Associate External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), an organization established to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR's mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. The organization operates in over 130 countries, employing thousands of staff members dedicated to humanitarian efforts. UNHCR was established in 1950 and has since played a crucial role in responding to global refugee crises, providing assistance, and advocating for the rights of displaced individuals.

Job Overview:
The Associate External Relations Officer position is designed for a candidate with a solid understanding of UNHCR's programming and operations. The role involves supporting reporting and resource mobilization efforts, engaging with key donors, and collaborating with private sector partners. The ideal candidate will have experience in communication and public information activities, showcasing creativity in producing engaging content for web and social media platforms. The position requires strong representation skills, as the officer will be responsible for articulating UNHCR's messages effectively. The candidate will also need to stay informed about the political context and humanitarian developments affecting forced displacement, assisting in the implementation of a communications strategy that generates support for UNHCR's operations from various external partners, including governments, NGOs, and the media.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties of the Associate External Relations Officer include staying updated on challenges related to forced displacement and humanitarian operations, assisting in the implementation of a communications strategy, and facilitating dialogue with donors and embassies. The officer will organize briefings and meetings, disseminate information on UNHCR's funding situation, and mobilize additional funds for programs aimed at enhancing protection for displaced persons. Responsibilities also include drafting reports, monitoring funding earmarking, participating in inter-agency initiatives, managing information flows, proposing events to promote UNHCR's work, and supporting media relations. The officer will represent UNHCR in fundraising and communication priorities and will be expected to manage risks and seize opportunities impacting objectives in their area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate. Essential qualifications include experience in humanitarian operations, excellent knowledge of local institutions, politics, and culture, as well as skills in drafting and documentation, fundraising, and program management. Familiarity with social media and web content management is also desirable. The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to UNHCR's core values of professionalism, integrity, and respect for diversity.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Political Sciences, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, Communications, or a related field. A Bachelor of Arts in Communication, International Relations, Journalism, Political Science, or Social Science is preferred. Candidates with advanced degrees may have a reduced experience requirement, reflecting the organization's emphasis on higher education qualifications.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in humanitarian operations, particularly in a field environment. This experience should include knowledge of local institutions and the political landscape, as well as a proven track record in fundraising and program management. Candidates should also have experience working with social media and engaging with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and the media.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. For international professional and field service jobs, knowledge of the UN working language of the duty station is required if it is not English. For national professional jobs, knowledge of English and the local language is necessary. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a family staff member role and is not remote. The target start date for the position is January 1, 2026, and the deadline for applications is December 17, 202

• The role may involve a written test as part of the selection process. UNHCR emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and empowering work environment, where all staff members are expected to contribute to preventing inappropriate conduct and supporting ongoing dialogue on these matters.