Traineeship in the field of Institutional Partnerships

What we do

The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) works worldwide to provide humanitarian assistance to people affected by conflict and armed violence. We take action in response to emergencies and, at the same time, promote respect for international humanitarian law. We are an independent and neutral organization, and our mandate stems essentially from the Geneva Conventions of 1949. We work closely with the National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies and with their International Federation in order to ensure a concerted, rational and rapid humanitarian response to the needs of victims of armed conflict or any other situations of internal violence. We direct and coordinate the international activities conducted in these situations.

In recent years, partnering has proven effective for the ICRC to stay fit for purpose and achieve positive outcomes for affected populations, notably by extending/complementing its networks, knowledge, and expertise. Partnering is complimentary to the ICRC’s direct delivery mode of operation and can contribute to the ICRC’s objectives, such as: 

• Fast and relevant emergency response by acting as one RCRC Movement and through increased collaboration with local actors.
• Greater and more sustainable humanitarian impact through operational and financial sustainability via partnering with Development and other actors.
• Increased influence on advocacy and policy/decision making thanks to joining forces with relevant partners including UN agencies, Development Actors, private sector and partners from within the Movement.
• Increased resources – human and financial – as well as knowledge and expertise with and through partnerships with the private sector, academia, development actors and Movement partners

Nevertheless, partnerships have grown organically at the ICRC, generating a dynamic but fragmented landscape. Various colleagues across the ICRC are involved in partnership management and frequently ask for clear guidance and support on their partnership efforts to improve their impact. Hence, there was a need for central steering and to be more strategic about partnership choices, which led to creating a partnership team and other forums. This steering helps to ensure coherence in the partnering approach across different types of partnerships to promote partnering efforts and ensure buy-in across the house.
 

Purpose

This position aims to continue building partnering capabilities in general, seeking synergies to support the ICRC’s ambitions, adapting systems and processes, and improving organizational readiness to partner. To this end, the Partnerships Associate is part of a dynamic and agile team within the Department of Mobilization, Movement & Partnerships (MMP). It works closely with the Partnerships Coordinator and the Partnership Advisor, and it regularly engages with a variety of ICRC colleagues working on partnerships both at HQ and in the field. They serve as a focal point for a mapping and data-capturing project on partnerships. They contribute to improving partnership capabilities and guidelines and disseminate partnering knowledge through existing communication tools and platforms. They also support the operation of a partnership governance mechanism – the Partnership Council (PtP-C) – and its workstreams and priorities.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Works with the Partnership Coordinator and Partnership Advisor and supports them in their role as focal points for global, institutional partnerships by assisting and co-stewarding various initiatives. 
• Helps convene colleagues to shape the institutional partnering agenda and implement key activities, such as developing a partnership portfolio, internal guidelines, and frameworks.
• Supports the Partnership unit as co – ‘business owner’ of the Partnership Product line – which involves a Mapping/Data collection project, and regularly interacts with key stakeholders at HQ and in the field, including the MMP operating manager and colleagues working on similar IT solutions. 
• Assists in preparing documents required by the Partnership Council (PTP-C) and other internal workstreams related to partnering, such as risk management. Produces minutes of meetings when necessary.
• Supports efforts to strengthen learning, peer support and knowledge management by leading wide consultation sessions and ad-hoc initiatives dedicated to partnership practitioners.
• Provides ad-hoc administrative support, keeps internal information systems up-to-date and assists with organising meetings and events.
• Provides support to any other priority area as priorities, ambitions, and working modalities will evolve throughout the year.

Reports to (role)

The Partnership Coordinator in the Department of Mobilization, Movement & Partnerships (MMP)

Education and experience required

• Master’s degree in international relations/affairs, development, business, economics, or humanitarian action.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and articulate ideas clearly, orally and in writing, including to top management.
• Ability to manage time effectively, working under pressure with tight deadlines and prioritizing longer-term initiatives.
• A commitment to working in a dynamic, international environment and availability for 1 year.
• Experience or a strong interest in data management, mappings, and Customer Relationship Management (CRM) IT tools.
• Fluency in English and proficiency in French are advantageous for engaging with stakeholders.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and other relevant office software.

Desired profile and skills

• A collaborative attitude and strong networking skills to engage with a broad spectrum of stakeholders.
• A proactive approach, with keen insight into identifying requirements and seizing opportunities.
• Strong critical thinking skills and the ability to construct factual, evidence-based arguments, both orally and in writing.
• Adaptability and the capacity to navigate uncertainty in a changing environment.
• Previous experience in partnership, client-oriented work, and external relations, with the ability to interact effectively with high-level stakeholders.
• A demonstrated interest in and aptitude for partnership engagement and relationship management.
• Experience in project management or independently leading long-term activities.
• Prior involvement in international humanitarian and/or development organizations, the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, or roles in marketing, communication, or business within international contexts will be highly regarded.

Our Values

At the ICRC, we value impact, collaboration, respect, and compassion. We seek candidates who demonstrate behaviours based on these shared values.

For more information on the ICRC values, please visit this

Additional information

• Location: Geneva
• Type of contract: Traineeship
• Length of assignment: 12 months
• Relocation: Not provided for traineeships
• Visa/permit: Legitimacy card provided
• Gross monthly salary: 3,840 CHF
• Estimated start date: June 2024
• Application deadline: Sunday, 5 May 2024 

The ICRC values diversity and is committed to crafting an inclusive working environment. We encourage applications from all qualified candidates.

Application submission guidelines

Please ensure your application includes the following:

• A Cover Letter, not exceeding 500 words, highlighting the skills and experience you bring to the position.
• A Curriculum Vitae (CV), limited to 2 pages without photos.
• Copies of your diplomas, work certificates, and a colour scan of your passport should be uploaded in your candidate profile’s ‘Additional Documents’ field.