UN Partnerships Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, to enhance its effectiveness in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in this reform, led by an empowered UN Resident Coordinator who represents the UN Secretary-General at the country level. 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 Partnerships Officer is a key role within this framework, advising on strategic partnerships and resource mobilization for SDG acceleration.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer is responsible for leading the development and implementation of partnership and resource mobilization strategies to support the UN's Cooperation Framework priorities. This role involves cultivating relationships with development partners and non-traditional stakeholders, mobilizing financing, and collective action for SDG acceleration. The officer will work closely with the UN Country Team (UNCT) and the Resident Coordinator to ensure effective engagement with various stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the private sector. The position requires a strong understanding of policy analysis, financing assessments, and the ability to build partnerships that align with national development priorities.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Officer will provide substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UNCT partnerships, lead the development of the UN Partnership Strategy, and monitor its implementation. Responsibilities include conducting liaison with UN entities, building relationships with development partners, leading due diligence processes for investment opportunities, and supporting the identification of initiatives that connect private sector innovation with national priorities. The officer will also participate in joint resource mobilization initiatives, support the management of pooled funds, and work closely with the RCO Economist to promote partnerships that support financing for SDGs. Additionally, the officer will contribute to knowledge management and capacity development related to partnerships and resource mobilization.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of five years of progressively responsible experience in strategic support to partnerships, project management, and resource mobilization in development cooperation. Experience in developing and leading strategic partnerships across various sectors is essential, along with skills in multi-stakeholder coordination and project proposal preparation. Familiarity with UN interagency coordination and South-South cooperation is desirable, as is experience in promoting knowledge management and financing strategies for the SDGs.

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 programs in Data Analytics, Business Analytics, or Data Science is an advantage.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in strategic partnerships, project management, and resource mobilization. Candidates should have a proven track record in developing partnerships across government, private sector, and civil society, as well as experience in preparing project proposals and resource mobilization strategies. Experience in UN interagency coordination and knowledge management in development cooperation is desirable.

Languages:
English and Spanish are required for this position. English is required at UN Level II, while Spanish is required at UN Level III, indicating a high proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking.

Additional Notes:
This is a fixed-term position for an initial period of one year, subject to availability of funds and budgetary approval. The position is open only to nationals of Paraguay, and candidates residing outside Paraguay may be considered if no suitable local candidates are found. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Staff members are expected to adhere to the highest standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.