Background

The European Union (EU) constitutes a key global player in international development policy, and is by far the largest donor in the sphere of international development aid, accounting for 56% of global ODA. The EU places high priority upon intensifying and enhancing its relations with the UN, including UNIFEM, in the field of development as does the European Commission (EC), which is the executive arm of the EU. Recognizing the importance of the EU and its Member States in development assistance, the Brussels Office (BO) was set-up, in November 2007. UNIFEM BO’s work is shaped to contribute to UNIFEM Strategic Plan 2008-2011 development results framework, in particular outcomes 1, 4, 5 and as well as outcomes 1, 2, and 4 of the Management Results Framework. The strategic focus is on resource mobilization and partnership development in the area of policy advice and political advocacy with EU institutions on issues pertaining to UNIFEM mandate to advance gender equality and women’s empowerment and rights. The office is additionally support the Outreach and Business Development Section in resource mobilization from selected European Members, with focus on Benelux countries.
 
The Programme and Resource Mobilization Specialist, reporting to the Director of the Brussels Office, implements UNIFEM Brussels Office resource mobilization strategy focused on sustaining and expanding UNIFEM partnership with the European Commission, engaging in dialogue with different Directorate Generals, supporting negotiation of agreements, as well as training UNIFEM staff on EC regulations related to programme implementation, monitoring and evaluation. S/he works closely with other members of UNIFEM BO team, and in close cooperation with OBDT, as well as Programme Officers in SROs, and the Finance/Operations section.
 
The work requires knowledge of strategic results-oriented programming, monitoring and evaluation, as well as experience in resource mobilization for international development programmes, involving dialogue with donors and strategic partners.

Duties and Responsibilities

Resource mobilization and donor relations
  • Responsible for analyzing and assessing EC financial policies, funding trends, and budgetary planning cycles related to EC financial instruments and thematic programmes
  • Designs and develops systems for improved coordination and information sharing with UNIFEM staff on fundraising entry points and contacts
  • Coordinates packaging of high quality project proposals
  • Prepares and advises on finalizing of agreements with the EC
Policy & advocacy
 
  • Represents UNIFEM in the UNBT FAFA Working Group and engages in dialogue with the EC regarding FAFA (Financial and Administrative Framework Agreement)
  • Tracks debates in EU Parliamentary Committees (Development, Budget) regarding cooperation with UN
Programme formulation and oversight
 
  • Advises and guides UNIFEM programme managers with respect to EC requirements on visibility, verification missions, evaluations, etc.
  • Vets UNIFEM SRO concept notes, programme fiches, reports, to ensure quality control and compliance with EC submission guidelines
  • Advises UNIFEM staff on opportunities to engage in relevant EC processes and planning cycles (e.g. mid-term reviews of Country Strategy Papers)
Office capacity and performance
 
  • Develops and tailors training for UNIFEM staff on EU rules and procedures
  • Lead for training for UNIFEM on EC funding guidelines and procedures

Competencies

Managerial: Experience in results-based and rights-based programming (Results-based Management and Human Rights-based Approach to Programming). Experience in evaluation of programme and projects.

Technical: Substantive knowledge of EC and UNIFEM strategies/approaches as well as rules and regulations with respect to programming and operations

Client Orientation - Ability to identify clients' needs and appropriate solutions; ability to establish and maintain productive partnerships with donors and other partner agencies; Fosters linkages with key internal clients and other UN agencies and strategic partnerships with key external stakeholders.

Communication - Excellent personal and professional communication and presentation skills, with strong representational abilities. Builds strong relationships with both internal and external actors - cultivates productive relationships with donors, and other partners. Displays cultural sensitivity and adaptability - communicates effectively with and relates to people of different cultures, demonstrating an ability to see issues from other perspectives

Teamwork - Strong interpersonal skills demonstrated by the ability to lead and gain the assistance and cooperation of others in a team endeavor; ability to build trust through operating with transparency and creating an open, positive and enabling environment; ability to work in a multi-cultural, multi-ethnic environment with sensitivity and respect for diversity.

Required Skills and Experience

Education:

  • Advanced University degree in a development-related area of study.

Experience:

  • A minimum of 5 years progressively responsible experience in programme development and management; gender expertise
  • Strong familiarity with the UN system as well as the policies and rules guiding European Commission support to international programmes
  • Proven record in programme management and results based programming
  • Proven advocacy, analytical and writing skills

Language Requirements:

  • Fluency in written and spoken English and French is required, knowledge of other European languages an asset