Chief of Mission (CoM) (P)

Chief of Mission (CoM) (P)

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

January 14, 2026February 28, 2026MaputoMozambique
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization has a staffing complement of over 20,000 employees in more than 580 locations worldwide, emphasizing a workplace culture where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Mission (CoM) will be responsible for overseeing and providing policy, administrative, programmatic, and financial support to the Country Office (CO) in Mozambique. This position requires strategic country program development and planning, where the CoM will develop and promote IOM's overall mandate and strategy, ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) objectives. The CoM will play a crucial role in policy discussions, resource mobilization, and ensuring the appropriateness and effectiveness of programs in line with IOM’s Strategic Vision. The CoM will also be responsible for engaging with various stakeholders, including governmental authorities, to advocate for appropriate migration management policies and strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Mission will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:
  • Directing and monitoring project design and implementation, ensuring high-quality performance of migration-related projects.
  • Taking full responsibility for the successful execution of ongoing operational programs and developing new ones.
  • Participating actively within the UN Country Team (UNCT) and ensuring migration-related issues are integrated into the CCA and UNSDCF processes.
  • Engaging with governmental authorities and international organizations to develop partnerships and identify migration-related areas for common activities.
  • Reporting regularly to the Director General and Regional Director on progress and developments, preparing various reports covering IOM activities.
  • Facilitating knowledge generation and management, conducting field visits, and building strong relationships with local authorities.
  • Ensuring safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management of IOM personnel and facilities, and leading the PSEA/SH Strategy at the country level.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess significant experience in general management, project and resources management, diplomacy, fundraising, and public relations. They should have a proven track record of liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities and international institutions. Additionally, candidates should have experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings related to migration programming, both in emergency and development contexts. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, along with strong liaison and negotiation skills.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in Political or Social Science, International Relations, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited academic institution is required, along with ten years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the above fields with twelve years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Accredited Universities are those listed in the UNESCO World Higher Education Database.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in general management, project and resources management, and diplomacy. Candidates should have a strong background in fundraising and public relations, as well as experience in liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities and international institutions. Experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings related to migration programming is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required (oral and written), as it is one of IOM's official languages. A working knowledge of Portuguese is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be specifically evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is fixed-term for one year with the possibility of extension. The position is classified at the P-5 grade level, and the recruitment is for a professional vacancy. The eligibility criteria for expressing interest in this role have been widened, allowing current staff members to express interest in relevant roles at lower-level grades. Internationally recruited professional staff are required to be mobile, and any offer made to the candidate is subject to funding confirmation. The selection process may be used to staff similar positions in various duty stations, and recommended candidates will remain eligible for appointment in a similar position for a period of 24 months. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM.
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