External Engagement And Strategic Communications Advisor

Job Highlight

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape and advance high-level political and diplomatic engagement to accelerate progress toward malaria elimination globally. Based in Addis Ababa, the position operates at the center of continental decision-making while engaging with global partners and international health platforms.

The Advisor will ensure malaria remains a priority within African Union and national policy agendas, while also advancing global priorities such as universal health coverage, climate resilience, and pandemic preparedness.

About the Region

The UNOPS Global Portfolios Office brings together diverse expertise to help partners deliver impact worldwide. With hubs in New York, Geneva, and Vienna, it leads multi-regional initiatives that advance sustainable development, climate action, and peacebuilding across more than 130 countries.

About the Country/Multi-Country Office

UNOPS Geneva provides solutions in secretariat hosting, operational support, and fund management. It manages global programmes and supports multiple partnerships in health, nutrition, energy, and development sectors.

About the Project Office

RBM Partnership to End Malaria has played a central role in reducing malaria globally, helping cut deaths by more than half since 2000. The partnership includes over 500 global partners working toward malaria elimination.

The organization operates under the Unity30 2026–2030 strategic framework and is hosted by UNOPS, with headquarters in Geneva and hubs across Africa, including Addis Ababa.

About the Group

UNOPS Global Portfolios deliver impact worldwide through expertise in sustainable development, peacebuilding, and climate action, working closely with governments, UN agencies, and international partners.

Job Specific Context

The RBM Partnership continues to drive global malaria elimination through partnerships, innovation, and coordinated action across governments, organizations, and communities.

Role Purpose

The External Engagement and Communications Advisor will lead strategic engagement, diplomatic outreach, and external relations globally, with a strong focus on Africa.

The role involves positioning malaria elimination as a political priority, building relationships with key stakeholders, supporting the CEO, and strengthening visibility, advocacy, and resource mobilization.

Functions / Key Results Expected

• Provide strategic engagement and policy alignment with governments, AU institutions, and global partners.
• Coordinate external relations and represent the organization in high-level forums.
• Support resource mobilization through donor engagement and innovative financing strategies.
• Strengthen strategic positioning across Africa and globally.
• Lead strategic communications and advocacy efforts aligned with organizational goals.

Key Results Expected

• Malaria elimination prioritized within AU institutions and global health platforms.
• Stronger political ownership and commitments from governments and partners.
• Enhanced visibility and influence of the organization globally.
• Increased political and financial commitments for malaria elimination.

Skills

• Diplomacy
• Donor Management
• Governmental Affairs
• Internal and External Communications
• Public Affairs and Public Relations
• Public Health
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Strategic Communications

Education Requirements

• Advanced degree in Public Health, International Relations, Communications, Development Studies, Political Science, or related field.
• Bachelor’s degree with two additional years of relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of a master’s degree.

Experience Requirements

• Minimum 7 years of experience in external engagement, communications, policy advocacy, or international development.
• At least 5 years engaging senior government officials or international leadership.
• Experience advising senior leaders and supporting high-level global or regional forums.
• Experience in advocacy, communications, and influencing policy agendas.
• Experience in donor engagement and resource mobilization.
• Experience in global health, malaria, or related sectors.

Desired Experience

• Experience in global health partnerships or malaria programs.
• Experience within UN agencies or international NGOs.
• Understanding of African Union systems and regional economic communities.

Skills Required:

• Health / Medical
• Political / Science / Ir