Partnerships Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) is an operational arm of the United Nations, established to support the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. UNOPS aims to help people build better lives and assist countries in achieving sustainable development. The organization specializes in various areas, including infrastructure, procurement, project management, financial management, and human resources. UNOPS operates in multiple countries, providing essential services to its partners and stakeholders.

Job Overview:
The Partnerships Specialist is a crucial member of the UNOPS Amman Operational Hub’s Partnership team, which oversees operations in Jordan, Yemen, Iraq, Lebanon, and Syria. This position is based in Amman, Jordan, and involves some travel. The Partnerships Specialist will work under the guidance of the Partnerships Advisor and in close coordination with the Head of Programme. The primary responsibilities include developing partnerships, strategic positioning, and managing programme portfolios. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying and fostering partnerships that align with UNOPS's mission and objectives, ensuring that the Amman Hub effectively contributes to the organization's overall goals.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Partnership and Programme Development Planning: Develop a comprehensive partnership and programme development plan aligned with UNOPS's Strategic Plan, considering the country context and regional development landscape. Identify key partners and strategic positioning opportunities for UNOPS, ensuring the plan reflects in-house capacities and project typologies. Propose responses to risks and opportunities to ensure sustainable growth and coordinate with relevant personnel for coherent interactions with partners.
• Develop Opportunities: Monitor humanitarian and development trends to identify collaboration areas within UNOPS's mandate. Research and track potential partnership opportunities, providing feedback on framework partnership agreements. Contribute to project design and negotiation processes, drafting necessary documents and agreements for project implementation.
• Inter-agency Partnership: Establish and develop partnerships with UN agencies, international organizations, and other stakeholders to diversify project opportunities. Participate in inter-agency coordination meetings and contribute to UN common planning processes, building a network of key partners and staying informed about evolving trends.
• Knowledge Management and Innovation: Implement standards and tools provided by HQ to enhance partnership and project development. Contribute to best practices and innovative approaches, helping build capacity among project managers and sharing lessons learned for continuous improvement.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Public Administration, International Development, Political Science, Communications, International Relations, or Social Sciences. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s degree combined with an additional 2 years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the Master’s degree. Candidates should demonstrate strong analytical and strategic thinking skills, with the ability to develop and implement effective partnership strategies and project proposals.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field is required, with a focus on areas such as Public Administration, International Development, Political Science, Communications, International Relations, or Social Sciences. A Bachelor’s degree with additional relevant experience may also be considered acceptable. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and partnership management.

Experience:
At least 5 years of experience in international development is required, with demonstrated experience in developing and implementing partnership strategies, project development, and proposal writing. Candidates should have a proven track record of establishing partnerships with UN agencies, international development organizations, and other stakeholders. Experience in international organizations, particularly in post-disaster or emergency contexts, is essential, along with familiarity with inter-agency coordination and planning mechanisms. Prior experience in the Middle East is considered an asset.

Languages:
Full working knowledge of English is essential for this position, as it is the primary language of communication within UNOPS. Fluency in Arabic is highly advantageous, as it facilitates better engagement with local partners and stakeholders in the region.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is International ICA, at the level of IICA-

• The contract duration is open-ended, subject to organizational requirements, availability of funds, and satisfactory performance. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups. The organization is committed to creating an inclusive working environment and will provide reasonable accommodations for shortlisted candidates during the assessment process. UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised position if necessary.