External Relations Officer, P3

WHO - World Health Organization

Accra, Ghana

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

The external relations unit of the Country Office will strengthen the office in resource mobilization, advocacy and partnerships with all relevant partners, including non-state actors. The External Relation officer will serve as the principal advisor to the WHO Representative (WR) and country office, in resource mobilization, advocacy and partnership activities. As a key member of the Country Office Senior Management Team (SMO), the External Relations Officer will manage the coordination, expansion, development and oversight of the country offices' funding and associated partnerships.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Develop and implement an innovative resource mobilization action plan for the Country Office to ensure sustainable financing for core and emergency activities. Researches the interests and application requirements of the main donors and other sources of funding to the country. Drafts proposals, donor briefings, reports and updates to ensure accurate and timely reporting; Maintain partner relations through innovative approaches (e.g., quarterly partner briefing); while concisely, clearly and convincingly communicating WHO yearly/biennial strategic direction; proactively contributes in negotiations for rapid donor agreements; Oversees the overall activities related to mobilization of resources, grants management, funding needs and gaps and the awards process. Maintain project calendars and milestones; analyses information on project activities and monitors progress towards targets using various project management databases; Liaises with Regional Offices to secure the required clearance, including legal and financial clearances for proposals and donor agreements before signature. Manages multiple projects throughout the project life cycle; monitor implementation rates and reporting deadlines and ensure activities and expenditures are aligned with the terms and conditions set out in individual donor agreements; work closely with procurement, logistics, HR and technical staff to monitor the overall implementation of projects in the country office; Liaises with coordination agencies in the country to ensure that the Country Office participates in system-wide resource mobilization activities and that it effectively engages with staff of Country-Based Pooled Funds to secure funding from those sources; In coordination with the Communication Officer, effectively utilizes the communication products to inform donors about both Health Sector and WHO's strategies and work to encourage them to fund the overall health sector response to affected populations and to WHO's strategic plans and proposals; Performs any other relevant duties, as required by the supervisor

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: University degree in Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Sciences, Business Administration, Communications, Marketing, Management or Economics from an accredited/recognized institute.
Desirable: Specific studies on resource mobilization, partnership building, studies on development and/or humanitarian work. Training in donor intelligence, proposal writing, and general project management.

Experience

Essential: At least five years' related experience, at the national and international level, in resource mobilization and external relations. Documented achievements in resource mobilization activities.
Desirable: Experience in WHO, other UN agencies or in similar field. Experience working in emergency context.

Skills

Strong interpersonal, representational and organizational skills, with proven ability to facilitate and strengthen the involvement and collaboration of a broad range of internal and external partners.
Demonstrated success in resource mobilization complemented by the ability to conceptualize ideas and promote consensus.
Excellent analytical and writing skills. Integrity, tack and discretion. Ability to work and achieve goals under pressure.