Director, Cities Alliance

Organizational Context

The Cities Alliance, hosted by UNOPS, is a global partnership dedicated to advancing urban development and poverty reduction. Headquartered in Brussels, it operates through a Secretariat supported by a diverse membership. The organization focuses on grant-making, promoting citywide planning, slum upgrading, climate action, and inclusive urban economies. It plays a key role in fostering coherence in international development and addressing the needs of the urban poor, particularly women.

Job Purpose

The Director will lead the Cities Alliance to be a recognized global leader in inclusive urban development. This involves strengthening member engagement, driving organizational growth, and securing sustained resources. The role is crucial for expanding the influence and impact of Cities Alliance on cities globally and locally. By fostering strategic partnerships with cities, donors, development banks, and other stakeholders, the Director will enhance the organization's contribution to the SDGs, the Paris Agreement, and the New Urban Agenda. The ultimate aim is to empower local governments, scale community-led solutions, and achieve demonstrable reductions in urban poverty and climate vulnerability.

Responsibilities

The Director is accountable for developing a robust financial architecture, including securing predictable multi-year financing and diversifying revenue streams. This involves leading strategy and planning, including institutional review and renewal, and developing the Strategic Plan and Annual Work Plans aligned with global agendas. The Director oversees high-quality strategic information for the Management Board, facilitates communication, and acts as a spokesperson for the organization. Key responsibilities include managing partnerships, global advocacy, and communications, extending existing partnerships, and representing Cities Alliance at high-level events. Furthermore, the Director provides clear leadership to the Secretariat, manages the team, ensures adherence to UNOPS policies, oversees organizational risks, and fosters a positive, diverse, and high-performing work environment.

Work Experience

A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible professional experience is required, including senior executive leadership, strategy development, resource mobilization, and program management. Experience in an international political/diplomatic environment and a demonstrated capacity to secure significant institutional funding are essential. Experience with mobilizing concessional and non-ODA funding is also desired.

Skills

City Management, Donor Management, Organizational Leadership, Stakeholder Management, Team Leadership, Urbanism, Strategic Vision, Resource Mobilization, Financial Management, Advocacy, Partnership Development.

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