Senior Development Adviser

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 80 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger and improving nutrition. WFP's vision is to create a diverse, skilled, and high-performing workforce that operates in a healthy and inclusive work environment, living by its core values of Integrity, Collaboration, Commitment, Humanity, and Inclusion. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, and continues to invest in the personal and professional development of its employees through various training and mentorship programs. For more information, visit their website at https://www.wfp.org and follow them on social media platforms.

Job Overview:
The Senior Development Adviser position at WFP Malawi is crucial for providing strategic, analytical, and coordination support to the Office of the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Country Director. The role involves monitoring and analyzing political, social, economic, and humanitarian developments that could impact WFP operations, and providing concise briefs and recommendations to the Country Director. The adviser will engage with senior government officials and development partners, ensuring that all WFP interventions align with Malawi’s national priorities and policy frameworks. This position requires a strong understanding of the local context, as well as the ability to influence policy agendas and coordinate inter-agency efforts effectively. The adviser will also play a key role in resource mobilization and strengthening partnerships with key donors and financial institutions, contributing to long-term financing for resilience and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security initiatives in Malawi.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Development Adviser will report directly to the Country Director and will be responsible for the following key responsibilities:

• Conducting strategic analysis and monitoring political, social, economic, and humanitarian developments that may affect WFP operations, providing concise briefs and recommendations to the Country Director.
• Engaging in policy research and analysis to guide WFP Malawi’s decision-making and strategic planning.
• Driving engagement with senior government officials, development partners, and regional organizations to assist the Country Director in strategic policy dialogues.
• Ensuring that all WFP interventions are aligned with Malawi’s national priorities and policy frameworks through consistent follow-up.
• Monitoring national policy developments and advising the Country Director on implications for WFP programs and positioning.
• Gathering socio-political insights to support WFP’s effective positioning with national governments and international institutions.
• Representing WFP in inter-agency working groups and policy-level discussions, ensuring coordinated engagement and follow-through.
• Supporting the partnerships team with the identification and submission of new funding opportunities in coordination with the Government of Malawi.
• Strengthening relationships with key donors and financial institutions by facilitating communication and joint engagement with government stakeholders. 1
• Contributing to building trust and collaboration between WFP, the Government of Malawi, and development partners to enhance long-term financing for resilience and food security initiatives.

Required Qualifications:
The ideal candidate for the Senior Development Adviser position should possess the following qualifications:

• An advanced university degree in Political Science, International Development, Development Studies, International Relations, Law, Communications, or a related field. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training.
• At least 10 years of relevant professional work experience in policy analysis, strategy development, inter-agency coordination, partnership building, or related fields.
• Experience as a senior government official (e.g., former Minister, Principal Secretary, or equivalent) is highly desirable.
• Strong analytical and political economy analysis skills, with a good understanding of government and corporate strategies.
• Solid grasp of Malawi’s political and development landscape, including key national institutions and policy processes.
• Experience in developing multi-stakeholder partnerships and excellent communication, writing, and presentation abilities.
• Ability to quickly assimilate UN/WFP processes and systems, with a high level of discretion and diplomacy.
• Good interpersonal and diplomatic skills, with the ability to work in a multicultural environment.
• Experience working with UN agencies, government institutions, and/or international organizations is a plus.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as Political Science, International Development, Development Studies, International Relations, Law, or Communications. Alternatively, a first university degree combined with additional years of related work experience and/or training may be acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of policy analysis and strategic development in the context of humanitarian assistance and food security.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of relevant professional work experience. This experience should encompass areas such as policy analysis, strategy development, inter-agency coordination, and partnership building. Candidates with experience as senior government officials will be given preference, as this background provides valuable insights into the workings of government and policy-making processes.

Languages:
Fluency in English (level C) and Chichewa is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and engagement with stakeholders in Malawi, including government officials and local partners. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract duration for this position is 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. This role is classified at a senior level, and candidates should be prepared for a full-time commitment. WFP is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from qualified candidates regardless of race, gender, disability, or other factors. The organization also emphasizes the importance of providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. Compensation and benefits will be detailed in the Terms and Conditions section of the vacancy announcement.