Africa Policy and Advocacy Manager at Habitat for Humanity International

About The Role

Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) is currently seeking an experienced advocacy professional for the role of Africa Policy and Advocacy Manager (PAM). The Africa Policy and Advocacy Manager is the main point of contact for Habitat’s National Organizations (NOs) in Africa. This individual also ensures quality control and compliance with HFHI advocacy requirements for NOs. This manager is a key contributor to the continental networking, positioning and partnership building for Habitat in Africa by attending regional/continental events, conferences, and coalitions. The PAM also contributes to regional strategy development and implementation as a key advisor.

This individual is the liaison and will be a member of the HFHI Global Advocacy Team, and channels information and knowledge between HQ, the Area Offices (AO) and NOs. This role also represents Habitat at continental and global events.

JOB LOCATION & TRAVEL: Nairobi, Kenya. Travel up to 20%, primarily within Africa.

Key Responsibilities

• Support with policy analysis and advocacy initiatives at country level. Offer guidance; help locate expert advice (internal or external); assist in the collection of best practices and the promotion of successes.
• Lead efforts related to capacity building of field advocacy staff and local partners as well as increased awareness and knowledge of other staff on advocacy issues.
• Ensure policy compliance of national advocacy programs, ensure quality management of national advocacy programs, and validate GMT reports.
• Liaise and coordinate with other subject matter experts in the AO and within the Habitat network to ensure policy and advocacy are mainstreamed across Habitat programs.
• Review and contribute to major grant proposals to ensure funding for advocacy initiatives.
• Lead and coordinate research initiatives contributing to strategy development and implementation.
• Develop and sustain strategic advocacy partnerships at the regional level, particularly with UN-HABITAT, GLTN, African Union, Africa Land Policy Center. Maintain a database of housing and land expert contacts and possible alliances.
• Represent Europe/Middle East/Africa at regional and global conferences and workshops as a speaker and expert.
• Contribute to HFHI global advocacy initiatives and campaigns outside of Africa.
• Contribute to the African Housing Forum design, planning and partnership coordination as well as other major Habitat-led events, workshops, and conferences.
• Contribute to advocacy and fund-raising efforts towards the EU.
• Contribute to organizational communications regarding advocacy on a regular basis.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree specifically in development/housing/sociology/law/communications, or bachelor’s degree in other areas plus additional education or certifications related to advocacy.
• 6-8 years of related experience in advocacy development programs for non-profit organizations in Africa.
• Experience in partnership development with NGOs.
• Experience working with 2+ African countries.
• Working knowledge of national and international government structures and multi-lateral institutions.
• Ability to think strategically.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to working in remote teams and networking skills.
• Coaching/consultancy/advisory skills.
• High proficiency in English.
• Computer literacy (MS office, accounting software systems).
• Active support of HFHI Values & Commitments:

− Humility – We are part of something bigger than ourselves

− Courage – We do what’s right, even when it is difficult or unpopular

− Accountability – We take personal responsibility for Habitat’s mission

• Safeguarding -- HFHI requires that all employees take seriously their ethical responsibilities to safeguarding our intended beneficiaries, their communities, and all those with whom we work. Managers at all levels have responsibilities to support and develop systems that create and maintain an environment that prevents harassment, sexual exploitation, and abuse, safeguards the rights of beneficiaries and community members (especially children), and promotes the implementation of Habitat for Humanity’s code of conduct.

Preferred

• Proficiency in a second language, especially French.
• Master’s degree in international development/public policy/housing.
• Proficiency in proposal development.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Closing date for applications is 24 September 2021