Humanitarian Affairs Officer (Liaison Officer)
Organizational Context
The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) is part of the UN Secretariat, responsible for coordinating humanitarian actors to ensure coherent responses to emergencies. OCHA's mission is to mobilize and coordinate effective humanitarian action, advocate for those in need, and promote preparedness. This role is based in Bamako, Mali, within the Crisis and Response Division, reporting to the Head of the Coordination and Operations Unit.
Job Purpose
The Humanitarian Affairs Officer (Liaison Officer) monitors and reports on humanitarian developments and emergency situations in the assigned area. This role is crucial for managing the preparation and organization of Humanitarian Coordinator (HC) and Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) meetings, including briefing materials and agendas. The incumbent will facilitate the implementation of HCT decisions and support HC missions. Additionally, the role involves preparing studies on humanitarian issues, coordinating international assistance for complex emergencies, drafting situation reports, and liaising with various stakeholders including government officials, UN agencies, NGOs, and media. The position also contributes to planning and evaluating humanitarian programs, producing appeals for assistance, and ensuring the proper use of donor funds, all while upholding humanitarian principles and facilitating effective aid delivery.
Responsibilities
Monitor, analyze, and report on humanitarian developments and emergency situations. Manage the preparation of briefing materials and agendas for Humanitarian Country Team (HCT) meetings. Oversee the implementation of HCT decisions and facilitate mission organization, including reports and talking points. Conduct studies on humanitarian and emergency relief issues, organizing follow-up meetings for policy development. Participate in disaster assessments and coordinate international humanitarian assistance, drafting situation reports and specifying unmet needs. Collaborate with humanitarian agencies to plan and evaluate programs, incorporating lessons learned and gender considerations. Assist in producing appeals for international assistance and ensure proper fund utilization. Establish and maintain contacts with government officials, UN agencies, NGOs, diplomatic missions, and media. Support technical assistance and field missions, conducting in-depth reviews of coordination mechanisms. Prepare various written reports, documents, and communications. Serve as a focal point on specific policy issues, providing information and advice. Review and advise on policies related to humanitarian principles and aid delivery. Organize and participate in work groups, meetings, and conferences. Provide guidance and supervision to junior staff.
Work Experience
A minimum of five years of progressive experience in humanitarian affairs, emergency preparedness, crisis management, or related fields is required. Field experience in emergency situations (complex emergencies or natural disasters) is essential. Experience within the UN common system or a comparable international organization is desirable, as is experience in the Central Sahel region.
Skills
Professionalism, communication, planning, and organizing. Ability to analyze humanitarian issues, conduct research, work under pressure, and apply judgment. Effective speaking and writing skills, active listening, and clear communication. Ability to set goals, prioritize tasks, manage time efficiently, and anticipate risks.