Senior Immigration and Border Governance (IBG) Specialist
Organizational Context
IOM, established in 1951, is a leading UN agency promoting humane and orderly migration. It collaborates with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners to save lives, protect migrants, and facilitate regular migration pathways. The organization fosters an inclusive workplace to harness migration's full potential. This role operates under the Sub-Regional Director for Southern Africa, contributing to IOM's Immigration and Border Governance (IBG) portfolio.
Job Purpose
The Senior Immigration and Border Governance (IBG) Specialist will provide strategic leadership, technical expertise, programme development support, and partnership engagement to advance IOM's IBG portfolio across Southern Africa. This role is crucial for coordinating regional initiatives, supporting resource mobilization, and promoting integrated border governance approaches aligned with IOM's Strategic Plan and IBG Framework. The specialist will advise governments and regional institutions, lead programme design and implementation, and foster collaboration to enhance border management systems while upholding human rights and international standards. The position aims to strengthen IOM's technical leadership in border governance within the region.
Responsibilities
The Senior IBG Specialist will provide strategic leadership and technical advice on immigration and border governance programming, advising governments and regional bodies on policies, modernization, and management systems. This includes developing regional and national strategies and promoting integrated approaches. The role involves leading the design, development, and oversight of IBG programmes and projects, ensuring consistency with IOM standards and methodologies, and developing project proposals and reports. Significant focus will be placed on resource mobilization by identifying funding opportunities and building strategic partnerships with governments, regional bodies, and donors. The specialist will also serve as the primary technical focal point, supporting engagement with regional mechanisms like SADC, and facilitating dialogue and capacity-building. Additionally, the role entails leading assessments, delivering technical assistance, promoting technology adoption, and coordinating IBG activities across country offices, while also managing personnel and monitoring project implementation.
Work Experience
Requires a minimum of nine years of progressive experience in Immigration and Border Governance, Migration Management, Border Security, or Identity Management (seven years with a Master's degree). Experience working with governments, regional organizations, and international partners is essential. Demonstrated experience in programme development, resource mobilization, and providing policy/technical advice at a senior government level is necessary. Experience managing multi-country or regional programmes, particularly in Africa with familiarity with SADC issues, and with border management technologies, is highly desirable.
Skills
Demonstrated strategic planning and analytical skills. Ability to lead complex technical programmes. Strong drafting and proposal development capabilities. Effective work in multicultural environments. Sound knowledge of migration governance and border management trends. Proven coordination and partnership-building skills.