[Hiring] Civil Society Lead @Thomson Reuters

Role Description

We are seeking a Civil Society Lead to join the Access to Law team in Spain (remote), reporting into the Head of Delivery, to lead innovation and thought leadership in our work protecting civil society in Europe and globally.

The Civil Society Lead will play a central role in shaping and delivering the Thomson Reuters Foundation’s work to strengthen civil society resilience and protect civic space, with a primary focus on Europe. The postholder will bring subject-matter expertise, strong networks and programme development experience to design practical support for civil society organisations operating under pressure.

Key responsibilities will include:

• Develop and implement TRF’s civic space strategy, ensuring it aligns with the Foundation’s vision and mission while translating emerging trends, partner insights and organisational priorities into a coherent portfolio of work.
• Build and strengthen the Thomson Reuters Foundation network of partners working to support civil society resilience and expand civic space, primarily in Europe.
• Provide subject-matter expertise on issues facing civil society organisations in Europe and globally, advising internal teams and contributing to external positioning.
• Convene CSOs, partners, and current and prospective funders to map solutions for protecting and expanding civic space and helping CSOs remain effective under pressure.
• Produce insights, learning products and guidance on civil society resilience and civic space, drawing on our partner networks, our programme delivery and emerging trends.
• Design and deliver innovative programming that responds to the legal, operational and organisational needs of civil society organisations.
• Work closely with TRF leadership to drive innovation, identify new opportunities, develop fundable propositions and support strategic growth in this area of work.

Qualifications

• 7+ years’ experience working within a CSO focusing on democracy and civic space, a funding organisation, or other international development actor.
• Experience with civic space issues and civil society resilience in Europe. Experience in Africa, especially Eastern and Southern Africa a plus.
• Existing network and contacts within the democracy, civic space or CSO-support spaces, especially within the European Union and Central and Eastern Europe, and proven experience of network building. Driving funded partnerships or working with funders is a plus.
• Strong awareness of legal and operational risks and needs of CSOs. Ideally, experience conducting capacity assessments and diagnostics for CSOs.
• Experience designing and delivering programming for civil society that responds to their needs.
• Proven project management skills and the ability to drive work independently and with minimal supervision.
• Experience of facilitating convenings and of public speaking.

Requirements

• Deadline for applications is 15 September 2026 at 11.59pm BST.

Benefits

• Flexibility & Work-Life Balance: Flex My Way is a set of supportive workplace policies designed to help manage personal and professional responsibilities, including work from anywhere for up to 8 weeks per year.
• Career Development and Growth: Continuous learning and skill development to prepare talent for tomorrow’s challenges.
• Industry Competitive Benefits: Comprehensive benefit plans including flexible vacation, Mental Health Days, access to the Headspace app, retirement savings, tuition reimbursement, and resources for wellbeing.
• Culture: Award-winning reputation for inclusion and belonging, flexibility, and work-life balance.
• Social Impact: Two paid volunteer days off annually and opportunities for pro-bono consulting projects and ESG initiatives.
• Making a Real-World Impact: Helping customers pursue justice, truth, and transparency.