Regional Thematic Specialist (Humanitarian Response and Recovery) (P)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM's mission is to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization is committed to ensuring a workplace where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration. IOM operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on various aspects of migration and humanitarian response.

Job Overview:
The Regional Thematic Specialist (Humanitarian Response and Recovery) will play a crucial role in advising and supporting the implementation of institutional policies from Headquarters (HQ) across Country Offices (COs) in the region. This position involves providing oversight, quality control, and thematic support to ensure consistent, cohesive, and quality evidence-based programming. The successful candidate will contribute to thought leadership on saving lives and protecting individuals on the move, driving solutions to displacement, and facilitating regular pathways for migration. The role also includes identifying regional opportunities and risks, fostering knowledge sharing, encouraging policy and research development, and supporting cross-thematic collaboration internally and externally. The Specialist will be the primary source of humanitarian response and recovery expertise and guidance for IOM teams and partners in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the DHRR Regional Thematic Unit (RTU) to deliver thematic guidance and technical support to COs in line with the strategic plan.
• Assist the Deputy Regional Director (DRD) for Operations by providing substantive inputs and articulating IOM's strategic plan to external stakeholders.
• Deliver technical assistance on thematic and cross-cutting priorities, coordinating crisis responses with HQ and COs.
• Provide thematic training and capacity building to COs and external partners.
• Develop and maintain partnerships with regional actors, including donors and international organizations, to promote IOM’s Strategic Plan.
• Advocate for programmatic priorities with donors, including the private sector.
• Facilitate project development and reporting processes in coordination with Regional Project Development Officers (RPDOs).
• Monitor and evaluate COs' thematic focal points, assessing challenges and opportunities.
• Provide oversight on risk management in coordination with the Risk and Compliance Officer. 1
• Contribute to knowledge sharing platforms and disseminate best practices related to DHRR. 1
• Provide thematic support and recommendations on policies and frameworks to COs and partners. 1
• Analyze and disseminate thematic data to inform strategic planning and programming. 1
• Convene a community of practice for thematic focal points in COs. 1
• Lead engagement in inter-regional initiatives and coordinate with HQ functional homes. 1
• Promote and integrate cross-cutting priorities in DHRR’s work. 1
• Manage the DHRR Regional Thematic Unit and oversee its responsibilities. 1
• Perform any other duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Social Science, or a related field from an accredited institution, along with at least seven years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with at least nine years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in humanitarian response and recovery, project development and management, thematic capacity building, and liaison. A minimum of five years' experience working in non-OECD countries managing humanitarian response and recovery projects is required. Experience in advocacy, resource mobilization, and working with governmental and diplomatic officials, as well as international organizations, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in designing and implementing capacity-building initiatives.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Social Science, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Alternatively, a University degree in the same fields with additional years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of humanitarian response and recovery in various contexts.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, specifically a minimum of seven years of relevant professional experience for candidates with a Master’s degree, or nine years for those with a University degree. Candidates should have a proven track record in humanitarian response and recovery, with at least five years of experience managing projects in non-OECD countries. Experience in advocacy, resource mobilization, and working with various stakeholders, including governmental and non-governmental organizations, is also necessary. The ability to design and implement capacity-building initiatives is a key requirement.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Working knowledge of another official UN language, such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for one year, with the possibility of extension. It is classified at the P-4 grade level and is intended for professional recruitment. The role requires international mobility, and any offer made is subject to funding confirmation. The selection process may also be used to fill similar positions in various duty stations. Candidates must be medically fit for appointment and meet any residency or visa requirements. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations, including discrimination and harassment. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.