Join us

FES Philippines is looking for a motivated Program Manager with strong analytical skills for political developments in the Philippines as well as in the Asia-Pacific region, with a specific interest in foreign and security politics.

Who we are

The Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung (FES) is an independent, non-profit organization headquartered in Germany. FES in the Philippines runs activities that help to promote social justice and gender equality, shape the future of work, support policies to protect our climate, promote peace in the Philippines and strengthen international dialogue on geopolitical issues. At the heart of our work is our worldwide network of offices through which FES conducts educational and advisory activities, facilitating dialogues in over 100 countries. More information on our activities can be found here.

Your role and tasks

As the Project Manager for political affairs, you will be responsible for FES activities related to promoting progressive democracy, for both foreign- and security politics. You will contribute to the programmatic work liaising extensively with a wide range of FES partner organizations, including research and policy institutes, civil society organizations as well as government entities and political parties. Your tasks include conceptual and operational development of existing FES programs, shaping and organization of events such as conferences, workshops, seminars (in person, hybrid, online), the organization of programs for international delegations (translation and interpretation activities). In this role you will provide policy research and analytical work related to political developments in the Philippines and the Asia Pacific. You will also manage all related administrative procedures and budgetary aspects of your portfolio. This role reports directly to the Country Director.

Minimum requirements

• Master’s degree (or equivalent), preferably in Political Science, International Relations, Economics or related fields;
• Excellent command of written and spoken English. Command of the German language is desired but not mandatory;
• Minimum of three years of work experience in running projects in a related field;
• Sound knowledge of political, economic and social structures in the Philippines;
• Excellent interpersonal, intercultural and organizational skills and communication abilities;
• Keen news judgment and a passion for national and international politics;
• The ability to remain calm under pressure and to excel when facing a deadline in fast paced environments;
• Strong analytical, critical and strategic thinking;
• Attention to detail and dedication to precision;
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team;
• Ability and willingness to travel;
• Valid residence and work permit for the Philippines.

What we offer

• Competitive salary package incl. additional health benefits, paid sick days and holidays;
• Value-driven and highly motivated team;
• Mobile work: we work at least three days per week in the office and may work two days from an alternative work location;
• FES is proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and as an organization committed to diversity and the perspective of all voices, we consider applicants equally.

Are you interested? Please send your cover letter, CV and relevant supporting documents such as evidence of training and previous professional experience no later than 06 April 2024 to info.ph@fes.de. Please make sure to include the contact details for one reference person. Please use subject line “Program Manager Application First Name Last Name”. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, so prompt submission is advised.

How to apply for internships at the FES Philippines

FES Philippine regularly offers internships to young people, both local and international, with the condition that they have either completed at least the first three years of their studies or have recently graduated. We welcome individuals who would like to experience the working environment at a political foundation. 

A study background in political science, sociology, communications, economics or related areas of study has proven to be most advantageous. Those with interest in international cooperation and/or are engaged in socio-political organizations like trade unions, youth organizations, women’s organizations, and political parties are especially welcome to apply.

Applicants should be open-minded to local culture and be able to adapt to different situations and challenges.

Tasks and Terms

Apart from participation in seminars and workshops, research and writing of texts and papers, assistance in daily office work, it is possible to identify an area of particular interest. The duration of the internship should not be less than 3 months and should not be more than 6 months for foreign interns; and not be less than 1 month for local interns.

Due to internal regulations, FES cannot offer any compensation for the internship and any internship-related expenses.

Application

In order to arrange a possible assignment, the English application should be submitted well in advance. Thereby, the following items have to be included:

• Curriculum Vitae w/ passport photo
• Application letter with a statement of interest
• Subject areas and activities of particular interest
• Period of time and preferred dates for internship

Please send your application and the required documents by email to info.ph(at)fes.de and to coco.quimpo(at)fes.de. Moreover, applications should be emailed to FES prior to the target starting date of the internship ­­— at least six (6) months before for foreign interns, or at least one (1) month before for local interns.