Partnerships Officer
Organizational Context
The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) support countries in achieving development priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). As part of a global reform, the UN Development System aims for more effective and efficient delivery. The Partnerships Officer role is situated within the UN RCO in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, reporting to the UN Resident Coordinator, and contributes to advancing SDGs through strategic partnerships.
Job Purpose
The Partnerships Officer provides crucial advice and support to the UN Resident Coordinator (RC) and the UN Country Team (UNCT) in developing and implementing strategic partnerships to advance the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This role is instrumental in fostering collaborations with government, development partners, civil society, and the private sector. The officer will lead the development of UN Partnership Strategies, support resource mobilization initiatives, and contribute to financing for development options. By building strong interfaces with external stakeholders and promoting innovative engagement, the position aims to enhance the UNCT's effectiveness, reputation, and ability to generate financial resources for SDG achievement, aligning with the UN 2.0 shift.
Responsibilities
The Partnerships Officer is responsible for strategic planning and coordination of UN partnerships with government, development partners, civil society, and the private sector to achieve SDGs. This includes leading the development and implementation of the UN Partnership Strategy, supporting the RC and UNCT in monitoring and assessing strategy effectiveness, and liaising with UN entities to define partnership value propositions. The role involves serving as a key contact for external stakeholders, building strong relationships, identifying partnership risks and opportunities, and providing input on due diligence processes. Additionally, the officer supports joint partnership and resource mobilization initiatives for the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, analyzes funding streams, and advises on corporate policies for resource management. The position also contributes to knowledge management, capacity development, and promotes collaboration by researching best practices and maintaining a repository of potential partnerships.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in strategic partnership support, project/programme management, and resource mobilization within development cooperation is required. Experience in developing and implementing strategic partnerships across government, private sector, and civil society is essential. Experience in resource mobilization strategies and proposal preparation is also required. Experience with inclusion strategies, knowledge management, UN interagency coordination, and applied partnerships in specific thematic areas is desirable.
Skills
• Professionalism in sustainable development theories and research. • Strong planning and organizing abilities. • Effective communication skills, both written and verbal. • Ability to conduct independent research and analysis. • Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation.