Client Engagement Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Volunteers (UNV) program is an initiative of the United Nations that promotes volunteerism to support peace and development worldwide. Established in 1970, UNV mobilizes volunteers to work in various capacities across the globe, contributing to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization operates in over 130 countries, engaging thousands of volunteers each year to assist in humanitarian efforts, development projects, and peacekeeping missions. UNV's mission is to enhance the effectiveness of development efforts through the mobilization of volunteers, fostering a culture of volunteerism, and promoting the value of volunteer contributions to society.

Job Overview:
The Client Engagement Assistant position is a vital role within the UNV Field Unit, focusing on the identification, development, and cultivation of partnerships with UN Agencies and Host Entities at the country level. The primary function of this role is to support the mobilization of UN Volunteers by managing relationships with priority partners, ensuring client satisfaction, and facilitating the delivery of volunteer services. The assistant will work closely with the Regional Manager and Country Coordinator, contributing to the strategic alignment of volunteer placements with UN agency strategies. This position requires a proactive approach to gather and analyze data, promote volunteerism, and enhance the overall volunteer experience. The assistant will also play a key role in advocacy campaigns and communications that highlight the impact of volunteerism, ensuring that the services offered by UNV are effectively communicated and understood by stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Assist in mobilizing volunteers and developing and maintaining partnerships: Support the management of assigned partner accounts and maintain relationships with UN entities to promote UNV’s mandate and volunteer assignments. Identify volunteer placement opportunities aligned with UN agency strategies and assist in preparing descriptions of assignments. Contribute to the development of tailored offers and initiatives that address partners’ evolving needs for volunteer solutions. Support advocacy campaigns, key events, and communications that raise awareness of volunteerism and highlight impact stories. Collect and analyze data from UN Cooperation Frameworks and agency programmes to identify opportunities for volunteer engagement. Record mobilization opportunities and partnership intelligence in UNV’s Client Relationship Management (CRM) system and ensure knowledge is documented and shared. Prepare presentations, mapping, and key messages for engagement with partners and internal use. Act as focal point for online volunteering, supporting host entities in developing OV opportunities and promoting the concept of OV.
• Support volunteer experience and duty of care: Assist with onboarding and provide ongoing support throughout the volunteer management cycle to ensure a positive experience for all UN Volunteers. Respond to volunteer inquiries, escalate concerns when needed, and gather feedback through surveys or check-ins to inform improvements. Help organize appreciation initiatives and local events that recognize contributions and foster belonging. Support host entities with information on volunteer roles, wellbeing, and enabling instruments. Contribute to duty of care by liaising with security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security focal points and coordinating assistance in cases such as medical evacuation. Provide tailored support to peers facing language or integration challenges. Backstop other Field Unit functions during peak periods or staff absences to ensure continuity of service and support.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. A demonstrated understanding of the UN system and its operations is essential, along with the ability to work collaboratively across multiple units and functions. The ideal candidate should have a proactive approach to problem-solving and a commitment to promoting volunteerism. Experience in client management, partnership development, and event planning is highly desirable. Familiarity with data analysis and reporting tools will be an advantage. Candidates should also exhibit cultural sensitivity and adaptability to work in diverse environments.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in social sciences, international relations, development studies, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in areas relevant to volunteer management, partnership development, or humanitarian assistance will be considered an asset. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the principles of volunteerism and the role of volunteers in development and humanitarian contexts.

Experience:
A minimum of 2 years of relevant professional experience in partnership development, client engagement, or volunteer management is required. Experience working within the UN system or with international organizations is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of successfully managing relationships with stakeholders and contributing to the mobilization of volunteers or similar initiatives. Experience in data collection and analysis, as well as event planning and execution, will be beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of additional UN languages, such as French or Spanish, is considered an asset and will enhance the candidate's profile. The ability to communicate effectively with diverse audiences is crucial for this role.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Gaborone, Botswana, and requires a mature level of cultural awareness and the ability to work in potentially challenging conditions. The role is full-time and may involve travel within the country to engage with partners and support volunteer mobilization efforts. Candidates should be prepared for a dynamic work environment and demonstrate flexibility and commitment to the mission of UNV. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service, including entitlements and benefits, can be found on the UNV website.