Advocacy and Policy Development Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations University (UNU) is a global think tank and postgraduate teaching organization established within the United Nations System. Its mission is to engage in policy-relevant research, capacity development, and knowledge dissemination to further the purposes and principles of the United Nations. Over the past fifty years, UNU has become a significant source of impartial research focusing on sustainability, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">human security, and economic development. With hundreds of researchers operating across 12 countries, UNU's expertise encompasses the full range of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals, generating knowledge that informs policy and drives positive global change. The organization collaborates closely with other UN entities and leading research institutions worldwide, emphasizing its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges.

Job Overview:
The Advocacy and Policy Development Associate will work under the guidance of the Director of UNU-INWEH and collaborate closely with the Office of the Director team. This role is pivotal in providing operational and substantive support to various institutional initiatives, policy processes, advocacy efforts, and partnership activities. The incumbent will be instrumental in knowledge creation and the preparation of policy documents that enhance the Institute’s engagement in global policy outreach and advocacy, particularly in relation to the upcoming 2026 and 2028 UN Water Conferences. Responsibilities include drafting, reviewing, and organizing policy and advocacy products, supporting event planning and logistics, and facilitating effective communication with partners and stakeholders. The position requires a proactive approach to coordinating policy-related engagements and activities, ensuring alignment with institutional standards and partner priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support policy development and advocacy efforts by coordinating with partners on UN policy processes relevant to water, environment, and health. This includes preparing and drafting documentation, concept notes, policy documents, and correspondence.
• Coordinate communication and support knowledge building, advocacy efforts, and public engagement by creating content for webpages and policy documents, preparing communication packages, and developing advocacy materials.
• Facilitate coordination within networks and partnerships to advance research and policy dialogue, manage priorities and workflow of the Policy and Partnership Team, and support the organization of policy-related events and workshops.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Director, ensuring timely and effective operation of the Director’s office and contributing to the positive reputation of UNU-INWEH.

Required Qualifications:

• A Master’s Degree in Business or Public Administration, Environmental Sciences, Political Science, International Relations, Social Sciences, or relevant fields related to the position responsibilities.
• A minimum of one year of relevant professional experience in coordination, policy support, and/or outreach, preferably within an international organization.
• Proficiency in using office software packages (MS Word, Excel, etc.) and experience in writing policy briefs, concept notes, and publications.
• Understanding of policy processes and governance issues, with demonstrated ability to learn and adapt in dynamic environments.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multi-cultural environment.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Master’s Degree in relevant fields such as Business or Public Administration, Environmental Sciences, Political Science, International Relations, or Social Sciences. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of policy development and advocacy in the context of water, environment, and health.

Experience:
The position requires at least one year of relevant professional experience following the completion of the Master’s degree. This experience should ideally be in coordination, policy support, or outreach roles, particularly within international organizations. Candidates should demonstrate familiarity with policy processes and governance-related issues, as well as the ability to draft and finalize legal documents and contracts for formal partnerships.

Languages:
Fluency in both written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in French is desired, and knowledge of another UN official working language is considered an asset. This linguistic proficiency is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of the United Nations.

Additional Notes:
The successful candidate will be employed under a Personnel Service Agreement (PSA) contract, which offers an attractive compensation package including a tax-exempt salary based on experience and qualifications. Benefits include 30 days of annual leave and a health insurance scheme. The initial contract duration is one year, with the possibility of renewal based on performance and organizational needs. The combined duration on a PSA contract with UNU may not exceed six years, and the mandatory retirement age for PSA holders is 65 years. The starting date for this position is set for January 2, 202

• Applications must be submitted by November 16, 2025, by 11:59 PM EDT, and late submissions will not be accepted. UNU is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from all backgrounds.