Location: Kyiv, Ukraine Full-time position, with national travel. Reports to the Country Director – Ukraine (based in Lund, Sweden). Start date as soon as possible.
The Raoul Wallenberg Institute of Human Rights and Humanitarian Law (RWI), an independent academic institution based in Sweden, has recently launched a long-term programme in Ukraine. As part of this important initiative, we are now seeking a Deputy Country Director to help lead and coordinate our operations on the ground.
This is a unique opportunity to contribute to Ukraine’s ongoing transformation by strengthening human rights, democratic governance, and the rule of law. RWI’s programme is founded on strong partnerships, local engagement, and sustainable change.
In May 2025, RWI signed a strategic agreement with the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (Sida) to implement the “Human Rights Infrastructure for Ukraine 2025–2027” (HRIU) project. This initiative aims to strengthen Ukraine's human rights protections as the country advances in its reconstruction and European Union accession process, particularly focusing on judiciary and fundamental rights requirements. The HRIU project builds upon RWI engagement in Ukraine, including projects supported by the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Swedish Institute.
We are also recruiting Programme Officers and Programme Associates in Kyiv, as well as a full-time Country Director and a Finance and Administration Officer in Lund who will support the Ukraine programme on part-time.
As Deputy Country Director, you will:
- Support the implementation and strategic development of RWI’s programme in Ukraine.
- Oversee daily operations of the Kyiv office, ensuring coordination, quality, and efficiency.
- Manage staff and resources in line with international and institutional standards.
- Represent RWI in national and international forums, and maintain relationships with key stakeholders.
- Identify new opportunities and partnerships to enhance the impact of the programme.
- Report to the Country Director – Ukraine, who is based in Lund, Sweden.
Required qualifications and experience:
- Minimum 5–7 years of experience in human rights, rule of law, or international development programmes.
- Proven ability to lead teams and coordinate complex projects
- Strong knowledge of international human rights standards and development cooperation methods
- Fluency in Ukrainian and English (spoken and written)
- University degree in law, international relations, or a related field
- Excellent communication, strategic thinking, and interpersonal skills
- Cultural sensitivity and a high sense of responsibility.
We offer a meaningful and challenging leadership role in a respected international organisation, where your work will directly contribute to justice and rights for all.
How to apply: Submit your application no later than 8 June, including a cover letter and CV.
For inquiries regarding the position, please contact Deputy Director Operations Jason Naum at jason.naum@rwi.lu.se.
For more information on the HRIU project and RWI's partnership with Sida, please refer to the official press release: 🔗 Press Release: Historic Partnership to Strengthen Ukraine’s Human Rights Infrastructure toward EU Accession (https://rwi.lu.se/news/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)
Jason Naum