Partnerships & External Engagement Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the United Nations' lead agency on international development, established to eradicate poverty and reduce inequality across the globe. Operating in 170 countries and territories, UNDP focuses on developing policies, enhancing leadership skills, fostering partnerships, and building institutional capabilities to help nations achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The organization emphasizes sustainable development, democratic governance, peace building, and climate resilience as its core areas of work. UNDP's mission is to end poverty, promote democratic governance, uphold the rule of law, and establish inclusive institutions, advocating for transformative change and connecting countries to essential knowledge, experience, and resources to improve the quality of life for their citizens.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships & External Engagement Officer will play a crucial role in strengthening UNDP South Africa's strategic positioning and partnership development efforts. Reporting to the Deputy Resident Representative (DRR), the incumbent will be responsible for coordinating resource mobilization initiatives and enhancing UNDP's visibility and influence through innovative tools, including AI-enabled research and donor intelligence. This position is particularly significant as the Country Office is implementing a new Country Programme Document (CPD) for 2026-2030, which aims to create productive and inclusive markets while ensuring climate resilience. The officer will be expected to operationalize the CPD's partnerships and resource mobilization strategy, ensuring alignment with the organization's goals and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The officer will undertake a variety of duties, including:

• Developing and maintaining a structured partnership and engagement plan that aligns with the Country Programme's resource mobilization targets.
• Operationalizing the implementation of the CPD partnerships and resource mobilization strategy, including designing a monitoring plan to track success and address challenges.
• Mapping and tracking strategic partners across various sectors, including government, private sector, international financial institutions, foundations, and innovation ecosystems.
• Identifying high-leverage platforms for UNDP positioning and preparing tailored engagement briefs and strategic materials.
• Serving as the coordination focal point for donor intelligence and resource mobilization tracking, maintaining a comprehensive donor intelligence dashboard.
• Identifying strategic funding entry points and facilitating internal alignment for integrated funding propositions.
• Deploying AI tools for donor landscape scanning and trend analysis, systematizing research outputs into actionable intelligence.
• Supporting the DRR in shaping strategic messaging and drafting executive social media content.
• Acting as a connector across various teams, convening periodic internal resource mobilization reviews, and tracking high-level engagement outcomes.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess strong strategic thinking and systems integration skills, with a proven ability to develop partnerships and navigate complex ecosystems. Analytical rigor and donor intelligence capabilities are essential, along with proficiency in AI and digital tools. The role requires excellent advocacy and narrative strategy skills, as well as coordination and facilitation abilities. Political acumen and discretion are also critical for success in this position.

Educational Background:
A relevant degree in international relations, development studies, public administration, or a related field is required. Advanced degrees or specialized training in partnership development or resource mobilization would be advantageous.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in partnership development, resource mobilization, or a related field, preferably within an international development context. Experience working with UN agencies or similar organizations is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, both written and spoken. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly those relevant to the South African context, would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role based in South Africa. The successful candidate will receive a Monthly Volunteer Living Allowance (VLA) of R33 348,22, a one-time entry lump sum of $400 at the start of the assignment, medical insurance, life cover, and annual leave. Additionally, access to learning platforms and a one-time exit lump sum at the end of the assignment will be provided. The role may involve navigating a complex security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security environment, and candidates should be prepared for periodic security updates and advisories.