HRT Officer

Job Posting Organization:
Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an international, independent, medical humanitarian organization that delivers emergency aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, healthcare exclusion, and natural disasters. Founded in 1971, MSF operates in over 70 countries worldwide, providing assistance based solely on need, without regard to race, religion, gender, or political affiliation. MSF International serves as the legal entity that binds MSF’s 24 sections and 28 associations together, registered in Switzerland. It provides coordination, information, and support to the MSF Movement, implementing international projects and initiatives as requested. MSF is committed to humanitarian principles and strives to ensure that its operations are effective and responsive to the needs of the populations it serves.

Job Overview:
The HRT Officer position is crucial for enhancing MSF's representation and negotiation efforts in East Africa, particularly in Nairobi, which has become a significant hub for humanitarian coordination and engagement. The role involves supporting the Humanitarian Representation Team (HRT) East Africa (EA) and the African Union (AU) in their efforts to engage with various stakeholders, including regional and member state representations, humanitarian donors, and UN agencies. The HRT Officer will facilitate internal coordination, analysis, and information sharing, ensuring that MSF's operational priorities are effectively communicated and represented. This position requires a proactive approach to networking and engagement, with a focus on improving connections and visibility for MSF within the humanitarian landscape. The HRT Officer will also play a key role in monitoring and reporting on humanitarian issues and trends, contributing to the overall effectiveness of MSF's advocacy efforts in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The HRT Officer will be responsible for a variety of tasks aimed at supporting the HRT EA and HRT AU's representation and negotiation work. Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting internal coordination and analysis by preparing agendas for Interdesk meetings, attending these meetings, and documenting minutes to be shared with relevant desks.
• Facilitating intersectional discussions and providing monitoring, analysis, and reporting on key stakeholders and engagement opportunities.
• Ensuring systematic sharing of information among the Interdesk and HRT, including operational decisions and strategic developments.
• Collaborating closely with advocacy teams to provide insights and support for communications and advocacy efforts.
• Improving and maintaining tools for intersectional coordination, including managing the SharePoint platform for engagement tracking and information sharing.
• Supporting the development and implementation of MSF's engagement and representation strategies in Nairobi, including organizing external meetings and representing MSF in high-level discussions when delegated.
• Increasing contacts within civil society and governmental circles to enhance MSF's influence and advocacy efforts.
• Monitoring and analyzing humanitarian issues and trends, providing regular updates to inform MSF's operational plans and advocacy objectives.
• Preparing engagement plans and arranging meetings for desks or high-level visitors as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates for the HRT Officer position should possess a strong understanding of humanitarian issues and the ability to engage effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders. Required qualifications include:

• Proven experience in humanitarian or development work, particularly in representation or advocacy roles.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to synthesize complex information into clear and actionable insights.
• Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, with the ability to engage effectively with various audiences.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and manage multiple priorities.
• Familiarity with the humanitarian landscape in East Africa and an understanding of the political and social dynamics affecting the region.

Educational Background:
A bachelor's degree in international relations, political science, humanitarian studies, or a related field is required. A master's degree in a relevant discipline is preferred and may be advantageous for candidates seeking to stand out in the selection process.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 3-5 years of relevant experience in humanitarian work, advocacy, or representation roles. Experience working with international organizations, NGOs, or within the UN system is highly desirable. Familiarity with the East African context and previous experience in similar roles will be considered a significant asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within MSF and with external stakeholders. Proficiency in French or Arabic is considered a strong asset, as it may enhance engagement with various regional actors and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for 12 months, with a full-time commitment expected. The role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, and may involve occasional travel within the region. Compensation will be based on MSF's salary grid, with a gross annual salary ranging from EUR 27,144 to EUR 33,084, depending on experience. MSF offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health insurance and other allowances as per the organization's policies.