Government Liaison Associate

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• Its mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members dedicated to helping those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works to provide protection, assistance, and solutions for refugees and displaced persons, advocating for their rights and working with governments and partners to find durable solutions.

Job Overview:
The Government Liaison Associate plays a crucial role within the Government Liaison Unit, primarily reporting to the (Senior) Government Liaison Officer. This position involves active participation in meetings and working groups related to government affairs, providing essential support for coordination work on common processes. The incumbent is responsible for facilitating communication and information exchange between UNHCR staff, government authorities, and external parties on matters of significance to the organization. This role requires a proactive approach to stay informed about local and international developments that may impact UNHCR's operations and relationships with government entities. The Government Liaison Associate is expected to assist senior management in navigating the political landscape and addressing challenges related to humanitarian and development processes, ensuring that UNHCR's objectives are met effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Government Liaison Associate include establishing and maintaining close working relationships with officials from various ministries, particularly the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The incumbent must track evolving issues concerning asylum seekers, stateless persons, and refugees within the Area of Responsibility (AoR). It is essential to keep the office informed of local and international developments that may affect the office's relations with the government, including updates on the implementation of the Global Compact on Refugees (GCR) and UN reform initiatives. The Associate will inform supervisors and senior managers about the outcomes of discussions with government authorities and assist in preparing for visits and missions. Additionally, the role involves drafting correspondence, reports, and briefing materials, managing budgets, coordinating with different units to ensure accurate information is presented to government authorities, and supporting risk management efforts. The Government Liaison Associate may also perform other related duties as required, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability in a fast-paced work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the Government Liaison Associate position must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with a High School Diploma, or two years of relevant work experience with a Bachelor's degree or equivalent. Essential qualifications include a background in Political/Social Science, Business Administration, or a related field. Candidates should have a good understanding of UNHCR operations and possess strong political awareness. Functional skills required for this position include proficiency in drafting, documentation, data presentation, and networking. The ability to communicate effectively across cultures is also essential, as is the capacity to manage relationships with various stakeholders, including government officials.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a High School Diploma as a minimum, with a preference for candidates holding a Bachelor's degree or higher in relevant fields such as Political Science, Social Sciences, or Business Administration. Certificates and licenses in these areas are considered essential for the role. Candidates should demonstrate a solid understanding of the operational context of UNHCR and the challenges faced by refugees and displaced persons.

Experience:
The level of experience required for the Government Liaison Associate position includes a minimum of three years of relevant protocol experience. Candidates should have demonstrated operational experience and a solid understanding of UNHCR's roles and responsibilities in responding to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Experience in working within teams and fostering a collaborative work environment is crucial, as is the ability to analyze complex situations and develop innovative solutions. Previous experience in protocol-related areas with embassies, UN agencies, or other relevant entities is highly desirable.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station if it is not English. For General Service jobs, knowledge of English and/or the UN working language of the duty station is required. Local language proficiency is also beneficial, particularly for candidates applying for National Professional jobs. A minimum overall ability of B2 level in the required languages is expected.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the General Service grade GS6 and is a regular assignment. The target start date for the role is January 1, 202

• The position is based in Port Sudan, with additional responsibilities in Nairobi, Kenya. The role is categorized as non-family with a residential location, and it is subject to hardship level E, indicating a challenging living and working environment. The Government Liaison Associate will be expected to contribute to a safe and empowering work environment, adhering to UNHCR's core values and policies regarding conduct and accountability. Female candidates are encouraged to apply, and the position does not require functional clearance.