Partnerships Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This reform led to the establishment of the UN Resident Coordinator Offices (RCO), which operate under the leadership of an independent UN Resident Coordinator. The RCOs are tasked with supporting countries in meeting their development priorities and advancing the SDGs. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the Resident Coordinator System and ensuring it is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda. The DCO emphasizes data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven organizational culture. The position of Partnerships Officer is located in the UN RCO in Praia, Cabo Verde, and reports to the Head of RCO.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the UN Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team (UNCT) in establishing and managing strategic partnerships aimed at achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This position involves providing substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of partnerships with various stakeholders, including civil society, development partners, and the private sector. The officer will assist in the development and implementation of the UN Partnership Strategy, ensuring alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The role requires active participation in joint partnership initiatives and resource mobilization efforts, contributing to the management of pooled funds for the Cooperation Framework. The Partnerships Officer will also work closely with finance experts to promote financing for development and will engage in knowledge management and capacity development related to partnerships and resource mobilization at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Officer will be responsible for a variety of duties, including:

• Providing substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UNCT partnerships focused on SDG achievement.
• Advising on and supporting the development and implementation of the UN Partnership Strategy.
• Conducting liaison and coordination with UN entities to define a value proposition for local partnerships.
• Leading the Secretariat of the Development Partners Group (DPG) and organizing meetings.
• Supporting the Resident Coordinator in identifying risks and opportunities related to partnerships.
• Participating in resource mobilization initiatives and managing pooled funds.
• Advising on financing for development options and preparing briefing papers on partnership issues.
• Contributing to knowledge management and capacity development related to partnerships.
• Collecting and analyzing data to identify trends and provide insights for decision-making. 1
• Performing other related tasks as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in strategic support to partnerships, project/programme management, and resource mobilization in development cooperation. Experience in developing strategic partnerships across various sectors, including government, private sector, and civil society, is essential. Knowledge of inclusion strategies promoting gender equality, youth participation, and disability inclusion is desirable. Candidates should also have experience in designing and implementing partnerships and resource mobilization strategies, as well as familiarity with UN interagency coordination and knowledge management in the context of SDG implementation.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, sustainable development, social sciences, education, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is an advantage.

Experience:
A minimum of five years of relevant experience is required, with a track record in strategic support to partnerships, project/programme management, and resource mobilization. Experience in developing strategic partnerships and implementing inclusion strategies is desirable. Familiarity with UN interagency coordination and knowledge management in development cooperation is also beneficial. Experience in data analytics is a plus.

Languages:
English and Portuguese are the required working languages for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in both languages, with a minimum level of proficiency as per the UN Language Framework. English is required at UN Level II for reading, writing, listening, and speaking, and the same applies to Portuguese.

Additional Notes:
This is a Fixed Term position for a duration of one year, with no expectation of renewal. The position is open to nationals of Cabo Verde only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidates are found, Cabo Verde nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.