Associate Donor Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, which was established in 195

• The organization is dedicated to protecting the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and has a workforce of more than 18,000 staff members. Its mission is to ensure that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state, and to return home voluntarily. UNHCR also works to ensure that refugees can rebuild their lives and integrate into their host communities.

Job Overview:
The Associate Donor Relations Officer plays a crucial role in maintaining proactive dialogue with governmental donors and UN agencies, as well as regional and local donors. This position is essential for building relationships, raising awareness, and mobilizing political and financial support for UNHCR's work and priorities. The ideal candidate will be resilient, politically astute, and results-oriented, with strong experience in donor relations, partnerships, and resource mobilization in complex humanitarian settings. The role requires the ability to operate effectively in harsh living and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security conditions, manage sensitive relationships with national authorities, and position UNHCR’s work within the Sahel’s evolving political and security context. The incumbent will pursue opportunities for donor engagement, strengthen partnerships, and sustain fundraising opportunities, all while navigating politically complex environments.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate Donor Relations Officer include assisting in maintaining close dialogue with donor governments regarding UNHCR operations and financial requirements, keeping abreast of UNHCR's operations worldwide, particularly in high-profile and emergency situations, and identifying new donors and funding sources. The officer will draft internal and external correspondence, including briefing notes for senior management, implement and review actions and strategies, monitor donor engagement, prepare submissions for specific funding, and assist regional offices with fundraising strategies. Additionally, the officer will arrange meetings for donors, prepare reports using UNHCR information management systems, provide editorial support for fundraising publications, and guide field operations on engagement in Refugee Response Plans. The role also involves managing risks and seizing opportunities impacting objectives in the area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced university degree in International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Economics, Communications, or a related field. Candidates must have a minimum of 3–5 years of relevant professional experience in donor relations, external relations, or partnerships in humanitarian settings. Prior experience with UNHCR or another UN organization is highly desirable. Essential skills include experience in external engagement with donors, UN agencies, and partners, as well as knowledge of UNHCR's operational arrangements and funding needs.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in fields such as International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Economics, or Communications. An undergraduate degree combined with relevant experience may also be acceptable. The educational background should provide a strong foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian work and donor engagement.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 3 years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, 2 years with a graduate degree, or 1 year with a doctorate. Candidates should have professional work experience in field operations and external engagement with donors, UN agencies, and governments. Experience in managing donor relations and understanding the perspectives and requirements of major donors is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in English and French (both written and spoken) is essential for this position. Knowledge of additional languages is considered an asset, as it can enhance communication with diverse stakeholders and donors.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as UNOPS IICA1 and is not remote. The target start date for the role is February 1, 2026, and the application deadline is February 14, 202

• The position is categorized under a non-family residential location, indicating that staff members will not be accompanied by family members. The role is full-time and involves working in a challenging environment, requiring a high level of integrity, discretion, and professionalism.