Mission and objectivesGhana is a peaceful, stable, multi-party democracy and a lower-middle-income country. The nation experienced steady socioeconomic development progress until 2020. Children under 18 comprise a significant portion of the population. Urbanization is a continuing trend. Disparities exist between regions, particularly regarding poverty. Many children in Ghana experience multidimensional and monetary poverty. In addition to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, several ongoing challenges, including health concerns, increased exposure to climate change, and regional security risks, pose threats to child well-being and overall development. The national medium-term development policy framework prioritizes areas such as economic growth, urbanization and infrastructure, digitalization, science, technology, innovation, pandemic preparedness, public health, climate change, emergency preparedness, and youth empowerment. In Ghana, UNICEF cooperates with the Government and other partners to defend the rights of children and help them fulfil their potential. With offices in Accra and Tamale, the UNICEF team seeks to achieve results in strategic programme areas. The overall goal is for every child to survive and thrive, to live in a safe and clean environment, to learn, to be protected from violence and exploitation, and to have an equitable chance in life. The current Country Programme of cooperation is aligned with the Government priorities, the UN Sustainable Development Partnership (UNSDP), and Key Results for Children (KRCs) in the West and Central African Region (immunization, nutrition, learning outcomes, ending child marriage, and ending open defecation). UNICEF main strategies include Social protection and public financing for children, Advocacy and partnership, Social and Behavior Change and Innovation, Evidence and Knowledge management.
ContextUNICEF has been the leading child-rights organization, and a respected partner, for saving and improving childrenโs lives. In Ghana, UNICEF cooperates with the Government and other partners to advocate for the protection of children's rights, to ensure equitable access to quality social services, and to expand childrenโs opportunities to reach their full potential. With offices in Accra and Tamale, the UNICEF team seeks to achieve results in strategic programme areas. The overall goal is for every child to survive and thrive, to live in a safe and clean environment, to learn, to be protected from violence and exploitation, and to have an equitable chance in life. The current Country Programme of cooperation is aligned with the Government priorities, the UN Sustainable Development Framework (UNSDF) and Key Results for Children (KRCs) in the West and Central African Region (immunization, nutrition, learning outcomes, ending violence and open defecation). UNICEF main strategies include evidence-based advocacy, system strengthening, integrated programming across sectors, emergency preparedness and response, and innovation. UNICEF Ghana works in close collaboration with a diverse range of partners, including government institutions, civil society organizations, private sector actors, and international development agencies, to advance child rights and deliver impactful results for children. Strategic public and private sector partnerships are essential to mobilize resources, foster innovation, and scale up effective interventions. The Partnerships Team plays a key role in strengthening these collaborations, ensuring alignment with UNICEFโs strategic priorities, and leveraging partner contributions to achieve sustainable outcomes for children across Ghana
Task DescriptionUnder the general guidance and supervision of the Partnerships Manager (P4), the Donor Relations Specialist will support the overall efforts of the unit to build partnerships and mobilize an appropriate and sustainable resource base for programmes. The UNV Specialist will play a key role in supporting UNICEF Ghanaโs Partnerships team, with a particular focus on expanding engagement and fundraising. The position will contribute to identifying new business opportunities, strengthening donor retention and visibility, and coordinating strategic initiatives that align with UNICEFโs priorities. By fostering impactful partnerships and supporting the implementation of the Resource Mobilization Strategy, the Specialist will help drive sustainable funding and enhance UNICEFโs ability to deliver results for children in Ghana. 1. New Business Development โข Conduct research and identify relevant partnership opportunities; support administrative and operational processes for partnership development, including submissions via UNISON, obtaining due diligence clearances and coordinating with regional teams. โข Maintain and regularly update donor profiles, market intelligence, and funding trends in collaboration with the Partnerships team. โข In collaboration with programme teams, coordinate and support the development, review, and submission of donor proposals and contribution agreements, ensuring alignment with agreed quality standards and donor priorities. โข Prepare analytical briefs, reports, and communication materials to support resource mobilization and partners engagement. โข Participate in and facilitate meetings, workshops, and networking events to advance partnership strategies and outreach. โข Monitor progress against the Resource Mobilization Strategy and Donor Action Plan, 2. Donor Relations, Coordination, and Visibility โข Collaborate with the Communications team and other relevant UNICEF staff to develop integrated campaign materials and visibility assets that support partnerships and enhance public awareness of UNICEFโs work in Ghana and internationally. โข Support responses to donor queries related to ongoing grants, coordinating with programme sections and supporting the coordination of field visits as needed. โข Provide coordination support for donor engagement activities, including fundraising campaigns, partnership events, and agreement-related obligations. 3. General Coordination and Support โข Represent the Partnerships team in internal meetings and working groups, ensuring alignment with the Resource Mobilization Strategy and effective communication across teams. โข Maintain effective internal relationships, and liaise effectively with programme teams, regional office, and HQ offices. โข Provide additional support as requested by the supervisor, contributing to the overall effectiveness of the Resource Mobilization and Partnerships team.
Competencies and valuesโข Accountability โข Adaptability and flexibility โข Creativity โข Judgement and decision-making โข Planning and organising โข Professionalism โข Self-management
Living conditions and remarksGhana offers a vibrant and rewarding work environment, with rich cultural experiences and welcoming communities. While urban areas provide many modern amenities, some assignments may involve travel to remote locations with limited infrastructure. Adaptability, resilience, and cultural sensitivity are key to thriving in this dynamic setting. UNICEF Ghana fosters a collaborative and inclusive work culture, and staff are supported through strong internal networks and regional guidance. For those ready to embrace both the challenges and rewards of working in a multifaceted environment, this assignment promises professional growth and the chance to make a lasting difference in the lives of children and families. You can check full entitlements at the duty station at https://app.unv.org/calculator. The complete UN Volunteer Conditions of Service is available at https://explore.unv.org/cos.โ