Head of REI (Research, Expertise & Influence)

Lead the Fight Against Child Exploitation as Head of Research, Expertise & Influence

About Terre des Hommes Netherlands

Terre des Hommes Netherlands (TdH NL) is committed to ending child exploitation in all its forms. We work across Africa and Asia, partnering with local organisations to protect children from trafficking, sexual exploitation, child labour, and other forms of child exploitation. Our work is grounded in evidence, child participation, and safeguarding principles.

The Role

We are seeking a visionary and strategic Head of Research, Expertise & Influence (REI) to lead our research, advocacy, and thought leadership agenda. This senior role ensures that TdH NL is recognised as an evidence-driven organisation that influences policy and practice to end child exploitation globally.

In this role you will set the vision for research and influencing, drive innovation, and ensure that evidence informs all aspects of our work. You will represent TdH NL externally, build alliances with donors, governments, and international agencies, and position the organisation as a trusted voice in child rights and protection.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a clear vision and strategy for research, expertise, and influence;
• Ensure integration of research and advocacy across programmes and organisational priorities;
• Drive innovation and risk management in research and influencing approaches;
• Promote a learning culture and ensure evidence informs programme design and policy engagement;
• Build strategic partnerships to mobilise resources and amplify impact.

External Representation and Advocacy

• Represent TdH NL in global research, advocacy, and policy fora;
• Engage with high-level stakeholders, donors, and governments to advance child rights;
• Deliver persuasive speeches and presentations to influence opinions and foster buy-in;
• Position TdH NL as a thought leader through publications, events, and networks.

Organisational and Staff Leadership

• Lead and develop the REI team, fostering collaboration and innovation;
• Ensure safeguarding and ethical standards are embedded across all activities;
• Promote cultural sensitivity and integrity in all engagements;
• Respond decisively to crises and manage risks to ensure organisational continuity.

What You Bring

• At least 10 years of relevant experience in research, advocacy, or influencing within international development or child rights sectors;
• Minimum 5 years of management experience in a (senior) leadership role;
• Proven ability to craft and deliver persuasive messages to diverse audiences;
• Strong track record in building alliances and partnerships for strategic influence;
• Deep commitment to safeguarding, ethics, and cultural awareness;
• Near-native English proficiency with excellent communication skills.

Competencies

• Visionary and strategic leadership
• Influence and advocacy at global level
• Evidence-driven decision-making
• Ethical and inclusive leadership
• Crisis and risk management
• Effective external representation
• Strategic resource mobilisation

What We Offer

• A key position within an international child rights organisation;
• An inspiring, mission-driven working environment;
• Opportunities to shape global engagement and drive systemic change;
• A market-competitive salary and secondary employment benefits.
• The salary scale for this position is scale 13 and, depending on experience, ranges from €5,013.90 to €6,717.60 gross per month for a full-time 36-hour workweek.
• 25 days of paid annual leave based on a full-time contract; pro rata for part-time employees;
• We work hybrid: 50% at the office and 50% from home. We are quite flexible and value your work-life balance;
• An office located in the vibrant heart of The Hague, the city of international human rights and the political capital;
• A commuting allowance for cycling kilometres or an NS public transport card;
• Our pension scheme is managed by ASR, with Terre des Hommes covering the majority of the pension contribution.

Interested?

If you have any questions, you can contact Rutger Prins directly at R.Prins@tdh.nl.