External Relations Officer

External Relations Officer

Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR)

June 21, 2026August 1, 2026GenevaSwitzerland
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) is a part of the United Nations system, established to promote and protect human rights globally. The OHCHR works to ensure that the rights of individuals are upheld and that governments are held accountable for their actions. The organization operates in various countries and has a mission to promote universal respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms. It engages with various stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and international organizations, to foster dialogue and cooperation on human rights issues. The OHCHR employs a diverse workforce and is committed to creating an inclusive environment that respects diversity and promotes gender equality.

Job Overview:
The External Relations Officer position within the Donor and External Relations Section (DEXREL) of the OHCHR is crucial for enhancing the organization's resource mobilization efforts. The incumbent will be responsible for building the capacity of the office in resource mobilization, which includes leading training activities, developing training materials, and ensuring that resource mobilization strategies are integrated into the organization's operations. The role requires a proactive approach to establishing and maintaining partnerships with various donors, including governments and intergovernmental organizations, to broaden the donor base for UN Human Rights initiatives. The officer will also be involved in preparing written outputs for senior management and ensuring compliance with UN rules and procedures in resource mobilization activities. This position is pivotal in ensuring that the OHCHR can effectively mobilize resources to support its mission and objectives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The External Relations Officer will undertake a variety of responsibilities, including: acting as the focal point for capacity building in resource mobilization; leading training activities at various levels; writing and adapting training modules and materials; liaising with relevant departments to incorporate resource mobilization into staff training; developing standardized tools and guidelines; advising on resource mobilization policies and strategies; coordinating with personnel to apply project management principles; preparing written outputs such as briefing notes and position papers; drafting correspondence for donors; maintaining and updating donor relations information; ensuring compliance with UN rules; producing fundraising proposals; supporting senior management on missions for resource mobilization; developing partnerships with new donors; advising senior officials on resource mobilization strategies; promoting partnerships within the UN system; and organizing donor briefings and meetings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in social science, political science, communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, business administration, management, economics, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires a strong understanding of human rights, humanitarian, and development work, particularly in donor relations and resource mobilization.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as social science, political science, communication, journalism, international relations, public administration, business administration, management, or economics is required. A first-level university degree may be accepted with additional qualifying work experience.

Experience:
A minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in human rights, humanitarian, or development work is required, with at least five years specifically in donor relations and resource mobilization. Experience in capacity building is essential, and familiarity with results-based management is desirable.

Languages:
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. For this position, proficiency in English is required, with a minimum level of proficiency as per the UN Language Framework. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the availability of funds and the extension of the mandate. The United Nations emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The recruitment process is free of charge, and the UN does not require any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.
Apply now
Similar Jobs