The International Organization for Migration (IOM), a Related Organization of the United Nations, was established in 1951 to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. As the leading UN agency in the field of migration, IOM works closely with governments, intergovernmental bodies, and non-governmental partners to deliver effective solutions that enhance human mobility, strengthen cooperation, and address migration challenges worldwide.
With a mission grounded in inclusivity, professionalism, and integrity, IOM remains dedicated to fostering environments where employees thrive while contributing to global development goals. The organization’s workplace culture reflects diversity, collaboration, and excellence, offering an opportunity for talented professionals to make a meaningful impact in shaping international migration policy and practice.
IOM is inviting applications for the position of Regional Project Development Officer (P), based in Nairobi, Kenya. This is a professional-level role (Grade P-4) on a fixed-term contract of one year, renewable subject to performance and availability of funding. The role is a strategic and technical position requiring advanced project development expertise, regional engagement, and collaboration across multiple thematic areas of migration management.
Applications are especially encouraged from qualified female candidates and nationals from non-represented IOM member states, in line with IOM’s strong commitment to diversity and inclusion.
For more details, please refer to the attached PDF.
Position Details
- Position Title: Regional Project Development Officer (P)
- Duty Station: Nairobi, Kenya
- Grade: P-4
- Contract Type: Fixed-term (1 year, renewable)
- Recruiting Type: Professional
- Vacancy Type: Vacancy Notice
- Reference Number: 16025
- Application Closing Date: 17 September 2025
- Schedule: Full time
Job Context
Reporting directly to the Deputy Regional Director (DRD) for Operations, under the overall supervision of the Regional Director (RD), and in alignment with the Office of Strategy and Organisational Performance, the Regional Project Development Officer (RPDO) will lead and support project development functions across the region.
The RPDO will manage the Regional Project Development Unit (RPDU) and act as the focal point for enhancing institutional capacity in project development, knowledge management, and results-based management. This position also provides direct technical oversight, ensures quality control, and strengthens donor engagement, resource mobilization, and strategic partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
The Regional Project Development Officer’s responsibilities span across technical support, quality assurance, knowledge management, resource mobilization, and leadership of the RPDU.
1. Technical Support and Capacity Development
- Provide substantive input for the drafting of project proposals, particularly for small country offices (COs) and multi-country or regional initiatives.
- Offer technical guidance to ensure project development and funding requests are consistent with IOM strategies and policies.
- Ensure donor reports are results-based, data-driven, and aligned with organizational objectives.
- Strengthen compliance with the IOM Project Cycle Management (PCM) process, including results-based reporting, by training and supporting staff at regional and country levels.
2. Knowledge Management
- Lead the engagement of Regional Office (RO) and Country Offices in knowledge management platforms and tools, ensuring effective use of PRIMA (IOM’s project management system).
- Promote coordination with IOM Headquarters, ROs, and COs to improve knowledge sharing on multi-country projects, reporting practices, and project development opportunities.
3. Quality Control and Oversight
- Oversee timely endorsement of project proposals and donor reports in collaboration with Regional Thematic Specialists (RTSs).
- Facilitate submission and endorsement of IOM Development Fund (IDF) proposals in the region.
- Ensure the integration of the IOM Strategic Results Framework (SRF) in project design and development across COs.
4. Partnerships and Resource Mobilization
- Coordinate closely with Regional Partnerships and Liaison Officers (RPLOs) and RTSs to establish and strengthen relationships with donors.
- Provide targeted advice on donor engagement, proposal submission processes, and funding opportunities, especially for small COs.
- Support country offices in mapping and engaging with potential donors, private sector partners, and stakeholders to diversify funding sources.
5. Planning and Coordination
- Facilitate regional participation in IOM global initiatives, including the Annual Global Appeal.
- Participate in global working groups such as the Donor Accountability Working Group and contribute to updates of the IOM Project Handbook.
- Assist with the administration of flexible funding in coordination with Headquarters and regional monitoring officers.
6. Cross-Cutting Priorities
- Ensure mainstreaming of IOM’s strategic priorities, including gender, protection, and sustainability, across all RPDU activities.
- Strengthen institutional learning and promote innovative approaches in project design and implementation.
7. RPDU Management
- Lead and manage the Regional Project Development Unit, ensuring timely delivery of outputs.
- Supervise team members, allocate responsibilities, and oversee the operational and strategic functioning of the unit.
- Undertake any additional duties as may be assigned by the DRD or RD.
Required Skills and Experience
- Education:
- Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Social Science, or related fields with 7 years of professional experience, OR
- University degree with 9 years of professional experience.
- Experience:
- Proven expertise in project development, donor engagement, and thematic capacity building.
- At least 5 years of experience working in non-OECD countries on project design and resource mobilization.
- Strong background in partnership building with government institutions, diplomatic missions, civil society, and the private sector.
- Hands-on experience in managing international development projects within UN agencies or intergovernmental organizations.
- Demonstrated success in capacity building and training on project management and development.
- Skills:
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities in complex and dynamic contexts.
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills with a proven ability to engage donors.
- Demonstrated leadership in managing diverse teams and fostering knowledge management.
- Familiarity with IOM project management systems, policies, and frameworks.
- Languages:
- Fluency in English is required.
- Working knowledge of French is an advantage.
Competencies
All IOM staff are expected to embody and demonstrate the organization’s values and core competencies:
- Values: Inclusion and respect for diversity, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy.
- Core Competencies: Teamwork, delivering results, accountability, communication, and knowledge sharing.
- Managerial Competencies: Leadership, empowering others, building trust, strategic vision, and humility.
Notes
- International professional staff are required to be mobile.
- This process may be used to fill similar positions globally within 24 months.
- Appointment is subject to medical clearance, security checks, and visa requirements.
- IOM has a strict zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation, abuse, harassment, and discrimination.
- IOM does not charge any fees at any stage of recruitment.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their applications through the IOM e-Recruitment system. Please ensure that your application is duly completed and submitted before 17 September 2025 (23:59 Geneva time).
For further details and other vacancies, please refer to the attached PDF or visit the IOM Careers portal.
