Team Lead, External Relations, Partnerships and Governing Bodies
Organizational Context
The External Relations, Partnerships and Governing Bodies (EPG) Unit operates within the WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO), under the Office of the Regional Director. Its mandate is to mobilize political will and resources by fostering strategic alliances and external relations. The unit positions regional health priorities on the international agenda, coordinates the Regional Committee, and enhances engagement with WHO Governing Bodies. It also builds capacity for partnerships and resource mobilization across AFRO entities.
Job Purpose
The purpose of this role is to provide strategic and technical leadership in external relations, partnerships, and engagement with governing bodies for the WHO Regional Office for Africa (AFRO). The incumbent will lead the development and implementation of the Regional Partnership and Resource Mobilization Strategy, positioning regional health priorities and securing resources. This involves fostering collaborations with UN agencies, donors, governments, and other stakeholders to enhance AFRO's regional and national health initiatives. The role also includes overseeing engagement with governing bodies and ensuring alignment with global health agendas, contributing significantly to the achievement of regional health goals and strengthening AFRO's leadership in health.
Responsibilities
Lead and coordinate the development, implementation, monitoring, and reporting of the EPG unit's work plan, including budget and resource management. Advocate for, support, and build capacity in partnerships and resource mobilization. Facilitate collaboration with the African Union, Economic Commission for Africa, and Regional Economic Communities. Promote working relationships with UN agencies, donors, governmental, inter-governmental organizations, and foundations. Oversee AFRO's engagement with the Regional Committee and WHO Governing Bodies, ensuring alignment with regional health goals. Lead the development and implementation of the Regional Partnership and Resource Mobilization Strategy. Manage the Framework of Engagement with Non-State Actors (FENSA) in the African Region. Oversee the management, review, and clearance of funding and partnership agreements. Provide leadership and manage unit staff, ensuring performance, development, and adherence to organizational policies.
Work Experience
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in external relations, partnerships, and resource mobilization within intergovernmental processes at national and international levels is required. Proven experience managing complex partnership portfolios with diverse stakeholders, including bilateral/multilateral donors, the private sector, foundations, and non-state actors, is essential. Experience in planning and organizing international meetings is also required. Experience in humanitarian settings is considered an asset.
Skills
Proven managerial and leadership skills. Excellent analytical, organizational, and group facilitation skills. Strong writing skills in English, capable of producing content for various styles and under pressure. Demonstrated networking and excellent interpersonal skills. Ability to multitask and prioritize competing demands. Proven ability to plan, execute, collaborate, and work independently. Diplomatic skills for negotiation and engaging strategic partnerships. Understanding of the UN system's operational work at the country level. Proficiency in English or French, with good working knowledge of the other. Working knowledge of standard office software packages, including Salesforce.