Overview
The Head of External Relations leads the Partnerships and Communications Unit, responsible for positioning WFP as a trusted partner in Tajikistan. The role provides strategic leadership for resource mobilization, donor relations, partnerships, advocacy, media engagement, and external communications.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the development and implementation of WFP Tajikistan’s partnerships, resource mobilization, external relations, communication and visibility strategies.
- Identify, cultivate and strengthen strategic relationships with bilateral and multilateral donors, international financial institutions, UN agencies, the private sector, foundations and other stakeholders.
- Provide strategic leadership on donor engagement, negotiations and resource mobilization efforts.
- Oversee the identification, analysis and tracking of donor priorities, funding trends, partnership opportunities and emerging risks.
- Lead and serve as the principal drafter and coordinator for the development, quality assurance and submission of high-quality concept notes, proposals, donor reports, briefing packages and other external communications.
- Coordinate the preparation of strategic documents, presentations, talking points, speeches, briefing notes and official correspondence for senior management's engagement with donors, and partners.
- Manage and maintain high-level stakeholder mapping and engagement plans.
- Manage media relations and external communications, including engagement with journalists, preparation of media materials, and coordination of media coverage.
- Oversee the production of communication products, including stories, press releases, social media content, audiovisual materials and visibility initiatives.
- Ensure effective stewardship of donor agreements and partnership commitments.
- Lead the External Relations Unit work plan, establishing priorities, monitoring progress, managing risks and ensuring the timely delivery of outputs and commitments.
- Represent WFP in relevant coordination mechanisms, donor forums, inter-agency working groups, technical meetings and external events.
- Provide guidance, supervision and capacity strengthening to partnerships and external relations staff.
- Oversee the consolidation and analysis of information from different units and partners.
- Ensure effective communication and coordination between internal and external stakeholders.
- Lead country office visibility, advocacy and reputation management efforts.
- Supervise communications activities and staff, providing direction, guidance and feedback.
- Lead communication support for high-level visits, donor missions, special events and emergency responses.
- Perform any other related duties as required.
Required Experience
Five years of relevant professional work experience. Working experience in developing countries is desirable.
Qualifications
Advanced University degree in Economics, International Affairs, Business Administration, Social Sciences, Development Studies or a field relevant to International Development/Humanitarian Assistance, or First University degree with additional years of related work experience.
