Strategic Advocacy Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) is the lead agency of the United Nations focused on reproductive health and rights, population dynamics, and gender equality. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a mission to ensure that every pregnancy is intended, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. The organization is committed to advancing the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) agenda and achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 203

• UNFPA employs a diverse workforce of over 4,000 staff members who work collaboratively to address complex global challenges related to population and development.

Job Overview:
The Strategic advisor" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Advocacy Advisor will play a pivotal role in transforming the regional communications and advocacy function of UNFPA into a strategic, outward-facing, and impact-driven platform. Reporting directly to the Regional Director, the advisor will work closely with various divisions at Headquarters and the newly established Strategic Partnerships and Innovative Financing Advisor. The primary goal of this position is to ensure that advocacy, financing, and external engagement are aligned to maximize influence and mobilize diverse resources. The advisor will be responsible for leading high-level policy dialogue, developing compelling narratives, and integrating advocacy strategies with resource mobilization efforts. This role is crucial for ensuring that UNFPA's messaging is compelling, consistent, and evidence-driven, allowing the organization to effectively advocate for its mandate across the Arab States region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Strategic Advocacy Advisor will be responsible for leading high-level regional policy and intergovernmental advocacy, including engaging with bodies such as the League of Arab States and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa. The advisor will integrate population dynamics and sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) priorities into regional development agendas, provide strategic advice on political sensitivities, and support UNFPA Country Offices in influencing domestic legislation and national budgets. Additionally, the advisor will develop compelling narratives and advocacy messages, enhance UNFPA's digital presence, and ensure that communications are embedded in advocacy strategies. The role also involves tailoring advocacy strategies for women and girls in conflict zones, integrating communications with resource mobilization, and cultivating strategic networks to champion family planning and gender equality.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in communications, journalism, media studies, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, advocacy, or public affairs within international development is required. Demonstrated expertise in advocacy campaigns, social norm change, and political communications is essential. Experience in integrating communications with resource mobilization is desirable, along with proven experience in digital advocacy and innovative communications tools. Candidates should have the ability to navigate complex political environments and build consensus on sensitive gender and SRHR topics.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in communications, journalism, media studies, international relations, or other relevant fields is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of advocacy and communications in the context of international development and human rights.

Experience:
The position requires at least 10 years of progressively responsible experience in communications, advocacy, or public affairs, particularly within the realm of international development. Candidates should have a proven track record of leading advocacy campaigns and navigating complex political environments, as well as experience in integrating communications with resource mobilization efforts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required, while fluency in Arabic is strongly preferred. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing the advisor's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders across the region.

Additional Notes:
This position offers an attractive remuneration package, including a competitive net salary, health insurance, and other benefits. UNFPA promotes a work environment that reflects values of gender equality, diversity, integrity, and a healthy work-life balance. The organization encourages applications from women, LGBTQIA+ individuals, minority ethnic groups, indigenous populations, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups. Reasonable accommodations may be provided to applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process. UNFPA is committed to equal opportunities in terms of appointment, training, compensation, and selection for all candidates.