Partnerships Specialist (Multi Country Lead - Zimbabwe)
Organizational Context
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office oversees over 250 projects in 40 countries, focusing on fragile settings. The East and Southern Africa Multi-Country Office (ESAMCO), based in Nairobi, supports sustainable development across 14 countries. UNOPS Zimbabwe, established in 2019 and based in Harare, partners with the government and development community to support national growth agendas through project management, infrastructure, and procurement services.
Job Purpose
The Partnerships Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing partnership and programme development plans to expand UNOPS' portfolio and mobilize resources. This role focuses on building and maintaining strong relationships with governments, UN agencies, donors, and other stakeholders to enhance UNOPS' positioning as a reliable development partner. The specialist ensures that partnership initiatives align with global and regional priorities, contribute to sustainable results, and support the achievement of strategic objectives within Zimbabwe and other Southern African countries.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute a comprehensive partnership development plan, analyzing the development landscape, identifying key partners, and exploring growth opportunities. Monitor humanitarian and development trends to identify collaboration areas within UNOPS' mandate. Contribute to the formulation and negotiation of new projects and programs, drafting concept notes and project briefs. Establish and nurture partnerships with diverse organizations including UN agencies, governments, and the private sector to diversify project opportunities. Represent the office in coordination meetings, participate in UN common planning processes, and build a network of key partners. Implement UNOPS standards and tools for effective partnership management, contributing to best practices and knowledge sharing.
Work Experience
Requires at least five years of experience in international development, including demonstrated experience in developing and executing partnership plans, project development, proposal writing, and acquiring projects. Experience establishing partnerships with UN agencies, international development organizations, governments, foundations, NGOs, or the private sector is essential. Project and program management experience is considered an asset.
Skills
Partnerships, Planning, Proposal Writing, Stakeholder Engagement