Humanitarian Diplomacy and Advocacy Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
Plan International is an independent development and humanitarian organization that focuses on advancing children's rights and equality for girls. Established over 85 years ago, Plan International operates in more than 80 countries, striving to create a just world where every child can thrive. The organization believes in the potential of every child, particularly girls, who are often the most affected by poverty, violence, exclusion, and discrimination. Plan International works collaboratively with children, young people, supporters, and partners to tackle the root causes of challenges faced by vulnerable children, ensuring their rights are upheld from birth to adulthood. The organization is committed to driving changes in practice and policy at local, national, and global levels, leveraging its extensive reach, experience, and knowledge to transform lives and advocate for equality.

Job Overview:
The Humanitarian Diplomacy and advisor" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Advocacy Advisor position is pivotal in advancing Plan International's humanitarian strategy, which emphasizes the importance of saving lives and alleviating human suffering. This role is essential for influencing humanitarian policy and advocacy efforts in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somaliland. The advisor will be responsible for developing and implementing humanitarian policy and advocacy positions related to conflicts and crises in these regions. This position requires strong leadership and coordination skills to support country and sub-regional activities, ensuring that Plan International's humanitarian profile is strengthened and that support is mobilized effectively to meet the needs of children and crisis-affected populations. The advisor will also engage with external forums to represent the organization and its humanitarian efforts, making this role critical for the organization's influence and effectiveness in humanitarian action.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Humanitarian Diplomacy and Advocacy Advisor will be tasked with a variety of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the development and implementation of advocacy strategies related to humanitarian crises in Sudan, South Sudan, and Somaliland; coordinating humanitarian diplomacy efforts across the organization; engaging with humanitarian peers and stakeholders to strengthen partnerships; providing guidance and support to Plan International teams and partners in the region; ensuring strong representation in external forums; analyzing humanitarian issues and presenting clear recommendations; and mobilizing support for advocacy initiatives. The advisor will also be expected to travel frequently to fragile areas affected by humanitarian crises, including armed conflict, to assess needs and coordinate responses effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for this position must demonstrate extensive experience in humanitarian policy, advocacy, and diplomacy, with a proven track record of developing successful advocacy strategies. Previous experience working in conflict-affected areas is mandatory, along with a solid understanding of the Children and Armed Conflict (CAAC) mandate. Familiarity with the humanitarian system, including inter-agency coordination mechanisms, is also required. Candidates should possess strong networking and negotiation skills, the ability to analyze complex information, and the competency to provide strategic direction and recommendations for advocacy efforts. A deep understanding of International law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Humanitarian Law (IHL) is essential, as well as a demonstrable knowledge of current humanitarian issues and relevant legal and policy frameworks.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent experience in fields such as International Humanitarian Law, international relations, humanitarian policy, diplomacy, humanitarian action, or human rights is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the legal frameworks that govern it.

Experience:
Candidates should have significant experience in humanitarian advocacy and policy, ideally at the regional level or in multi-country crises. Experience in developing and implementing advocacy strategies in challenging environments is crucial, as is a history of successful engagement with various stakeholders in the humanitarian sector. Previous roles should reflect a commitment to humanitarian principles and a deep understanding of the challenges faced by children and vulnerable populations in crisis situations.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, given the international nature of the role and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the regions of Sudan, South Sudan, and Somaliland would be considered an asset, enhancing the advisor's ability to engage with local communities and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is part of a global search and can be based in either Somalia or South Sudan. A competitive salary and relocation package will be provided if necessary. The closing date for applications is 10th August 2025, with anticipated first-round interviews scheduled for 21st and 22nd August, and final round interviews on 28th August. Plan International is committed to equality, diversity, and inclusion, ensuring that its workforce reflects the communities it serves. The organization emphasizes the importance of safeguarding children and young people, conducting thorough pre-employment checks in line with its policies. Candidates should be aware that Plan International will never request payment during the recruitment process.