Senior Donor Relations Officer (Asia)

Organizational Context

UNRWA is the largest United Nations operation in the Middle East, employing over 30,000 staff across five areas. The agency seeks committed personnel to make a tangible difference for vulnerable communities. The Senior Donor Relations Officer (Asia) role reports directly to the Director of Partnerships, contributing to the agency's mission.

Job Purpose

The Senior Donor Relations Officer (Asia) plays a crucial role in developing and implementing the region's external relations and fundraising strategy. This position involves managing key donor relationships across Asia, ensuring high responsiveness and service levels. The officer actively seeks innovative funding opportunities from public and private donors, providing strategic counsel to senior management, including the Director of Partnerships and Director of External Relations. Key responsibilities include negotiating agreements, drafting and reviewing project proposals, and producing essential briefing materials for high-level officials to support fundraising and advocacy efforts.

Responsibilities

Develop and implement regional external relations and fundraising strategies. Manage and nurture relationships with key donors in Asia, ensuring high responsiveness and service. Proactively identify and pursue innovative funding opportunities from public and private sources. Provide strategic counsel to the Director of Partnerships, Director of External Relations, and senior management. Negotiate bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) with donors. Draft and negotiate project proposals in collaboration with field offices. Analyze, review, and edit project proposals and progress reports. Draft fundraising and advocacy correspondence. Produce briefing materials and talking points for senior leadership. Promote and execute the Agency’s Resource Mobilization Strategy. Organize and participate in senior-level missions to donor capitals and key meetings. Coordinate donor field trips and manage visibility plans. Contribute to fundraising documents, appeals, and departmental reports. Ensure proactive coordination with relevant departments and offices on contributions and donor-funded projects.

Work Experience

A minimum of seven years of progressive, relevant experience in donor relations and fundraising for a national or international organization is required, with a proven track record in fundraising within Asia. At least five years of experience managing mid-size teams is also required. Experience with major Asian donors, knowledge of UNRWA and the UN system, and proficiency in a second UN language are desirable.

Skills

UN Core Values: Integrity, Professionalism, Respect for Diversity. Core Competencies: Communication, Working with People, Drive for Results. Functional Competencies: Creating and Innovating, Planning and Organizing, Analyzing. Leadership Competencies: Creating and Maintaining Impact and Partnership, Managing Complexity and Change.

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