Policy and Advocacy Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) is a prominent international humanitarian non-governmental organization (INGO) founded in 1933 at the behest of Albert Einstein. The IRC operates in over 40 countries and 29 U.S. cities, focusing on restoring health, safety, education, economic wellbeing, and empowerment to individuals affected by conflict and disaster. With a mission to help people survive, reclaim control of their futures, and strengthen their communities, the IRC employs a workforce dedicated to delivering lasting impact and hope to millions worldwide. In Uganda, the IRC has been active since 1998, providing support to refugees, vulnerable host communities, and various institutions, including government bodies and civil society organizations. The IRC's programming in Uganda spans multiple sectors, including health, protection, women's empowerment, economic recovery, and education, with a focus on systems strengthening and accountability to affected persons.

Job Overview:
The Policy and advisor" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Advocacy Advisor will play a crucial role in the PlayMatters (PM) phase 3 initiative, a four-year education program aimed at enhancing the well-being and learning outcomes of children aged 3-12 in conflict-affected regions, specifically in Ethiopia, South Sudan, and Uganda. This position is integral to the regional support team and will be based in the Kampala office. The advisor will lead efforts to highlight the developmental needs of children in these settings, raise awareness of IRC and partner initiatives, and influence funding and prioritization of education that integrates play. The role involves designing and implementing a comprehensive policy and advocacy strategy that aligns with the project's goals and IRC's global education strategy. The advisor will also engage in regular communication with various stakeholders, including ministries and partners, to ensure effective advocacy and implementation of the project.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Design and implement a Learning through Play policy and advocacy strategy, supporting IRC's global education advocacy efforts.
• Liaise with advocacy focal points across IRC's Crisis Response, Recovery & Development Unit to stay informed about strategic initiatives.
• Conduct stakeholder analyses and power mapping to identify key decision-makers for advocacy efforts.
• Develop and oversee advocacy and communications tactics to influence donors, ministries, and humanitarian coordination groups.
• Collaborate with communications teams to create compelling print and digital materials.
• Maintain relationships with stakeholders through regular updates and meetings.
• Facilitate the adaptation of PlayMatters content within government systems.
• Develop a Learning through Play advocacy workplan and track progress.
• Conduct capacity-building workshops for IRC and partner staff. 1
• Represent PlayMatters in interagency groups and manage relationships with key partners.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess excellent interpersonal, oral, and written communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment. Strong facilitation skills are essential for leading meetings and workshops with diverse stakeholders. The ability to work independently, set priorities, and solve problems with minimal guidance is crucial. Candidates should have excellent writing and editing skills, with the ability to draft and edit various documents. Critical thinking skills and the ability to synthesize information are necessary, along with solid organizational skills and attention to detail. A flexible work attitude is important for adapting to changing project needs and collaborating effectively with team members.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree is required, with a preference for a post-graduate degree in a relevant discipline related to global education in humanitarian settings, such as education or psychology. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of education in crisis situations and for effectively contributing to the PlayMatters initiative.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of experience working in policy and advocacy related to children, education, health, or other relevant fields. This experience is vital for understanding the landscape of humanitarian education and for effectively influencing policy and funding decisions.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and with external stakeholders. Additional language skills relevant to the regions of operation, such as local languages spoken in Uganda, would be considered an asset and beneficial for engaging with local communities and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Kampala, Uganda, and may require approximately 30% travel. The role is full-time and involves working closely with various internal and external stakeholders to achieve the objectives of the PlayMatters initiative. The IRC emphasizes adherence to professional standards and core values, including integrity, service, equality, and accountability, and is committed to creating a safe and supportive work environment.