Job Overview
The Executive Director Opportunity at Human Rights Watch (HRW)
Spencer Stuart is proud to partner with Human Rights Watch (HRW) in the search for a new Executive Director. The next Human Rights Leader HRW will serve as the public face of the organization, championing human rights on the world stage. This is a preeminent leadership opportunity at a time of extraordinary global challenges.
As the Human Rights Leader for this independent international organization, you will be responsible for all strategic, programmatic, financial, and operational aspects of HRW. You will work closely with a high-functioning leadership team and a dedicated global staff of approximately 500 people. For this reason, the role of Executive Director is crucial to the organization’s success.
The Leadership Opportunity for a Human Rights Leader
The next Executive Director will influence institutions of justice and civil society while leading HRW’s mission to investigate abuses, expose facts, and pressure those in power to secure justice.
Key Priorities for the Human Rights Leader:
- Strategy & Leadership: Shape and guide the organization’s strategy to meet evolving challenges. Uphold HRW’s reputation for research excellence and maintain its leadership role in the human rights movement.
- Programmatic Oversight: Support and steer the programmatic work of HRW’s talented staff, many of whom are well-known figures in the human rights movement.
- Fundraising: Work closely with the development team to enhance donor relationships, broaden the base of philanthropic support, and mobilize funding resources.
- Organizational Health: Focus on organizational leadership to enable efficiency, effective decision-making, and ensure the long-term health of the organization regarding financial, legal, and reputational risks.
- Culture: Foster a culture of collaboration, teamwork, and mutual respect among diverse, geographically dispersed teams.

Remote Executive Director
Candidate Profile for the Executive Director
We seek a Human Rights Leader who is a bold, strategic, and inspirational communicator.
Ideal Experience for the Executive Director:
- Human Rights Expertise: Demonstrated commitment to the human rights field or a related sector is essential.
- Strategic Leadership: Proven experience in developing long-term strategies and leading large, complex organizations through change.
- External Engagement: Exceptional oral and written communication skills with the ability to serve as the organization’s spokesperson to governments, media, donors, and the public.
- Resource Development: A track record of securing significant philanthropic support or a clear vision for how to achieve global fundraising goals.
- Inclusive Leadership: Demonstrated ability to recruit, retain, and lead a diverse, high-performing global team.
- Board Experience: Familiarity with collaborating effectively with an engaged board of directors.
Compensation & Application
The estimated annual salary for this position is $475,000 – $535,000. HRW offers a competitive compensation package, and citizens of all nationalities are encouraged to apply.
To apply or nominate a candidate, please email: [email protected]
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Apply here: https://www.indeed.com/q-ngo-l-remote-jobs.html?vjk=b6dca4c89a22c4aa
FAQs for Human Rights Leader
Q: Where is this position located? A: Candidates can be based in New York City or another city with an HRW office. The role requires frequent global travel.
Q: What is the application deadline? A: The application deadline is listed as “Open Until Filled.”
Q: What is the annual salary range? A: The annual salary range for the Human Rights Leader is estimated to be between $475,000 and $535,000.