Consultancy Humanitarian Diplomacy Advisor

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Position Title: Consultancy Humanitarian Diplomacy Advisor
Location: remote
Country: United States
Deadline Date: Pending donor approval

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
Mercy Corps is a global humanitarian organization that helps people in the world's toughest places survive the crises they confront and turn them into opportunities for progress. Established in 1979, Mercy Corps operates in over 40 countries, employing more than 5,000 staff members. The organization focuses on various sectors, including economic development, health, education, and humanitarian assistance, aiming to alleviate suffering and foster sustainable development. Their mission is to alleviate suffering, poverty, and oppression by helping people build secure, productive, and just communities. Mercy Corps is committed to working with local partners and communities to ensure that their programs are effective and culturally appropriate, and they strive to empower individuals and communities to take charge of their own development. The organization has a strong emphasis on innovation and learning, continuously adapting their approaches based on evidence and feedback from the communities they serve.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position focuses on enhancing humanitarian diplomacy and engagement with Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Member States, particularly in the context of the ongoing international armed conflict between Ukraine and the Russian Federation. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a comprehensive stakeholder mapping exercise to identify key actors within the humanitarian and policy landscapes of Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. This role requires the development of a strategic engagement strategy aimed at strengthening humanitarian diplomacy and cooperation with Gulf actors. The consultant will also be tasked with organizing and facilitating high-level meetings and dialogues to foster trust and collaboration among stakeholders. The position is expected to take over 75 working days between May and August 2025, with a focus on delivering actionable recommendations and establishing Mercy Corps as a trusted partner in humanitarian efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities, including:

• Conducting a stakeholder mapping exercise to identify and assess key actors within the humanitarian and policy landscapes of Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. This analysis will include mapping out different state units, their mandates, interests, and levels of influence.
• Designing a clear, time-bound engagement strategy based on the stakeholder analysis, outlining priority entry points and tailored approaches for different stakeholders.
• Developing and executing an action plan with measurable milestones to ensure sustained interaction with GCC stakeholders.
• Providing concrete recommendations on enhancing humanitarian diplomacy through a series of actions, presenting a roadmap for continued engagement and ensuring long-term impact.
• Establishing and maintaining relationships with key stakeholders, positioning Mercy Corps as a trusted thought partner.
• Organizing and facilitating a series of online meetings and at least two high-level meetings with key stakeholders to ensure strategic dialogues that foster trust and cooperation.
• Acting as a bridge to leverage diplomatic networks and cultivate sustained dialogue and partnerships.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of proven experience in multilateralism, diplomacy, or humanitarian engagement within the Gulf region, with a strong focus on Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi. Candidates must demonstrate a proven understanding of the ways of working of different GCC capitals, including their institutional cultures and approaches to international cooperation. A track record of establishing and maintaining relationships and facilitating high-level events is essential. The ability to develop and execute effective engagement strategies leveraging diplomatic channels is crucial. Additionally, candidates should possess a strong and updated network of relationships across the Gulf region, cultural sensitivity, and the ability to navigate complex political and social environments. The desired qualifications include a university degree in relevant fields, a strong understanding of diplomatic protocols, and strong research, writing, and analytical skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates should hold a university degree in international affairs, international development, political science, global peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, humanitarian affairs, international public policy, or a related field. This educational background is essential to understand the complexities of humanitarian diplomacy and the political landscape of the Gulf region.

Experience:
Candidates must have at least 10 years of relevant experience in multilateralism, diplomacy, or humanitarian engagement, particularly within the Gulf region. This experience should include a strong focus on the capitals of Riyadh, Doha, and Abu Dhabi, demonstrating the ability to navigate and engage with various stakeholders effectively.

Languages:
Fluency in Arabic is desired, as it will facilitate effective communication in both professional and informal settings. Proficiency in English is also essential, as it is the primary language of communication within the organization and for international engagements. Additional languages may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
This consultancy position is pending project approval and is expected to be conducted remotely. The total consultancy duration is 75 working days, scheduled between May and August 202

• Candidates are required to submit a comprehensive application package, including a CV, cover letter, summary of relevant relationships within Gulf humanitarian and political circles, and a financial proposal detailing costs associated with the consultancy. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, and failure to submit any required documents may result in disqualification.