UN Partnerships Officer

UN Partnerships Officer

United Nations Secretariat

October 18, 2026November 19, 2026HavanaCuba
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was restructured on January 1, 2019, under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General 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 (UN RCO), which are tasked with supporting countries in their development priorities. The Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO) was transformed into a stand-alone office within the UN Secretariat, overseeing the resident coordinator system. The DCO's mission is to ensure that the UN system is optimally configured to support the acceleration of the 2030 Agenda, focusing on data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The UNCT (United Nations Country Team) works collaboratively to achieve SDGs through strategic partnerships with various stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector.

Job Overview:
The UN Partnerships Officer plays a crucial role in supporting the Resident Coordinator and the UN Country Team 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 civil society, the private sector, and other stakeholders. The officer will be responsible for developing and implementing the UN Partnership Strategy, facilitating collaboration among UN entities, and engaging with external stakeholders to foster partnerships that align with the UN's development priorities. The role also includes participating in resource mobilization initiatives and managing pooled funds to support the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The Partnerships Officer will work closely with various teams to promote financing for development and contribute to knowledge management and capacity development related to partnerships and resource mobilization.

Duties and Responsibilities:
  • Provide substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UNCT strategic partnerships with civil society, the private sector, and others for SDG achievement.
  • Advise on the development and implementation of the UN Partnership Strategy in alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework.
  • Support a UNCT working group for effective implementation and monitoring of the strategy.
  • Conduct liaison and coordination with UN entities to define a value proposition for local partnerships.
  • Serve as a key entry point for external stakeholders seeking guidance on partnering with the UNCT.
  • Build strong interfaces with critical development partners, government, and civil society.
  • Provide support in identifying risks and opportunities related to partnerships.
  • Assist in the development and implementation of locally tailored partnerships.
  • Participate in joint partnership and resource mobilization initiatives. 1
  • Monitor and analyze existing resource mobilization partnerships. 1
  • Identify innovative financing instruments to support the Cooperation Framework. 1
  • Contribute to knowledge management and capacity development relating to partnerships and resource mobilization.

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 concepts, 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 also be considered. 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 with stakeholders such as the UN, government, private sector, and civil society organizations is essential. Desirable experience includes inclusion strategies promoting gender equality, youth participation, and disability inclusion, as well as knowledge management in development cooperation and financing for SDGs.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is required for this position. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both languages, meeting the UN Language Framework standards. Knowledge of French is an asset but not mandatory.

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 Cuba only, and candidates must be recruited within the country or commuting distance of the office. If no suitable local candidate is found, Cuban nationals residing elsewhere may be considered. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities may be provided upon request.
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