The Istituto Affari Internazionali (International Affairs Institute) is an independent, private, non-profit think tank founded in 1965 on the initiative of Altiero Spinelli. It promotes knowledge and awareness of international politics and contributes to promoting European integration and multilateral cooperation. IAI is part of a wide network of think tanks and research institutes specialised in international relations. It interacts and cooperates with government, national, European and international institutions, think tanks, universities, companies, the media and civil society organizations.
IAI seeks a new Director who will report directly to the Board of Directors and the General Assembly. The successful candidate will share and promote the Institute’s founding values (“[…] advancement of European integration and human rights, international security and sustainable development through multilateral cooperation.” – Art.1 of the IAI Bylaws) and safeguard its integrity and independence. The ideal candidate should have strategic vision, public standing, social and managerial skills and a solid fundraising experience and track-record.
Key roles and responsibilities
- Assuming the legal representation of the Institute with regard to third parties (art. 8 of the IAI Bylaws)
- Developing and ensuring the implementation of a strategy aligned with IAI’s profile as an independent think tank, in collaboration with the Institute’s boards and staff
- Fostering relations with representatives of governments, institutions, the private sector, academia, and the media, both in Italy and abroad, to enhance IAI’s visibility and impact
- Providing effective fundraising
- Ensuring the financial sustainability of the Institute by overseeing the development and implementation of budget and reporting on this to the Board of Directors and the General Assembly
- Augmenting the membership base of approximately 500 members (both individuals and companies)
- Managing a staff of over 50 employees and collaborators, developing a high-performance team
- Ensuring the Institute’s compliance with all regulations governing its activities (transparency, workplace safety, data protection, etc.).
Experience and skills expected of the post holder
- A PhD in international studies
- 10 to 15 years of relevant experience, both in Italy and abroad, with at least 5 years in a managerial role
- Proven experience in fundraising and financial management
- Academic and policy-oriented publications on international affairs, in English and Italian, of a recognised high standard
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in both English and Italian.
- The successful candidate will need to reside in Rome.
The statutory term of office is three years, renewable twice for equivalent periods (Article 8.10 of the IAI Bylaws)