Policy and Advocacy Adviser

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 that encourages innovative ideas and responsibility at all levels.

Job Overview:
The Policy and Advocacy Adviser will play a crucial role in supporting the NRC Ukraine Country Office in implementing advocacy initiatives that align with the organization's strategic goals. This position requires a deep understanding of humanitarian programming and protection principles, particularly within the context of Ukraine. The adviser will be responsible for leading program-based advocacy efforts, conducting policy research, and collaborating closely with various functions within NRC Ukraine and its national partners. The role demands excellent communication skills, both in English and Ukrainian, and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders to promote NRC's advocacy objectives. The adviser will also be tasked with developing high-quality advocacy and policy products that reflect NRC's programming goals, ensuring coherence between advocacy and program operations, and building the capacity of technical staff and partners in advocacy efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Policy and Advocacy Adviser include:

• Supporting the implementation of NRC Ukraine’s Advocacy Strategy in alignment with country and regional priorities and NRC’s Global Advocacy Strategy.
• Leading program-based advocacy initiatives, ensuring strong integration between program operations and advocacy efforts.
• Developing and producing high-quality advocacy and policy products that align with NRC’s programming and advocacy goals.
• Ensuring advocacy coherence and reinforcing effective synergies between programs and advocacy.
• Conducting systematic training on advocacy and building the capacity of technical staff and partners.
• Leading advocacy capacity-building efforts at the area level to enhance collaboration between advocacy and program teams.
• Undertaking regular travel to NRC program locations to gather information and stories related to NRC programs and support program staff with advocacy-related activities.
• Coordinating with key stakeholders to create strategic advocacy alliances and identify opportunities to advocate for NRC’s position within the broader humanitarian community, particularly with national NGOs and local responders.
• Leveraging digital tools and data-driven approaches to enhance evidence-based advocacy. 1
• Deputizing for the Advocacy Manager as required and undertaking additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor. 1
• Ensuring compliance with NRC policies, guidance, and procedures.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Policy and Advocacy Adviser position should possess the following qualifications:

• A minimum of 5 years of experience in humanitarian recovery, particularly in complex and volatile contexts.
• Experience in an advocacy role with NGOs is considered an asset.
• A strong grasp of humanitarian programming and protection principles, with specific knowledge of the humanitarian context in Ukraine and the dynamics of the humanitarian sector.
• Demonstrated experience in coordination and the creation of advocacy alliances across various stakeholders, along with a command of research and policy work.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in both English and Ukrainian, both written and verbal.
• A strong work ethic, focus on results, and the ability to work independently while also being a team player.
• High sensitivity, self-awareness, approachability, trustworthiness, and confidentiality.
• Proven presentation, training, and facilitation skills.
• Strong analytical and creative skills, with proficiency in computer applications, including MS Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint, Access).

Educational Background:
Candidates should have a relevant educational background that supports their ability to perform in the role of Policy and Advocacy Adviser. This typically includes a degree in social sciences, international relations, humanitarian studies, or a related field. Advanced degrees or specialized training in advocacy, policy analysis, or humanitarian programming may be advantageous and are often preferred by employers in this sector.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in humanitarian recovery and advocacy roles, particularly in complex and volatile contexts. Candidates should have a proven track record of working effectively in the humanitarian sector, demonstrating their ability to navigate the challenges and dynamics of humanitarian operations, particularly in Ukraine. Experience in coordinating advocacy efforts and building alliances among various stakeholders is essential, as is a strong understanding of the humanitarian landscape and the ability to conduct policy research and analysis.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Ukrainian is mandatory for this position, both in written and verbal communication. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly if they are relevant to the humanitarian context in Ukraine or the broader region. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills that enable them to engage effectively with diverse audiences and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kyiv, Ukraine, with a contract duration of 12 months, which may be extended based on performance and organizational needs. The role may require travel of up to 40% to various NRC program locations. The salary and benefits are classified under Grade 8 on NRC's grading structure. NRC is committed to being an equal opportunities employer, promoting diversity without distinction to age, gender, religion, ethnicity, nationality, or physical ability. The organization encourages innovative thinking and provides employees at all levels with opportunities to contribute ideas and take responsibility. 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.