Head of External Relations

Organizational Context

The World Food Programme (WFP) is the world's largest humanitarian organization, dedicated to saving lives and building peace through food assistance. In Tajikistan, WFP supports national capacities for food security and nutrition, shifting from direct implementation to strengthening national systems. The Country Strategic Plan (CSP) 2023–2026 aligns with the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework, focusing on resilience, nutrition, and school meals.

Job Purpose

The Head of External Relations will lead WFP Tajikistan's Partnerships and Communications Unit, playing a crucial role in positioning WFP as a key partner for national development and humanitarian efforts. This position is responsible for strategic leadership in resource mobilization, donor relations, partnerships, advocacy, media engagement, and external communications, ensuring alignment with WFP's country strategic objectives and corporate priorities. The incumbent will cultivate and strengthen relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders, including donors, UN agencies, international financial institutions, and the private sector, to secure funding and enhance the visibility of WFP's impact. The role demands the development and implementation of comprehensive partnership, communication, and advocacy plans, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and strengthening WFP's public profile. By providing strategic advice to senior management and leading effective engagement, the Head of External Relations will significantly contribute to increased resource mobilization, stronger partnerships, and enhanced recognition of WFP's vital work in Tajikistan.

Responsibilities

The Head of External Relations at the World Food Programme (WFP) in Tajikistan is responsible for strategically positioning WFP as a key partner in national development and humanitarian efforts. This role involves leading the Partnerships and Communications Unit, with a primary focus on resource mobilization, cultivating donor relations, fostering partnerships, and managing advocacy and external communications. The incumbent will engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including bilateral and multilateral donors, international financial institutions, UN agencies, and the private sector, to secure funding and enhance the visibility of WFP's impactful work. Key accountabilities include developing and implementing comprehensive strategies for partnerships and communications, leading donor engagement and negotiations, and overseeing the creation of high-quality proposals and reports. The position also entails managing media relations, producing communication materials, ensuring compliance with donor agreements, and representing WFP in various forums. Furthermore, the Head of External Relations will provide leadership and guidance to the team, contributing to increased resource mobilization, stronger partnerships, and greater recognition of WFP's role in food security and resilience in Tajikistan.

Work Experience

Requires five years of relevant professional work experience. Experience working in developing countries is considered desirable.

Skills

Partnership building, Resource mobilization, Donor relations, Advocacy, Media engagement, External communications, Strategic planning, Project management, Team leadership, Cross-cultural communication, Report writing, Proposal development, Stakeholder engagement, Public relations, Risk management

Explore related opportunities