Are you passionate about youth cooperation, regional development, and building strong partnerships that create meaningful opportunities for young people? The Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) is looking for an experienced Head of Local Branch Office (HLBO) in Serbia to lead its operations in Belgrade and strengthen youth cooperation, mobility, and exchange across the region.
This role is an opportunity to contribute to RYCO’s mission by leading local initiatives, building strategic partnerships, and supporting programs that promote reconciliation, intercultural understanding, and regional cooperation.
Position: Head of Local Branch Office in Serbia
Vacancy Ref: HR134
Type: 12 months, with the possibility of extension
Expected Start: January 2027
Status: Core Staff
Location: Belgrade, Serbia
Application Deadline: November 17, 2026
About the Role:
The Head of Local Branch Office (HLBO) will lead and represent RYCO in Serbia, overseeing the daily operations of the Local Branch Office and ensuring that its activities align with RYCO’s Strategic Plan.
The HLBO will be responsible for managing local programs, finances, and staff while developing partnerships with institutions, civil society organizations, donors, and other relevant stakeholders.
The position also plays an important role in identifying opportunities for regional cooperation, proposing new initiatives, and strengthening connections between RYCO’s local branch offices.
The position reports directly to the Secretary General.
Main Responsibilities:
- Lead and coordinate the daily operations of RYCO’s Local Branch Office in Serbia;
- Oversee financial planning, resource management, and local branch operations;
- Manage and support LBO staff, including recruitment, professional development, and performance objectives;
- Ensure the successful implementation of local programs and activities in line with RYCO’s strategic priorities;
- Monitor progress, report on program implementation, and coordinate with RYCO management;
- Ensure that local operations comply with relevant legal and regulatory requirements;
- Identify opportunities for cooperation and collaboration with other RYCO branch offices;
- Propose regional initiatives that support youth mobility, exchange, and reconciliation;
- Build and maintain strong relationships with local institutions, civil society organizations, donors, and other stakeholders;
- Support the development of new partnerships and cooperation opportunities.
What We’re Looking For:
We are looking for an experienced professional with strong leadership, strategic planning, and program management skills who can effectively represent RYCO, manage diverse teams, and contribute to regional youth cooperation.
Candidates must have citizenship of Serbia, a Master’s degree in humanities, social sciences, political sciences, or a related field, and at least eight years of relevant professional experience in senior program management positions within international, regional, governmental, or non-governmental organizations.
Strong knowledge of project management, grant writing, fundraising, monitoring and evaluation, and strategic program development is essential.
Candidates should also demonstrate excellent communication and interpersonal skills, experience managing large-scale programs and multicultural teams, and a solid understanding of the political, socio-economic, and interethnic dynamics of the Western Balkans.
Proficiency in English, strong drafting and presentation skills, and good knowledge of MS Office applications are required.
Experience with youth-focused projects, intercultural understanding, and reconciliation initiatives, as well as familiarity with EU, UN, and bilateral donor funding mechanisms, is also important.
Additional assets include:
- Knowledge of another Western Balkans language beyond the local language;
- A valid Category B driver’s license.
What We Offer:
- Impactful Work: Contribute to initiatives that promote youth cooperation, reconciliation, intercultural understanding, and mobility across the Western Balkans.
- Leadership Opportunity: Lead RYCO’s Local Branch Office in Serbia and contribute to the implementation of the organization’s strategic priorities.
- Regional Cooperation: Work closely with colleagues, institutions, civil society organizations, and partners from across the region.
- Strategic Engagement: Play an active role in developing partnerships, identifying new opportunities, and shaping initiatives that support young people and regional cooperation.
How to Apply:
To be considered for this position, please submit your application via Job Apply no later than November 17, 2026.
All applications MUST include:
- Application Form, completed in English;
- Europass CV, completed in English;
- Two written reference letters from previous employers, submitted in English.
In case you are selected for the next phase:
- A scanned copy of your academic qualification;
- A scanned passport copy.
Additional documents may be required from shortlisted candidates. Only finalists will be contacted for the next recruitment stage. The successful candidate will also be required to submit a criminal record check before being offered a contract with RYCO.