External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNHCR (United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees), which was established in 1950 with the mission to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR operates in over 130 countries and employs thousands of staff members dedicated to providing assistance and finding durable solutions for those forced to flee their homes due to conflict, persecution, or violence. The organization works closely with governments, NGOs, and other partners to ensure the rights and well-being of refugees and displaced persons are upheld, and it advocates for their protection and assistance in various contexts.

Job Overview:
The External Relations Officer position is crucial for managing and enhancing UNHCR's relationships with external stakeholders, including donors, government entities, and the media. The role requires a strong blend of external relations, donor engagement, and project management capabilities, particularly in the context of Egypt's complex refugee situation. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing and implementing communication strategies that generate support for UNHCR's operations, ensuring that the needs of forcibly displaced and stateless persons are effectively articulated and addressed. The officer will also play a key role in fundraising efforts, identifying new funding streams, and managing donor relations to secure necessary resources for UNHCR's programs. This position demands a strategic thinker who can navigate the political landscape and translate operational realities into compelling narratives that resonate with various audiences.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the External Relations Officer include staying informed about the political context and humanitarian challenges affecting forced displacement. The officer will assist in planning consultative processes with UNHCR colleagues and external partners to develop and implement protection strategies. They will implement communication strategies to garner support for UNHCR's operations, articulate the needs of displaced persons, and ensure these priorities are reflected in UN publications. The officer will organize briefings and meetings with donors and embassies, propose new funding sources, and mobilize additional funds for special projects. They will also participate in inter-agency cooperation, manage information flows within country operations, and support senior management in representing UNHCR in various forums. The role involves drafting situation reports, briefing notes, and other communication materials, as well as managing media relations and fundraising activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in humanitarian operations, particularly in field environments, and have proven experience in donor relations and grant management. Essential qualifications include the ability to prepare high-quality donor reports, organize donor missions, and support fundraising efforts. Strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and political awareness are crucial for translating complex operational realities into effective messaging. The candidate should also demonstrate adaptability, strategic thinking, and the ability to work collaboratively across diverse teams.

Educational Background:
The position requires a minimum of an undergraduate degree in fields such as Political Sciences, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, or other relevant disciplines. Advanced degrees (Master's or Doctorate) are preferred and may reduce the required years of experience. Candidates should have a solid understanding of the political and cultural context of the region, particularly regarding forced displacement and humanitarian operations.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of six years of relevant experience for the P3/NOC level, which can be reduced to five years with a graduate degree or four years with a doctorate. Experience in humanitarian operations, particularly in field environments, is essential. Familiarity with UNHCR operations and fundraising experience is highly desirable, as is knowledge of social media and digital communications.

Languages:
Knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is Arabic in this case. For national professional jobs, knowledge of the local language is also required. Proficiency in additional languages is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified under the UNOPS IICA2 category and is not remote. The target start date for the position is May 1, 202

• The role is full-time and involves working in a family-type environment, with a hardship level classified as A (least hardship). The position may involve supervising support staff and requires a proactive approach to fostering a safe and respectful workplace.