Liaison Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) is an independent humanitarian organization that assists people forced to flee their homes due to conflict and disaster. Established in 1946, NRC has grown to employ approximately 15,000 staff members and operates in 40 countries worldwide. The organization is dedicated to providing life-saving and long-term assistance to millions of people each year, focusing on the rights and needs of refugees and internally displaced persons. NRC is committed to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated with respect and dignity, and fostering a culture of empowerment and responsibility at all levels.

Job Overview:
The Liaison Advisor position offers a unique opportunity to engage closely with government stakeholders and play a vital role in the humanitarian response and recovery efforts in Ukraine. The successful candidate will support the Country Management Group in enhancing and developing NRC's relationships with governmental stakeholders at various levels, including national, regional, and local authorities. This role involves networking, representing NRC in consultations and strategic meetings, and facilitating interactions with governmental entities. The Liaison Advisor will also provide strategic advice on aligning NRC's operations with government priorities, arrange meetings for senior management, and maintain a network for effective information sharing. Additionally, the role includes responsibilities related to reporting, document management, and compiling necessary reports for governmental stakeholders, ensuring that NRC's activities are well-coordinated and aligned with the needs of the Ukrainian government.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Liaison Advisor will be responsible for a range of key duties, including: providing regular internal briefings and strategic advice to NRC management for effective liaison and advocacy with the Ukrainian government and other stakeholders; establishing and maintaining close contacts with government officials and local authorities for information sharing; facilitating interactions with key local and national authorities to support partnership development; monitoring the political context in Ukraine as it relates to humanitarian response; supporting resource mobilization efforts by aligning NRC's programs with government priorities; liaising with relevant government officials on NRC's work; planning and facilitating meetings with government officials and NRC senior management; responding to inquiries from government officials; participating in working groups and consultations on development and emergency relief; supporting the development of MOUs and preparing public-facing documents; and compiling and submitting reports and analyses as authorized by management.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of 5 years of experience in liaison roles, particularly within humanitarian protection programs and policy advocacy. A proven track record of developing and implementing successful engagement strategies and risk assessments with governmental stakeholders is essential. Applicants should have a comprehensive understanding of the political and humanitarian context in Ukraine, along with in-depth knowledge of government structures and sub-national authorities. Familiarity with regulatory and policy activities related to resilience building, recovery, and development is also required. Strong experience in coordinating with government institutions and fostering effective partnerships is crucial, as well as the ability to respond accurately and timely to inquiries from government officials. Excellent leadership, communication, presentation, and negotiation skills are necessary, along with experience in complex and volatile contexts.

Educational Background:
The position requires candidates to have a relevant educational background, typically a degree in international relations, political science, humanitarian studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees may be preferred, particularly for candidates with extensive experience in humanitarian work or government relations.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 5 years of relevant experience working in liaison roles, particularly in contexts related to humanitarian protection programs and policy advocacy. Experience in developing and implementing engagement strategies with governmental stakeholders is essential, as well as familiarity with the political and humanitarian landscape in Ukraine.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian, both written and verbal, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of the Russian language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate communication with a broader range of stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, with a contract duration of 12 months. The role may require domestic travel within Ukraine, estimated at up to 30%. The salary will be based on the NRC Ukraine national grading structure, specifically at Grade

• NRC is an equal opportunities employer, committed to diversity and inclusion, and encourages applications from all qualified candidates. Applicants must be legally eligible to work in Ukraine, as NRC is unable to provide work permits or visa sponsorships for this position. Candidates are advised to attach copies of their academic and professional certificates when applying.