Partnerships Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of achieving Zero Hunger. WFP's core values include Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion, and it strives to create a diverse and inclusive work environment. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 202

• The organization emphasizes the importance of personal and professional development for its employees, offering various training and mobility opportunities across its global offices.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer position is a consultancy role within the Global Partner Countries Division (GPC) of WFP, based in London, United Kingdom. The officer will play a crucial role in managing relationships with the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) and other relevant partners. The primary functions include responding to inquiries from the FCDO, conducting partner profiling, analyzing data trends, and developing outreach plans to maximize resources for WFP initiatives. The officer will also maintain an overview of partner intelligence, conduct in-depth research, and draft strategic materials for WFP leadership. This role requires collaboration with country offices and external stakeholders to develop partnership action plans and ensure alignment with WFP's organizational goals. The position is expected to contribute significantly to WFP's strategic positioning and advocacy efforts in the UK, enhancing the organization's ability to deliver effective humanitarian assistance.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Officer will be responsible for a variety of key accountabilities, including but not limited to: managing and responding to field-related inquiries from the FCDO to ensure timely and accurate information exchange; conducting partner profiling and analyzing data trends to develop outreach plans; maintaining an overview of forecasts and gathering partner intelligence using key information systems; collecting, analyzing, and synthesizing data to enhance decision-making processes; conducting in-depth research and drafting notes to facilitate decision-making; collaborating with country offices to develop partnership action plans; providing strategic advice to WFP leadership; drafting briefing materials for high-level meetings; supporting WFP leadership missions to the UK; coordinating special projects and initiatives; and performing any other duties as required to support the effective functioning of the WFP London Global Office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong set of qualifications, including proven project management skills, effective communication abilities, and a deep understanding of interdisciplinary humanitarian and development issues. The role requires sensitivity, tact, and diplomacy in external relations, as well as excellent networking and organizational skills. The ability to work collaboratively in multicultural settings is essential, along with a strong teamwork spirit. Candidates should demonstrate a commitment to WFP's values and mission, and be able to engage effectively with stakeholders at all levels.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced or first university degree in development, business administration, public administration, environment, or related fields. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and the development landscape in which WFP operates.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of relevant working experience in development, policy, or humanitarian response is preferred. Candidates with direct experience working in or with WFP operations in the field will have an advantage. Additionally, a basic knowledge of UK governmental structures, particularly the FCDO, and an understanding of their mechanisms are required for this role.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) is mandatory for this position. Additionally, fluency in a second official UN language such as Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese is desirable, as it would enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This is a local consultancy recruitment, and candidates must be residents of the United Kingdom or possess a legal work permit. Candidates should reside within commuting distance of London at the time of application or be willing to relocate at their own expense. WFP will not cover relocation costs or assist in obtaining residency status or work permits. Preference will be given to candidates who are already within commuting distance of London. The contract duration is for 11 months, and the position is classified as a consultant role at Level 1.