Partnerships Specialist
Organizational Context
The UNOPS Africa Regional Office oversees over 250 projects in 40 countries, focusing on fragile settings. It supports national priorities through initiatives in Climate Action, Health, Infrastructure, and Peace & Security. The East and Southern Africa Multi-Country Office (ESAMCO) implements diverse, partner-funded initiatives across 14 countries, strengthening national capacities and supporting SDG achievement.
Job Purpose
The Partnerships Specialist is responsible for developing and implementing partnership and programme development plans for East African countries. This role focuses on cultivating and maintaining strong relationships with governments, UN agencies, donors, and other stakeholders to mobilize resources, expand the office's project portfolio, and enhance UNOPS' reputation as a reliable development partner. Key objectives include aligning partnership initiatives with UNOPS' global and regional priorities, ensuring contributions to sustainable results, and supporting the achievement of strategic office objectives.
Responsibilities
Develop and execute comprehensive partnership and communications plans aligned with UNOPS strategies, including market analysis, partner identification, and risk assessment. Monitor development trends to identify collaboration opportunities within UNOPS' mandate. Research and screen potential UNOPS interventions and advise on framework partnership agreements. Contribute to the formulation and negotiation of new projects, drafting concept notes and project briefs. Establish and nurture partnerships with UN agencies, governments, NGOs, and the private sector to diversify project opportunities. Represent UNOPS in coordination meetings and UN common planning processes. Provide strategic direction to communications personnel, ensuring alignment with country priorities and partnership objectives. Implement UNOPS standards and tools for partnership management, contributing to best practices and knowledge sharing.
Work Experience
Requires at least five years of experience in International Development, with demonstrated expertise in developing and executing partnership plans, project development, and proposal writing. Experience in negotiating partnership opportunities with IFIs/MDBs and establishing partnerships with diverse organizations is essential. Prior experience in international organizations or emergency contexts is also required.
Skills
Business Planning, Partnerships, Proposal Writing, Stakeholder Engagement, Stakeholder Management