Education:

About the Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is the leading United Nations agency in the field of migration, dedicated to promoting safe, orderly, and humane migration worldwide. Established in 1951, IOM works closely with governments, intergovernmental organizations, and civil society to provide services and advice to ensure migration benefits all.

The Special Liaison Office (SLO) in Addis Ababa represents IOM at the African Union (AU) and UNECA, playing a strategic role in advancing migration policy, coordination, and advocacy at the continental level. The office facilitates partnerships with regional organizations, diplomatic missions, and international NGOs, positioning IOM as a thought leader and trusted partner on migration issues across Africa.

Joining IOM offers a dynamic, inclusive, and impactful work environment where staff can thrive professionally while contributing to global migration governance. Women and candidates from underrepresented countries are strongly encouraged to apply.

Job Description:
The Director of the SLO to the AU and UNECA will lead IOM’s strategic engagement with the African Union, UNECA, and other continental institutions. The role ensures that migration is mainstreamed into policy, programming, and political priorities across Africa.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading IOM’s strategic engagement with AU, UNECA, and related continental institutions to advance the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) and Agenda 2030.
• Acting as thought leader and advisor, steering continental policy discussions on migration.
• Serving as a convener and co-convener of strategic policy dialogues at the AU, UNECA, and related forums.
• Representing IOM in AU and UN-led initiatives, including the College to College (C2C) platform and Continental GCM Review.
• Strengthening partnerships with regional organizations, development banks, and private sector actors to enhance migration governance in Africa.
• Developing and implementing the Continental Strategy for Africa in alignment with the IOM Strategic Plan.
• Leading, mentoring, and managing the SLO team, including Policy Liaison Officers and Thematic Specialists.
• Monitoring continental migration trends and producing policy briefings for IOM Headquarters, Regional Offices, and Member States.
• Coordinating IOM’s participation in high-level forums, conferences, and meetings across the continent.
• Ensuring IOM visibility and strategic positioning in AU, UNECA, and broader regional networks.
• Facilitating knowledge-sharing, technical guidance, and capacity-building across countries and regions.
• Managing liaison, advocacy, and strategic communication with Member States and other stakeholders.
• Advising on continental policy frameworks, legislative initiatives, and capacity-building programs on migration.
• Overseeing financial and administrative planning of the SLO in compliance with IOM policies.
• Supporting emergency response coordination and regional inter-agency collaboration when required.
• Strengthening partnerships with Regional Consultative Processes (RCPs), Pan-African Forum on Migration (PAFoM), and other inter-state mechanisms.
• Conducting strategic analysis on AU, UNECA, and regional developments impacting migration.
• Promoting gender equality, inclusion, and diversity in all policy, operational, and staff initiatives.
• Providing timely briefings, reports, and advice to the IOM Executive Office and senior management.
• Ensuring alignment of SLO activities with IOM core principles, values, and strategic objectives.

Educational Qualification:

• Master’s degree in Political Science, Social Science, International Relations, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited university.

Work Experience:

• At least 15 years of relevant professional experience in diplomacy, international relations, strategic leadership, or liaison roles.
• Extensive experience engaging with AU, UNECA, IGAD, and diplomatic missions.
• Demonstrated experience in fundraising, public relations, and strategic advocacy at continental or international levels.
• Proven track record in leading high-performing, diverse teams and implementing strategic initiatives across multiple regions.

Required Skills and Competencies:

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and liaison skills.
• Strong understanding of AU, UNECA, IGAD, and UN processes.
• Expertise in migration-related policy, governance, and continental frameworks.
• Ability to prepare speeches, policy briefings, and analytical reports.
• Effective resource management, financial oversight, and administrative skills.
• Strategic thinking, vision, and leadership with the ability to mentor and empower others.
• Commitment to inclusion, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy.
• Proficiency in English (required), French (advantage), and any other AU official language (desirable).

Job Location:
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Employment Type and Salary:

• Fixed-term contract for 1 year with the possibility of extension.
• Salary commensurate with UN professional standards and IOM policy.

How to Apply:

• Interested candidates should submit their application through the IOM e-Recruitment system.
• Applications must include a cover letter and CV detailing relevant experience and achievements.
• Scanned certificates or attachments are not required at this stage.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Closing date: March 13, 2026, 23:59 local time Geneva, Switzerland.

Why Apply:

• Work at the forefront of continental migration policy and governance.
• Engage with top decision-makers at AU, UNECA, and UN institutions.
• Lead a dynamic, high-impact team shaping Africa’s migration agenda.
• Professional growth in diplomacy, strategic leadership, and international relations.
• Contribute to inclusive, gender-responsive, and rights-based migration solutions.
• Be part of an organization that values diversity, equity, and career development.

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