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Next year will be a landmark year for the ChildFund Alliance, as it marks both the high-level forum on the SDGS and the 30th anniversary of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. As the UN Representative, you will coordinate the Alliance’s engagements and contributions to these influential policy processes. As well as knowing how to access and influence the UN and related entities, you are a strong and strategic communicator, motivated to make the most of 2019 as a golden moment for children’s rights.

About ChildFund Alliance

ChildFund Alliance is a network of 11 child-focused development organizations working in more than 60 countries around the world. The Alliance helps more than 14 million children and their families to overcome poverty. Each member organization promotes child sponsorship to create child-focused, community-based development programs in areas where children are impacted by war, natural disaster, poverty and global health issues. ChildFund works in partnership with local communities and the participation of children is a critical component of their approach.

The ChildFund Alliance Secretariat oversees the day-to-day operations of the Alliance. It develops and works with members to implement Alliance-wide strategy, standards and policies. The Secretariat represents the Alliance at international forums such as the United Nations and the European Union.

About the Role

The ChildFund Alliance Representative to the United Nations is the focal point for ChildFund’s relationships with the UN and its specialized agencies, inter-governmental organizations, regional bodies and UN Missions.

Purpose of the Role

The Representative is responsible for building strategic relationships with UN entities on behalf of Childfund Alliance. The aim is to ensure that the voices and interests of children, their families and communities are represented in key decisions that influence global outcomes and processes to End Violence Against Children (EVAC) in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target on violence against children.

Duties and Responsibilities

Reporting to the ChildFund Alliance Secretary-General, the UN Representative works with the Alliance Secretariat, the European Union Office, the Advocacy Task Force, the Alliance Program Committee and other member forums to:

1. Develop and implement the UN strategy providing direction for ChildFund Alliance at the UN and its specialized agencies, inter-governmental organizations, regional bodies and UN Missions.

2. Coordinate the ChildFund Alliance’s engagement and contributions to the SDG process, particularly on SDG 16.2 (ending all forms of violence against children) and its related targets by:

• obtaining information and updating the Secretariat and Members on critical developments; and
• creating opportunities for ChildFund to contribute its perspectives on EVAC-related initiatives through engagement in events, workshops and other forums held in conjunction with UN-related sessions and processes. These include the High-Level Political Forum, the UN General Assembly, Financing for Development, Third Committee, UNICEF Executive Board sessions, and others.

3. Build strategic alliances and partnerships with

• UN representatives of civil society organizations, including the primary international child-focused agencies such as Plan International, Save the Children, SOS Children’s Villages, Terre des Hommes and World Vision;
• the Global Partnership to End Violence against Children; coalitions such as Together 2030 and the Global Coalition to End Child Poverty; regional bodies and key individuals who could advance SDG 16.2 and ChildFund’s core strategic priorities.

4. Identify opportunities and initiatives that require high-level or sustained engagement by the Secretary-General to advance advocacy goals or ChildFund’s profile. Keep the SG informed of UN developments and opportunities that relate to the SG’s role as Chief Advocate for the Alliance.

5. Support the work of other key ChildFund Alliance staff and members through regular updates on UN and SDG developments and media opportunities, as well as supporting visits to the UN or participating in key events.

6. Support the implementation of ChildFund Alliance’s “Keeping Children Safe Policy Guidelines” and offer technical assistance as needed.

Skills and Experience

A Master’s degree in Global Affairs or an equivalent degree is required for this role. Furthermore, to be successful in this role we expect you to demonstrate:

• Advocacy: Track record in advocacy with working knowledge of the UN system in New York. Knowledge of Human Rights-based frameworks essential; experience in child rights and protection is an advantage.
• Networking: Strong networker, with a track record of collaborations with stakeholders from different backgrounds and needs. Able to make connections and building trusting relationships.
• Communication & Diplomacy: Demonstrated ability to make the case for ChildFund’s mission in formal UN settings and with diverse partners. Takes the high road to gain access and create new strategic connections and opportunities for influence for the Alliance.
• Teamwork: Demonstrated ability to work efficiently and collaboratively as a team player, influencing and inspiring colleagues. Previous success in a membership-driven context, with the skills to negotiate and add value to network partners. Shares information openly, takes the initiative and makes informed recommendations.
• Interpersonal skills: Highly professional, meticulous and detail-oriented. Energetic, with flexibility and patience. Committed and motivated by Childfund’s aims.

This position is open to candidates who can be based and work in the New York City office of ChildFund Alliance. The right to work in the USA is required.