Partnerships Officer

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Partnerships Officer
Location: New York
Country: United States
Deadline Date: 13 March 2025-23:59-GMT-05:00 Eastern Time (New York)

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world’s largest humanitarian organization dedicated to saving lives in emergencies and using food assistance to build pathways to peace, stability, and prosperity for people recovering from conflict, disasters, and the impacts of climate change. Established in 1961, WFP operates in over 70 countries, employing thousands of staff members who are committed to the mission of eradicating hunger. WFP's vision emphasizes diversity, inclusion, and the importance of a healthy work environment, where employees are selected based on merit and are encouraged to grow professionally and personally. WFP has been recognized for its efforts, notably being awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2020, and continues to strive towards its goal of Zero Hunger by engaging in various partnerships and initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Officer role at WFP is a pivotal position that focuses on enhancing WFP's engagement with public, private, and external partners, particularly faith-based and humanitarian organizations. This role is designed to attract policy support, resources, technical assistance, and innovative solutions that advance WFP's mission. The officer will work closely with WFP USA and other member states to promote the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the Zero Hunger initiative. The position requires a strategic mindset to effectively position WFP's corporate value proposition and manage a portfolio of partnerships that align with the organization's goals. The officer will also be responsible for fostering collaborative relationships and ensuring that WFP's contributions are recognized in the broader context of humanitarian efforts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Partnerships Officer will be responsible for several key accountabilities, including:

• Contributing to the positioning of WFP with strategic partners, particularly in relation to faith-based and private sector partners, by tailoring content and language to specific audiences.
• Managing a portfolio of strategic cash and technical partnerships, ensuring alignment with WFP's strategic goals.
• Supporting business development efforts by researching and screening potential corporate partners and developing engagement strategies.
• Leading the implementation of work plans and managing relationships with key partners to secure funding opportunities.
• Identifying opportunities to expand existing partnerships and deepen collaboration on common priorities.
• Supervising and mentoring direct reports to ensure they meet partner needs and expectations.
• Facilitating corporate dialogue with partners and presenting recommendations to senior management.
• Organizing private-sector-based events and engaging with organizations that can advance WFP's objectives.
• Coordinating high-level visits and engagements in the US, ensuring strategic alignment and effective communication with stakeholders.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in partnership development, business development, and fundraising, particularly with large-scale corporations. They should have significant experience working with faith-based and humanitarian organizations, demonstrating an understanding of their operational frameworks and values. A proven track record in managing multi-million-dollar partnerships and navigating complex stakeholder relationships is essential. Candidates should also have expertise in assessing partnership ROI, conducting market research, and negotiating high-value partnerships. Strong communication and advocacy skills are necessary, along with the ability to manage cross-cultural teams and projects.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in Political Science, International Development, Development Economics, International Relations, Law, Marketing, Communications, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first university degree with additional years of relevant work experience and/or training may be accepted.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant experience in partnership development, business development, and fundraising. Experience should include managing complex stakeholder relationships and negotiating terms with key partners. A demonstrated ability to build and sustain long-term relationships across various sectors and geographies is crucial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, with a strong command of a second official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, Spanish, or Portuguese) being advantageous. Intermediate knowledge of a second language is preferred.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as an International Professional role and is open to candidates of all nationalities. The selected candidate will be employed on a limited fixed-term contract for two years, which is renewable. The position is based in New York, USA, and candidates will be expected to relocate. WFP offers a competitive compensation and benefits package, including a basic salary, post adjustment, relocation entitlement, and various allowances. Employees are entitled to 30 days of annual leave, home leave, an education grant for dependent children, a pension plan, and medical insurance. WFP is committed to providing an inclusive work environment and supports individuals with disabilities by offering reasonable accommodations throughout the recruitment process.