Parliament and Policy Officer

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 work tirelessly to ensure effective humanitarian assistance reaches millions globally. WFP is committed to diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. The organization has received numerous accolades, including the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, recognizing its efforts in combating hunger and promoting security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">food security.

Job Overview:
The Parliament and Policy Officer will play a crucial role in leading and strengthening WFP's engagement with UK parliamentarians, NGOs, think tanks, and other influential stakeholders. This position requires a proactive approach to expanding and coordinating WFP's network, identifying opportunities for strategic collaboration, and coordinating advocacy efforts that advance humanitarian and development priorities. The successful candidate will be responsible for positioning WFP as a trusted partner and authoritative voice on global hunger and humanitarian response within Parliament, while also monitoring and analyzing party policies on humanitarian and development issues. This role is pivotal in shaping WFP's political and policy engagement in the UK and enhancing support for global efforts to end hunger and respond to humanitarian crises.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key accountabilities for this position include:

• Parliamentary Engagement: Position WFP as a trusted partner within Parliament, monitor and analyze party policies, build and maintain relationships with parliamentarians, coordinate engagement activities, and foster relationships with select committees and parliamentary groups.
• Policy Analysis: Develop a strong overview of WFP’s policy and operational priorities, lead political and policy analysis, monitor policy developments relevant to humanitarian action, and provide timely insights and recommendations.
• Partnerships: Build and maintain relationships with think tanks, civil society organizations, academic institutions, and UN partners to identify collaboration opportunities.
• Deliverables: Consolidate relationships with key stakeholders, develop parliamentary engagement plans, secure opportunities to influence parliamentary debates, and produce briefings and political analysis for WFP leadership.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of UK political dynamics, parliamentary processes, and policymaking. Excellent stakeholder engagement skills are essential, along with the ability to build and manage strategic relationships. Strong writing skills are required for drafting briefings, political analysis, and advocacy materials. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to lead and coordinate multiple workstreams, prioritize competing demands, and deliver results independently. Proven analytical, organizational, and interpersonal skills are also necessary for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced or first university degree in development, business administration, public administration, environment, or related fields is required for this position. This educational background will provide the necessary foundation for understanding the complexities of humanitarian and development issues that WFP addresses.

Experience:
A minimum of three years of relevant working experience in development, policy, or humanitarian response is required. Experience working in parliament, government, or the UK NGO sector is highly desirable. Candidates should have a demonstrable understanding of UK politics and parliament, as well as excellent knowledge of UK parliamentary and governmental structures. An existing network within parliament is also highly desirable, along with the ability to independently manage stakeholder relationships and coordinate engagement strategies.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within WFP and with UK stakeholders. Additional languages may be considered an asset, particularly those relevant to WFP's global operations and partnerships.

Additional Notes:
This position is a consultant role at Level 1, with a contract duration of 11 months. The role is based in London, UK, and offers an attractive compensation package. WFP is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. The organization emphasizes an inclusive work environment free from discrimination and harassment, ensuring that all selected candidates undergo rigorous reference and background checks.