Partnerships Officer
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO), part of the UN Secretariat's Development Operations Coordination Office (DCO), support countries in achieving development priorities and SDGs. This reform-driven system, recalibrated in 2026, emphasizes data, digital innovation, and a mission-driven culture. The Partnerships Officer, based in Panama City, supports the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team (UNCT) in strategic partnerships for SDG achievement.
Job Purpose
The Partnerships Officer provides crucial support to the Resident Coordinator and UN Country Team (UNCT) in developing and implementing strategic partnerships to advance Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This role involves advising on partnership strategies, coordinating with diverse stakeholders including government, civil society, and the private sector, and facilitating resource mobilization. The officer plays a key part in identifying and nurturing opportunities for collaboration, ensuring alignment with UN frameworks, and contributing to the UN's overall effectiveness in achieving national development priorities. The position is integral to strengthening the UN's engagement and impact at the country level, fostering innovative approaches to partnerships and financing for development.
Responsibilities
The Partnerships Officer is responsible for providing substantive support for strategic planning and coordination of UNCT strategic partnerships with national institutions, civil society, and the private sector to achieve SDGs. This includes leading the formulation and implementation of UN Partnership Strategies, supporting UNCT working groups, and liaising with UN entities. The role involves serving as a key point of contact for external stakeholders, building interfaces for advocacy, and advising on partnership risks and due diligence. Additionally, the officer participates in joint partnership and resource mobilization initiatives, supports the management of pooled funds, and develops locally tailored resource mobilization strategies. They also work with RCO economists to promote partnerships for SDG financing, contribute to advocacy and dialogues, and design innovative proposals. The role includes contributing to knowledge management, capacity development, and promoting best practices in partnerships and resource mobilization across the UN system.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in strategic partnership support, project management, and resource mobilization within development cooperation is required. Experience in developing partnerships across government, private sector, IFIs, academia, and civil society is essential. Proven success in formulating joint programming and mobilizing innovative partnerships and financing is necessary. Experience in designing and implementing partnerships and resource mobilization strategies, including South-South cooperation, is required. Experience in UN interagency coordination, data analytics, and promoting knowledge management is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, Planning and Organizing, Communication, Teamwork, Client Orientation, Strategic Partnership Development, Resource Mobilization, Project Management, Stakeholder Engagement, Data Analysis, Knowledge Management, Interagency Coordination.