, translate programmatic needs into fundraising inputs, and supervise the conceptualization and operationalization of new activities.
• To supervise and coach a highly motivated team of heads of program and other functions trough effective and collaborative leadership, support and guidance, and clear definition of roles and responsibilities. You will foster an open and creative organizational culture among employees and promote transversality and synergies by engaging in internal communication and coordination among programs, and departments. You ensure the continuous development of skills, definition of objectives and evaluation of their achievement amongst the operational team.
• To ensure the capitalization of best practices and encourage continuous learning contributing to the effectiveness and efficiency of TRIAL International's activities. You will design, implement and oversee institutional policies, as well as the standardisation, implementation and continuous improvement of internal procedures and project management tools, in particular with regard to MEAL (monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning).
• To contribute to the organization's physical and digital security and support relevant staff in risk management by developing and monitoring policies and procedures that ensure that operational risks are minimized. You will supervise the implementation of security protocols adapted to the context of each operational program and consolidate processes related to duty of care.

YOUR PROFILE

• At least 10 years of relevant experience, including confirmed experience in a leadership role in an NGO with international dimension. Previous experience in the human rights field is a strong asset.
• Awareness of operational management within a small organization and, ideally, previous experience in organizational management.
• Field experience and/or knowledge of security frameworks and procedures.
• Solid experience in managing large donor-funded projects, including budgeting, financial management and audits as well as monitoring and evaluation.
• Passionate about human rights and strong identification with TRIAL International's mission.
• Proficiency in French and English is a must, other languages are an asset.

YOUR SKILLS

• Excellent planning and organizational skills and track-record of successful development and implementation of efficient internal procedures and policies.
• Proven ability to set clear priorities, handle challenging workloads and multiple deadlines.
• Demonstrated interpersonal, managerial and communication skills: capacity to effectively lead and manage a diverse team, to provide strategic direction, motivate staff and as well as the capability to work transversally in a complex environment.
• Capacity to find innovative and creative solutions and to operate in a dynamic and changing environment.
• Hands-on approach and strong problem-solving skills, ability and willingness to deliver practical support to teams.
• Highly developed written and oral communication, negotiation and interpersonal skills.

To be considered for this position, you must either be a Swiss national, a citizen of the European Union or EFTA, or hold a valid work permit for Switzerland.
WHAT WE OFFER
An exciting and varied opportunity in a dynamic organization in full development and within a committed and motivated team.

• Reporting to: Executive Director
• Workplace: Geneva, Switzerland
• Workload: Full-time position (40h/week)
• Type of contract: Permanent contract
• Start date: 1 May 2026 (or upon agreement)

The conditions of employment offered correspond to those in force in the NGO sector, with 5 weeks annual leave and flexible working arrangements.

Skills Required