Associate External Relations Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting is for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), an organization established to protect and support refugees and displaced persons worldwide. UNHCR's mission is to safeguard the rights and well-being of refugees, ensuring that everyone has the right to seek asylum and find safe refuge in another state. The organization operates in numerous countries, providing assistance to millions of people affected by conflict and persecution. UNHCR was established in 1950 and has since grown to employ thousands of staff members across the globe, working in various capacities to address the needs of forcibly displaced individuals. The organization is committed to upholding international refugee laws and advocating for the rights of refugees and stateless persons, working closely with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to provide comprehensive support and solutions for those in need.

Job Overview:
The Associate External Relations Officer position is a vital role within the UNHCR's External Relations team based in Dhaka, Bangladesh. This position is particularly focused on enhancing the organization's outreach and communication efforts regarding the Rohingya refugee crisis, which has seen over 1.2 million refugees residing in Bangladesh. The incumbent will be responsible for preparing communication and outreach materials aimed at external audiences, including donor reports and funding briefs. The role requires a proactive approach to engage with various stakeholders, including government entities, NGOs, and the media, to effectively present UNHCR's work and advocate for the needs of refugees. The Associate External Relations Officer will also be expected to travel regularly to Cox's Bazar to coordinate with team members and support field activities. This position demands a collaborative team player who can work under pressure and adapt to the evolving humanitarian landscape.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Associate External Relations Officer include but are not limited to: staying informed about developments in operations to prepare briefings and reports; assisting in the preparation of funding submissions and after-action reports; developing and maintaining relationships with government, NGOs, and UN agencies; supporting the organization of meetings and serving as the general secretariat for relevant clusters; preparing materials for senior management meetings; organizing missions for VIP visitors; contributing to public information efforts; drafting situation reports, briefing notes, and press releases; monitoring funding earmarking levels; and promoting UNHCR's visibility through various communication channels. The officer will also be responsible for identifying risks and opportunities impacting objectives and ensuring effective decision-making in their area of responsibility.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of three years of relevant experience with an undergraduate degree, two years with a graduate degree, or one year with a doctorate degree. Essential qualifications include experience in humanitarian operations, excellent knowledge of local institutions, politics, and culture, as well as strong drafting and documentation skills. Desirable qualifications include fundraising experience and familiarity with social media management. The position requires a proactive approach to communication and the ability to engage effectively with diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a degree in Political Sciences, Social Sciences, International Relations, Journalism, Communications, or a related field. A strong academic foundation in these areas is essential to understand the complexities of humanitarian operations and external relations effectively.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have relevant experience in humanitarian operations, particularly in a field environment. This experience should encompass a solid understanding of the challenges faced by displaced populations and the operational context in which UNHCR operates. Candidates with experience in fundraising and program management will have an advantage, as these skills are crucial for the role.

Languages:
For this position, knowledge of English is mandatory, along with proficiency in the UN working language of the duty station, which is English in this case. Familiarity with local languages is also beneficial, as it enhances communication with local stakeholders and communities.

Additional Notes:
This position is a temporary job posting on an invitation-only basis, meaning that only selected candidates will be considered for application. The target start date for this role is October 1, 2026, and the application deadline is August 20, 202

• The position is categorized under the family staff member/affiliate type and does not require functional clearance. It is important to note that all UNHCR staff members are expected to contribute to a safe and respectful working environment, adhering to the organization's core values and principles.