External Relations Officer (Donor Relations Officer)
Organizational Context
The International, Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) in Geneva, Switzerland, investigates serious crimes in Syria. This role sits within the Office of the Assistant Secretary-General, reporting to the Chief of Staff. The incumbent will focus on developing and implementing fundraising strategies, building donor partnerships, and monitoring contributions to support the IIIM's mandate.
Job Purpose
The External Relations Officer (Donor Relations Officer) is responsible for developing and implementing comprehensive fundraising strategies to enhance the financial sustainability of the IIIM-Syria. This involves cultivating and maintaining strategic partnerships with current and prospective donors, including governments and intergovernmental organizations. The role requires a deep understanding of donor policies and priorities to identify cooperation opportunities. The incumbent will lead outreach efforts, organize donor briefings, and provide expert advice on resource mobilization to the leadership team and staff. Key responsibilities include negotiating funding arrangements, monitoring contribution utilization, ensuring compliance with reporting obligations, and preparing essential documentation to secure and maintain donor support for the IIIM's critical work.
Responsibilities
Develop and maintain strategic partnerships with current and prospective donors, understanding their policies and identifying cooperation opportunities. Lead fundraising and outreach strategies targeting governments and intergovernmental organizations, and organize donor briefings. Provide strategic advice on fundraising approaches to the leadership team and update donor profiles. Accompany leadership in donor meetings and prepare briefing notes, strategy papers, and correspondence. Monitor the use of contributions, ensuring compliance with UN rules and donor reporting obligations, and prepare narrative reports. Serve as the primary contact for donors, negotiating contributions and funding arrangements. Coordinate presentations of strategies and results to donors and assist in conceptualizing effective communications. Contribute to organizational effectiveness by representing leadership in meetings, participating in budget and work program planning, and assisting the Chief of Staff as needed.
Work Experience
A minimum of seven years of professional experience in human rights, humanitarian, or development work is required, with at least five years specifically in donor relations and resource mobilization within the UN common system. Proven experience in negotiating with donors/governments and in results-based management is essential. Experience related to Syria and with non-traditional donors is desirable.
Skills
Professionalism, strong communication and interpersonal skills, effective negotiation abilities, teamwork, strategic partnership development, fundraising strategy implementation, donor relations management, results-based management, understanding of UN financial rules and regulations, and knowledge of the international donor community.