Partnership Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services) is a UN organization that supports the successful implementation of peacebuilding, humanitarian, and development projects globally. Established to enhance the ability of the United Nations and its partners to manage projects, infrastructure, and procurement sustainably and efficiently, UNOPS operates in over 80 countries with a workforce of over 7,000 personnel. The organization is committed to advancing sustainable implementation practices and meeting or exceeding the expectations of its partners. UNOPS plays a crucial role in various sectors, including mine action through its Peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security Cluster (PSC), which collaborates with UNMAS, UNDP, UNICEF, and other partners to address explosive hazards and support peacekeeping missions.

Job Overview:
The Partnership Specialist will be instrumental in expanding and managing strategic partnerships to enhance resource mobilization, donor engagement, and advocacy efforts for the UNMAS Somalia program. This role involves identifying funding opportunities, coordinating outreach initiatives, and ensuring alignment between UNMAS Somalia's program objectives and partner priorities. The specialist will develop and implement a comprehensive partnership and program development plan, reflecting the strategic plans of UNOPS/UNMAS, and will work closely with various stakeholders to ensure coherent interactions and effective collaboration. The position requires a proactive approach to monitoring humanitarian and development trends, identifying areas for collaboration, and contributing to the design and negotiation of new projects and programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop a comprehensive partnership and program development plan aligned with UNOPS/UNMAS strategic objectives, including analysis of the regional and national landscape and identification of key partners.
• Monitor humanitarian and development trends to identify collaboration opportunities within the UNOPS/UNMAS mandate.
• Establish and develop partnerships with UN agencies, international organizations, governments, and NGOs to diversify project opportunities.
• Participate in inter-agency coordination meetings and contribute to UN common planning processes.
• Implement knowledge management practices to enhance project and partnership development effectiveness.
• Draft agreements and contractual documents for new projects, ensuring compliance with UNOPS guidelines.
• Collaborate with communications personnel to gather content for outreach materials.
• Provide feedback on existing systems and tools to improve operational relevance.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent with at least 5 years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor's degree with 7 years of relevant experience. Relevant experience includes developing and executing partnership and program development plans in international development settings, establishing partnerships with UN agencies and NGOs, and project proposal development. Experience in project and program management is desired, along with familiarity with Google Suite and web-based management systems. Candidates with no prior UN or UNOPS experience are encouraged to apply, and qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply as well.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field is required, along with 5 years of relevant experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor's degree with 7 years of relevant experience is acceptable. The educational background should be in areas related to international development, project management, or a similar field that supports the responsibilities of the Partnership Specialist.

Experience:
The position requires relevant experience in developing and executing partnership and program development plans within international development contexts. Candidates should have experience in project proposal development and establishing partnerships with various stakeholders, including UN agencies, governments, and NGOs. Experience in project and program management is preferred, as well as familiarity with working in post-disaster or emergency contexts. Proficiency in using Google Suite and web-based management systems is considered an advantage.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, encompassing speaking, reading, and writing skills. Proficiency in one or more additional official UNOPS languages is desirable, enhancing communication and collaboration with diverse stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The contract type is a Staff Contract at the P3 level, with an initial duration of one year, subject to renewal based on satisfactory performance and funding availability. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and equal employment opportunities, encouraging applications from qualified women and underrepresented groups. The organization conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks. Candidates are advised that applications received after the closing date will not be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments.