Head of Unit – Outreach and Engagement at the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE): Senior EU Leadership Opportunity in Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement @the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE): Senior EU Leadership Opportunity in Strategic Communication and Stakeholder Engagement

The European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) is currently inviting applications for the prestigious position of Head of Unit – Outreach and Engagement (Temporary Agent, AD10). This high-level role represents one of the most influential communication and stakeholder engagement leadership positions within the European Union’s institutional ecosystem. Based in Vilnius, Lithuania, this opportunity is designed for senior professionals with extensive experience in strategic communication, public affairs, and leadership within complex international environments.

The application window opens on 30 April 2026 and closes on 1 June 2026 at 13:30 (Europe/Vilnius time). Successful candidates will be placed on a reserve list for future recruitment.

About the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE)

The European Institute for Gender Equality is a decentralized agency of the European Union dedicated to strengthening gender equality across Europe. The agency plays a crucial role in producing reliable data, research, and methodological tools that support EU institutions and Member States in integrating gender equality into policymaking.

EIGE also promotes knowledge exchange, stakeholder dialogue, and awareness-raising activities to ensure gender equality remains a central policy priority within the European Union.

Role Overview: Head of Unit – Outreach and Engagement

The Head of Unit – Outreach and Engagement is a senior leadership role reporting directly to the Director of EIGE. The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a multidisciplinary team of approximately 18 professionals covering communications, stakeholder relations, digital engagement, media relations, knowledge management, and capacity-building initiatives.

This role is central to positioning EIGE as the leading EU authority on gender equality and ensuring that its research outputs, data, and policy recommendations effectively reach decision-makers, institutions, and the wider public.

Key operational areas include:

• Strategic communication planning and execution
• EU-wide stakeholder engagement and institutional relations
• Media relations and reputational management
• Knowledge dissemination and impact monitoring
• Coordination of EU Council Presidency-related communication
• Oversight of the Brussels Liaison Office
• Management of publications and digital communication channels
• Implementation of international cooperation programmes such as IPA

Key Responsibilities

The Head of Unit will be expected to:

• Develop and implement EIGE’s overarching communication and engagement strategy aligned with EU gender equality priorities
• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary communication and outreach unit
• Strengthen institutional relations with EU bodies including the European Commission, European Parliament, and Council
• Oversee high-level media relations and strategic communication responses
• Ensure visibility and dissemination of EIGE’s research and policy outputs
• Manage financial, procurement, and budgetary responsibilities in compliance with EU regulations
• Coordinate stakeholder engagement across Member States, civil society, and international partners
• Represent EIGE in high-level meetings, conferences, and strategic events
• Drive innovation in digital communication and knowledge management systems
• Support organizational change, leadership development, and performance excellence within the unit

Required Qualifications and Experience

Applicants must meet strict eligibility and professional requirements, including:

• A completed university degree of at least 4 years (or equivalent with relevant experience)
• At least 12 years of professional experience, including 6 years in management roles
• Proven experience in strategic communication, public affairs, or stakeholder engagement at EU or international level
• Strong understanding of EU institutions, decision-making processes, and policy frameworks
• Established media relations experience and professional networks
• Excellent written and spoken English (working language of the agency)
• Strong leadership, diplomacy, and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to manage large teams, budgets, and complex projects under pressure

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Background in communications, journalism, European studies, or related fields
• Experience in EU or international advocacy environments
• Understanding of gender equality and non-discrimination policies
• Experience working in multicultural and multidisciplinary teams

Working Environment and Benefits

The position is based in Vilnius, Lithuania, a modern, safe, and highly livable European capital. The role offers:

• A competitive EU AD10 salary (approx. €11,000+ monthly gross depending on experience)
• Tax-free EU remuneration structure
• Flexible working arrangements including telework
• Access to continuous professional training and development
• Multicultural working environment
• Family support allowances and social benefits
• High-level exposure to EU policymaking and institutional networks

Selection Process

The recruitment process includes:

• Eligibility screening
• Evaluation by selection committee
• Written tests and competency assessments
• Structured interviews in English
• Reference and background checks

Successful candidates will be placed on a reserve list valid for 12 months, with potential extension.

Important notes:

• No supporting documents are required at initial application stage
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• False information leads to disqualification

Deadline

1 June 2026 at 13:30 (Europe/Vilnius time)

APPLY HERE

For more information on this opportunity,click here

For more global opportunities,click here.