Principal Adviser on Programmatic Strategic Planning and Fundraising

Principal Adviser on Programmatic Strategic Planning and Fundraising

Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)

August 27, 2025October 11, 2025WarsawPoland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) is a principal institution of the Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE), which was established to promote human rights, democracy, and the rule of law across its 57 participating States. ODIHR is actively involved in election observation, democratic development, and human rights initiatives. The organization operates in various countries, focusing on enhancing the implementation of human dimension commitments. The OSCE has a comprehensive approach to security that includes politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects, addressing a wide range of security-related concerns. The ODIHR is based in Warsaw, Poland, and aims to maintain effective leadership and oversight in accordance with the Common Regulatory Management System (CRMS).

Job Overview:
The Principal Adviser on Programmatic Strategic Planning and Fundraising will play a crucial role in advising the First director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Deputy Director of ODIHR on strategic planning and fundraising initiatives. This position requires a proactive approach to identifying and promoting best practices within ODIHR's work, contributing to strategic planning initiatives through thorough research and analysis. The incumbent will be responsible for researching extra-budgetary funding opportunities, particularly with non-traditional donors, and will work closely with various departments to build strategic partnerships with international organizations and NGOs. The role also involves maintaining comprehensive information on ODIHR's fundraising history and advising on the potential impacts of fundraising on programmatic activities. The successful candidate will contribute to the overall effectiveness of ODIHR's programs and projects, ensuring alignment with the organization's mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform the following duties:
  • Advise on ODIHR's fundraising efforts and approaches, ensuring alignment with organizational goals.
  • Research and identify extra-budgetary funding opportunities for all ODIHR programs and projects, focusing on non-traditional donors.
  • Collaborate with the Project Co-ordination Unit and programmatic departments to identify and build strategic partnerships with international organizations, NGOs, and coalitions for joint initiatives.
  • Maintain comprehensive information on ODIHR's fundraising history and opportunities, ensuring effective communication with relevant stakeholders.
  • Provide regular briefings and reports to the First Deputy Director regarding the potential impact of fundraising on programmatic activities.
  • Contribute to ODIHR's strategic planning through research and policy advice, identifying good practices and experiences in programmatic work.
  • Perform other related duties as assigned by supervisors, ensuring flexibility and responsiveness to organizational needs.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a second-level university degree in law, political or social science, or a related field, preferably with a specialization in international relations or public policy. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of relevant experience will also be accepted. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in diplomacy or international relations, particularly in human rights and democracy assistance. Experience in project management, especially with donor-funded projects in complex political contexts, is essential. Candidates should demonstrate thorough knowledge of the OSCE region and an understanding of the sensitivities surrounding human rights and democratization efforts. Strong gender awareness and the ability to integrate a gender perspective into tasks are also required.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a second-level university degree in law, political or social science, or a related subject. Candidates with a first-level university degree will be considered if they have two additional years of relevant experience. The preferred specialization is in international relations and/or public policy, which aligns with the strategic objectives of ODIHR.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of five years of professional experience in relevant fields, with seven years required if only holding a first-level university degree. This experience must include work in diplomacy or international relations, particularly in areas related to human rights and democracy assistance. Experience in managing projects, especially those funded by donors in sensitive political contexts, is highly desirable. A thorough understanding of the OSCE region and its dynamics is crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are mandatory for this position. Proficiency in Russian and/or other OSCE languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to ODIHR's mission effectively.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an international secondment, with a fixed-term contract type. The role is full-time, and the target start date is as soon as possible. The OSCE emphasizes diversity and inclusion within its workforce and encourages applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The maximum period of service in this post is 10 years, and candidates should be aware that OSCE officials must conduct themselves in a manner befitting their status as international civil servants. The OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process, and appointments are subject to medical clearance.
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