Communication and Liaison Officer

The Partnerships and Liaison Group (PLG) supports UNOPS efforts to build closer ties with partners across the full spectrum of UNOPS activities. By forging strategic relationships and working with partners, both in the field and at headquarters, PLG seeks to not only ensure high partners' satisfaction with UNOPS project implementation and support, but also to integrate best practices and innovative solutions from experienced non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and the private sector into UNOPS operations. The PLG also supports or leads resource mobilization efforts across the organisation. Based in Copenhagen, PLG has active liaison offices in New York, Geneva, Brussels and Washington DC and supports partners such as the World Bank, the European Union, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations, the United Nations Mine Action Service, the United Nations Environment Programme, the Global Fund, the Millennium Challenge Corporation, national governments, and others.

The Washington DC office works with several key UNOPS partners including the World Bank, USAID, the US State Department and the Millennium Challenge Corporation.  UNOPS works with these organizations across the globe, with the Washington office supporting our field offices to engage with Washington based partners in a coordinated and focused way.

Advocacy and Communication:

• Provide support in the implementation of UNOPS Communication and Advocacy strategy;
• Develop and prepare materials (e.g. factsheets, brochures, presentations about UNOPS and Washington based partners) for meetings, briefings, trainings and other events;
• Organise and/or coordinate events in Washington or elsewhere such as World Bank Spring and Annual Meetings, Conferences and forum in close consultation with UNOPS HQ;
• Prepare and coordinate high level visits and other activities as required;
• Draft and edit content posted on the website and intranet;
• Act as the focal point for local office communication vis a vis UNOPS HQ;
• Guide and advise country offices on visibility and communicaions strategy (related to Partner’s requirements) when requested.
• Maintain institutional databases and information systems such as directories of key contacts and projects portfolio and proposals pipeline. Provide data to HQ on request.

Partnership Analysis and Support:

• Provides analysis on Partner strategies, globally, thematically and locally; prepare background information and documentation, update data relevant to the Washington based partners and compile background material.
• disseminate to field offices;
• Support the engagement with Partner institutions, and support the Head of Office in preparation of meetings with Partners;
• Provide assistance to colleagues during formulation and contracting of  project proposals for Washington based partners. Review reports upon request;
• Support the coordination with other UN agencies
• Support the preparation of field visits.

Office management support: 

• The incumbent will be requested to support administrative tasks including minor procurement and payments, travel and maintaining personnel files;
• Prepare all official correspondence.

Education

• Advanced University Degree (Master’s Degree or equivalent) in development studies, international affairs, political science or related field with a minimum of 2 years of relevant experience is required;
• A first level University degree (Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent) in combination with 2 additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree.

• A minimum of 2 years (4 years for a bachelor’s degree) of progressively responsible experience in in partner or client relationships, business development and/or market analysis.
• Demonstrated excellent research and analysis skills related to partner/business development in an international setting;
• Demonstrated ability to use basic graphics programmes
• Field experience or experience in developing countries is considered an asset;
• Experience with international organizations or public institutions is considered an asset.

• Fluency in English and French are required.
• Knowledge of another official UN language is an advantage.

• Creativity and innovation;
• Planning and organizing;
• Excellent communication skills, strong analytical skills;
• Ability to establish priorities and to plan, coordinate and monitor own work plan, perform a broad range of activities;
• Commitment to the ideals of the UN Charter, incl. Integrity and Accountability, respect for diversity;
• Commitment to continuous learning;
• Consistent positive and constructive approach to work;
• Good knowledgeable of communication technology.

• Please note that the closing date is midnight Copenhagen time
• Applications received after the closing date will not be considered.
• Only those candidates that are short-listed for interviews will be notified.
• Qualified female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
• Work life harmonization - UNOPS values its people and recognizes the importance of balancing professional and personal demands. We have a progressive policy on work-life harmonization and offer several flexible working options. This policy applies to UNOPS personnel on all contract types
• For staff positions only, UNOPS reserves the right to appoint a candidate at a lower level than the advertised level of the post
• The incumbent is responsible to abide by security policies, administrative instructions, plans and procedures of the UN Security Management System and that of UNOPS.  

It is the policy of UNOPS to conduct background checks on all potential recruits/interns.
Recruitment/internship in UNOPS is contingent on the results of such checks.

UNOPS supports the successful implementation of its partners’ peacebuilding, humanitarian and development projects around the world. Our mission is to serve people in need by expanding the ability of the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, infrastructure and procurement in a sustainable and efficient manner.

Working in some of the world’s most challenging environments, our vision is to advance sustainable implementation practices, always satisfying or surpassing our partners’ expectations.

With over 7,000 personnel spread across 80 countries, UNOPS offers its partners the logistical, technical and management knowledge they need, wherever they need it.

A flexible structure and global reach means that we can quickly respond to our partners' needs, while offering the benefits of economies of scale.