The International Organization for Migration (IOM), established in 1951, is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading UN agency in the field of migration. IOM works closely with governments, intergovernmental bodies, and non-governmental organizations to promote humane and orderly migration. Its mandate includes providing services and advice to both migrants and member states.
The organization is committed to a workplace where professionals can thrive while contributing to meaningful global work in migration management. For this particular role, applications are open to both first- and second-tier candidates. Priority consideration will be given to qualified internal candidates, female applicants, and nationals from non-represented member states.
This vacancy concerns the position of Regional Project Development Officer (P), based in Nairobi, Kenya. The role is placed under the direct supervision of the Deputy Regional Director for Operations, the overall supervision of the Regional Director, and the guidance of the Office of Strategy and Organisational Performance. The post offers an opportunity to provide technical oversight and support to country offices across the region, ensuring consistency, quality, and evidence-based programming aligned with IOM’s institutional policy and practices.
Context of the Role
The Regional Project Development Officer plays a central role in enhancing project quality and programmatic excellence. The incumbent leads the Regional Project Development Unit (RPDU), supports small country offices, and ensures adherence to IOM’s institutional standards in project cycle management. The role also involves fostering donor relations, mobilizing resources, and contributing to global initiatives in close coordination with IOM Headquarters, Regional Thematic Units, and other partners.
Responsibilities
The responsibilities of the Regional Project Development Officer are diverse, spanning technical support, quality control, oversight, capacity development, knowledge management, partnerships, and coordination.
Technical Support and Capacity Development
- Provide substantive inputs to the drafting of project proposals in collaboration with Regional Thematic Units. This includes projects with regional, multi-country, or multi-thematic dimensions, particularly for small country offices or countries where IOM does not yet have a presence.
- Offer technical support to country offices in project development and funding requests. Ensure that project design, donor submissions, and inter-agency joint initiatives are in line with IOM strategies, policies, and practices, while also being evidence-based in collaboration with the Regional Data Hub.
- Ensure donor reporting is results-based, data-driven, and aligned with objectives of the IOM Strategic Plan. Coordinate closely with Regional Thematic Units and the Regional Planning, Monitoring, and Evaluation Officer to uphold reporting standards.
- Promote and strengthen compliance with IOM’s Project Cycle Management process in the region. Provide technical support and capacity development to regional and country offices, particularly smaller ones, to enhance adherence to institutional guidelines, results-based reporting, and use of systems such as PRIMA.
Knowledge Management
- Lead regional engagement in knowledge management initiatives by encouraging the effective use of platforms, tools, and practices. Facilitate the use of PRIMA and ensure alignment with IOM’s global knowledge management priorities.
- Promote collaboration and information exchange among Headquarters, Regional Offices, and Country Offices. This includes fostering cross-regional learning, coordination of key multi-country projects, and alignment of knowledge-sharing practices.
Quality Control and Oversight
- Oversee the endorsement of project proposals and approval of donor reports. Ensure timely and efficient processes in coordination with Regional Thematic Specialists or designated endorsers.
- Facilitate the submission of proposals for the IOM Development Fund, ensuring regional compliance with institutional requirements and deadlines.
- Integrate the IOM Strategic Results Framework in project development across the region, working closely with Regional Planning and Monitoring officers and Thematic Specialists.
Partnerships and Resource Mobilization
- Lead coordination efforts with Regional Policy and Liaison Officers and Thematic Units to build and strengthen partnerships with regional donors and linkages with donor capitals.
- Provide guidance on resource mobilization, including donor mapping, proposal calls, and application procedures. Support smaller country offices in their engagement with donors and their efforts to expand partnerships.
- Support country offices in broadening funding sources, including donor and private sector engagement. Facilitate outreach, donor briefings, and mapping exercises to encourage resource diversification and strategic partnerships.
Planning and Coordination
- Coordinate regional participation in global IOM initiatives such as the Annual Global Appeal. Actively contribute to global working groups, including the Donor Accountability Working Group and IOM Project Handbook processes.
- Provide support in flexible funding administration in coordination with Headquarters and the Regional Planning and Monitoring team.
Cross-Cutting Priorities
- Ensure cross-cutting priorities such as inclusion, gender equality, and sustainability are integrated into all areas of the RPDU’s work, consistent with IOM’s Strategic Plan and regional priorities.
Regional Project Development Unit (RPDU) Management
- Oversee the management of the RPDU, ensuring delivery of all its responsibilities. Supervise the Unit’s staff, set priorities, and ensure effective coordination of outputs.
- Perform additional tasks and responsibilities as may be assigned in line with IOM’s organizational needs.
Competencies
The role requires adherence to IOM’s core values and competencies.
Values
- Inclusion and respect for diversity: Promotes cultural and individual differences while fostering an inclusive environment.
- Integrity and transparency: Demonstrates ethical conduct and adherence to organizational principles.
- Professionalism: Works in a composed and committed manner, exercising sound judgment.
- Courage: Takes a principled stance on key issues.
- Empathy: Respects others and demonstrates compassion in interactions.
Core Competencies
- Teamwork: Promotes collaboration across teams and units to achieve organizational goals.
- Delivering results: Produces high-quality outputs in a timely and service-oriented manner.
- Managing and sharing knowledge: Actively seeks to learn, innovate, and share expertise.
- Accountability: Takes responsibility for assigned work and organizational priorities.
- Communication: Facilitates clear and open communication and simplifies complex issues for diverse audiences.
Managerial Competencies
- Leadership: Provides clear direction and motivates teams to achieve shared goals.
- Empowering others: Creates conditions for team members to maximize their potential.
- Building trust: Encourages transparency and honesty across relationships.
- Strategic thinking and vision: Aligns organizational priorities with long-term objectives.
- Humility: Leads with openness and self-awareness.
Additional Information
- This is a fixed-term appointment subject to availability of funding.
- The post is classified at the P-4 level within the United Nations system.
- Internationally recruited professional staff must be mobile.
- Appointment will depend on medical clearance, visa or residency permits, and other security requirements.
- IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy against sexual exploitation, harassment, abuse of authority, and any form of discrimination.
- IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants are cautioned against fraudulent solicitations requesting payment.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Application Process
Applications must be submitted through IOM’s e-recruitment system. The system allows candidates to apply for this vacancy, track progress, and receive updates. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Closing Date
Applications must be received no later than 17 September 2025 at 23:59 local time, Geneva, Switzerland.
