UN Partnerships Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System, reformed as of January 1, 2019, aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the UN in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO) play a crucial role in supporting countries to meet their development priorities under the leadership of the UN Resident Coordinator, who is the highest-ranking UN official at the country level. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) oversees the resident coordinator system and ensures alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Group's objectives. The DCO has undergone recalibration to better support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The Partnerships Officer position is integral to this mission, providing strategic advice and support for partnerships aimed at achieving the SDGs.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer will be responsible for providing substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UN Country Team (UNCT) partnerships aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This role involves advising on the development and implementation of the UN Partnership Strategy, supporting inter-agency efforts for monitoring and reporting on Joint Workplans, and liaising with various stakeholders, including the private sector and civil society. The officer will also assist in identifying risks and opportunities related to partnerships, contribute to resource mobilization initiatives, and promote knowledge management and capacity development in the context of partnerships and resource mobilization. The position requires a proactive approach to building relationships with external stakeholders and ensuring effective engagement in financing for development.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Provide substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UNCT partnerships for SDG achievement, including advice on the UN Partnership Strategy and monitoring of Joint Workplans.
• Liaise with UN entities and external stakeholders to package and define value propositions for local partnerships.
• Support the Resident Coordinator and UNCT in identifying risks and opportunities related to partnerships, and provide inputs on due diligence processes.
• Participate in joint partnership and resource mobilization initiatives, developing locally tailored strategies and monitoring existing partnerships.
• Work closely with finance experts to promote partnership initiatives that support financing for the SDGs.
• Contribute to knowledge management and capacity development, promoting collaboration and sharing best practices within the UN system.
• Collect and analyze data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making.
• Perform other duties as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, sustainable development, social sciences, education, or a related area. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate a strong understanding of sustainable development theories and practices, as well as the ability to conduct independent research and analysis.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in relevant fields such as business or public administration, sustainable development, social sciences, or education is required. A first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in strategic support to partnerships, project/programme management, and resource mobilization in development cooperation is required. Experience in developing strategic partnerships across various sectors, including government, private sector, and civil society, is essential. Candidates should also have experience in designing and implementing partnerships, as well as knowledge of UN interagency coordination and resource mobilization strategies. Experience in data analytics and promoting knowledge management in development cooperation is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Arabic is required for this position, with proficiency in French considered an asset. Candidates must demonstrate a high level of competency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both English and Arabic, as per the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position with an initial appointment period of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open to nationals of Bahrain only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidate is found, Bahraini nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.