Policy Associate

About the Organization

Founded in 1951, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) is a United Nations affiliated entity specializing in migration-related issues. Collaborating closely with government bodies, intergovernmental organizations, and NGOs, IOM supports humane and regulated migration processes benefiting all parties. It offers lifesaving assistance, safeguards travelers, addresses displacement crises, and promotes orderly migration pathways while advising both governments and migrants.

IOM is committed to nurturing a respectful, inclusive workplace that encourages professional growth and values its employees. The organization strives to harness migration's potential fully by supporting people on the move effectively.

Position Overview

The Policy Associate role is part of the Migrant Protection and Assistance (MPA) program, which has been operating since 2007 to provide humanitarian and safeguarding services to migrants, particularly those transiting Somalia along the eastern corridor. The program supports individuals, communities, policy frameworks, and capacity building aligned with international agreements such as the Global Compact for Migration (GCM) and Sustainable Development Goals.

Based in Nairobi, Kenya, the associate will aid in migration governance activities, contributing to implementation, communication, and reporting efforts in close cooperation with MPA staff and relevant partners, including Somali government representatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist with executing project site plans and activities by facilitating stakeholder meetings.
• Coordinate with the Nairobi IOM Somalia office and support procurement and financial operations under organizational regulations, maintaining accurate records.
• Conduct regular field visits to monitor project progress, report urgent concerns and document effective practices.
• Collaborate with Labour Migration and Human Development and Immigration and Border Governance units on policy development, coordination mechanisms, and migration governance projects with Somali authorities and partners.
• Organize weekly and monthly project reviews by compiling updates on progress, challenges, and action items for supervisory review.
• Support report drafting by gathering data on project indicators and contributing to internal and external documentation requirements.
• Maintain communication with project stakeholders to monitor planned activities and promptly escalate issues as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by supervisors.

Qualifications and Experience

• Education: High school diploma with at least five years of relevant experience, or a Bachelor's degree in social sciences, natural sciences, engineering, business administration, or related fields with a minimum of three years of professional experience.
• Experience in implementing immigration and border governance projects.
• Proven experience liaising and communicating with government and project partners.
• Skilled in organizing workshops and training sessions.
• Adept at report writing in English.
• Familiarity with procurement and finance support processes.
• Proficient in computer applications including Microsoft Office Suite and internet tools.

Language Requirements

Fluency in English and Swahili (written and spoken) is mandatory. Language skills will be assessed during selection.

Core Competencies

• Values inclusion, respect for diversity, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy.
• Demonstrates teamwork, accountability, knowledge sharing, effective communication, and result-orientation.
• If applicable, leadership qualities including strategic thinking, trust building, empowerment, and humility.

Additional Information

This position is contingent upon funding approval. Selected candidates may remain eligible for similar roles across duty stations for up to 24 months. Appointment requires medical clearance, accreditation, residency or visa compliance, and security clearances. IOM strictly prohibits misconduct including harassment and discrimination and does not charge recruitment fees.