Partnerships Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The International Rescue Committee (IRC) has been operational in Syria since 2012, focusing on providing essential services such as protection, health, economic recovery, and early childhood development across various governorates. The organization has a strong commitment to adapting its programming and operational models to meet the evolving needs of the communities it serves. With a focus on recovery, resilience, systems strengthening, and locally led approaches, IRC Syria emphasizes the importance of partnerships in delivering impactful programming. The organization collaborates with local and national entities, government bodies, and other stakeholders to enhance local solutions and improve community outcomes.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Coordinator is responsible for leading the strategic development and management of IRC Syria's partnership portfolio. This role is crucial in ensuring that partnerships are purposeful, equitable, and aligned with the Country Program Strategy and IRC's partnership principles. The Coordinator will work to transition IRC Syria from a transactional partnership model to one that fosters relationships aimed at strengthening local leadership and organizational capacity. This position requires collaboration with various departments, including Senior Management, Programs, Grants, MEAL, Finance, and Supply Chain, to ensure that partnership considerations are integrated throughout the project lifecycle, from strategy and design to implementation and evaluation. The role also involves providing strategic leadership to the Partnerships team and ensuring compliance with IRC PEER and donor requirements while promoting a culture that values partners as key contributors to program success.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Lead the implementation and review of IRC Syria's partnership strategy, ensuring alignment with the Country Program Strategy.
• Develop and maintain a strategic partnership portfolio, including criteria for partner selection and management.
• Conduct regular mapping and analysis of local and national actors to identify their roles and contributions to IRC's objectives.
• Ensure partnership considerations inform program design and implementation planning.
• Identify opportunities for strategic partnerships and locally led initiatives.
• Collaborate with Programs, MEAL, and Grants to ensure learning from partnerships informs future program design.
• Advise senior management on partnership opportunities and risks.
• Promote mutual accountability and shared ownership in partnerships.
• Support partner participation throughout the project cycle. 1
• Lead capacity strengthening initiatives for partners. 1
• Oversee the partnership lifecycle, ensuring compliance with IRC and donor requirements. 1
• Monitor partnership performance and incorporate partner feedback into practices. 1
• Represent IRC Syria in relevant forums and build relationships with partners and stakeholders. 1
• Provide leadership and development for the Partnerships team, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, development studies, international relations, business administration, or a related field. Equivalent professional experience may also be considered. The role requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, including substantial experience in managing partnerships, grants, and localization within the humanitarian or development sector. At least 3 years of experience in a management or senior coordination role is essential, along with demonstrated experience in developing strategic partnerships with various stakeholders. Strong analytical, negotiation, and relationship-management skills are necessary, as well as the ability to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and make sound decisions in a dynamic environment.

Educational Background:
A Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, development studies, international relations, business administration, or a relevant field is required. Equivalent professional experience may be considered in lieu of formal education.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant professional experience, including significant experience in managing partnerships, grants, and localization efforts within the humanitarian or development sectors. Candidates should have at least 3 years of experience in a management or senior coordination role, demonstrating the ability to supervise staff and manage strategic portfolios effectively. Experience in developing and managing partnerships with local and national organizations, government institutions, and civil society is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic and English, both written and spoken, is mandatory for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Damascus, Syria, and may involve travel of at least 30%. The IRC encourages national or returning national candidates to apply, offering an attractive remuneration package that includes competitive compensation, return flights, shipping allowances, temporary housing, and relocation allowances. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace, promoting gender equality, and ensuring a safe work environment free from discrimination and harassment. IRC adheres to professional standards and values, emphasizing integrity, service, accountability, and equality.