UN Partnerships Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system and ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Group's objectives. The DCO's recalibration in 2026 aimed to optimize support for the 2030 Agenda, emphasizing data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The Partnerships Officer position is integral to this mission, providing strategic advice and support for partnerships aimed at achieving the SDGs.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer is responsible for providing substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UN partnerships with various stakeholders, including government entities, development partners, civil society, and the private sector. This role involves leading the development of the UN Partnership Strategy, monitoring its implementation, and ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The officer will also engage with external stakeholders, identify risks and opportunities related to partnerships, and support the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team (UNCT) in resource mobilization initiatives. The position requires a proactive approach to building partnerships that drive financing for development and enhance the UN's engagement with diverse stakeholders to achieve the SDGs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UN partnerships, including leading the development of the UN Partnership Strategy and monitoring its implementation.
• Conduct liaison and coordination with UN entities and external stakeholders to package and define value propositions for partnerships.
• Identify risks and opportunities related to partnerships and suggest mitigation measures.
• Support the development and implementation of resource mobilization strategies for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
• Monitor and analyze existing resource mobilization partnerships and relationships.
• Advise on partnership opportunities to drive financing for development.
• Contribute to knowledge management and capacity development relating to partnerships and resource mobilization.
• Collaborate with the Data Analyst and Communications officers on data analysis and reporting.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to conduct independent research and analysis. They should demonstrate professionalism, effective planning and organizing skills, and strong communication abilities. The role requires a commitment to gender perspectives and the equal participation of women and men in all areas of work. Candidates should also be able to develop clear goals, prioritize activities, and allocate resources efficiently.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, sustainable development, social sciences, education, or a related area is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in strategic support to partnerships, project/programme management, and resource mobilization in development cooperation is required. Candidates should have experience in developing strategic partnerships across various sectors, designing and implementing partnerships, and preparing project proposals. Experience in promoting gender equality, youth participation, and inclusion of persons with disabilities is desirable, as is experience in UN interagency coordination and financing of SDGs.

Languages:
English and Arabic are required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for both languages. French is also a working language of the UN, but proficiency in French is not mandatory for this position.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position available for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The appointment is subject to budgetary approval and availability of the post. The position is open to nationals of Saudi Arabia only, and candidates must have national experience or knowledge of the national language and culture. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The UN Secretariat is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its workforce.