Explore the Norwegian Refugee Council’s remote vacancy for an Institutional Partnership Adviser. Learn about responsibilities, qualifications, and the application process for this strategic donor relations role.
🚀 Global Donor Relations | 🌍 Policy Influence | 🤝 Humanitarian Impact
Introduction: Strengthening Global Humanitarian Impact
The Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC) continues to lead global humanitarian efforts by supporting millions of people forced to flee their homes. As part of its commitment to sustainable resource mobilisation and strategic donor engagement, NRC is recruiting a remote Institutional Partnership Adviser (IPA)—a pivotal role shaping how the organisation collaborates with institutional donors and international development actors.
Operating within NRC’s Geneva Representative Office—while supporting teams globally—the IPA plays a central role in amplifying NRC’s influence, expanding funding opportunities, and strengthening relationships with major multilateral partners.
A Strategic Role in Global Donor Engagement
In this role, the Institutional Partnership Adviser serves as NRC’s key strategist for fostering and managing relationships with some of the world’s most influential development institutions. The adviser focuses primarily on:
- World Bank and African Development Bank engagement (50%)
- UN operational agencies such as UNHCR, UNICEF, WFP, IOM (25%)
- Global policy and advocacy on system-wide humanitarian financing gaps (25%)
Their work ensures that NRC remains a credible voice on humanitarian financing reform while securing sustainable funding streams to support operations across 40+ countries.
Core Responsibilities: Driving Partnerships, Policy, and Performance
1. Strategic Donor Relations
The Adviser becomes NRC’s primary liaison with institutional donors, helping the organisation understand donor priorities while shaping strategic engagement. Responsibilities include:
- Maintaining regular communication with donor headquarters.
- Preparing NRC teams for donor meetings.
- Advising on funding opportunities and compliance requirements.
- Tracking NRC’s historical engagement and ensuring continuity.
2. Resource Mobilisation and Funding Intelligence
To support NRC’s ability to secure funding, the Adviser:
- Scans for new funding opportunities.
- Leads donor mapping exercises and trend analysis.
- Manages prioritisation processes for competing proposals.
- Ensures prequalification and due diligence requirements are met.
3. Donor Compliance, Support, and Capacity Building
The role also provides organisation-wide support by:
- Updating donor rules, guidelines, and contract expectations.
- Training staff on donor regulations and best practices.
- Advising programme teams on proposal and reporting compliance.
4. Advocacy for Improved Humanitarian Financing
The Adviser further engages in global policy efforts by:
- Supporting discussions on multi-year, predictable funding.
- Strengthening advocacy on bridging humanitarian–development financing gaps.
- Contributing to policy briefs, talking points, and donor trend analyses.
Collaboration Across NRC’s Global Network
Working within NRC’s Partnerships and Policy Department, the Adviser collaborates with:
- Regional and Country Offices
- Global Policy and Advocacy Section
- Communications teams
- Representative Offices in Oslo, Berlin, London, and Geneva
This ensures that institutional partnerships are seamlessly integrated into NRC’s global strategic agenda.
Required Qualifications and Experience
NRC is seeking an individual with strong expertise, analytical ability, and a deep understanding of the humanitarian ecosystem. The ideal candidate should have:
Academic Requirements
- Advanced university degree (or equivalent).
- First-level degree plus 2 extra years of experience may be accepted.
Professional Background
- At least 5 years in humanitarian or development organisations or donor institutions.
- Proven experience with institutional donors and resource mobilisation.
- Strong exposure to humanitarian policy and advocacy.
- Excellent knowledge of UN humanitarian agencies.
- Familiarity with the World Bank, development banks, and funding mechanisms.
- Extensive knowledge of NRC is a distinct advantage.
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent communication and negotiation skills.
- Strong analytical and representation abilities.
- Ability to work independently and manage diverse tasks.
- Proficiency in MS Office tools.
- Fluency in English (written and verbal).
Contract Details and Work Environment
- Location: Remote (must have the right to live/work in Norway, Germany, the U.K., or another negotiated location).
- Possible office hosting: Oslo, Berlin, or London.
- Contract duration: 2 years.
- Travel: Approximately 10%.
- Salary: Grade 8 on NRC’s Resident Salary Scale.
- Work culture: Collaborative, innovative, inclusive, and mission-driven.
As an equal-opportunity employer, NRC is committed to diversity and encourages applications from candidates of all backgrounds.
Why Work with NRC?
NRC employees are part of a global mission that spans over 40 countries, making a real impact on the lives of refugees and displaced people. Benefits include:
- Opportunities to influence international humanitarian policy
- Exposure to high-level donor and inter-agency platforms
- A culture that values ideas, initiative, and professional growth
- Strong organisational support and global community
How to Apply
Applicants must:
✔ Submit their application and CV in English
✔ Use their formal name (as shown on passport)
✔ Complete all required fields on the application system
📅 Application Deadline: 8 December 2025 (01:55 a.m.)
🔗 Apply Now
For queries: [email protected]
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