Strategic Planning Consultant (Somalia Stabilization) – IOM

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Lead the strategic framework for community safety in Somalia. IOM is hiring a Strategic Planning Consultant to support the Community Stabilization Unit. Apply by Jan 28.

Job Title: Strategic Planning Consultant

Organization: International Organization for Migration (IOM)

Unit: Community Stabilization Unit (CSU) – Transition & Recovery Pillar

Location: Kenya (with required travel to Somalia)

Project: Rapid Stabilization Support and Early Recovery Initiative

Application Deadline: 28 January 2026

Strategic Context

The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is seeking a Strategic Planning Consultant to support our Community Stabilization Unit (CSU) during a pivotal phase of engagement in Somalia.

As part of the Rapid Stabilization Support and Early Recovery Initiative, co-funded by the FCDO and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Denmark, IOM is implementing the Community Safety and Security Framework (CSSF). This is a locally driven mechanism designed to bridge the gap between short-term stabilization and long-term development.

As the security landscape in Somalia evolves—particularly during the UNTMIS transition process—the CSSF must be institutionalized and potentially scaled up. We require a senior strategist to refine the operational frameworks that will guide this expansion, ensuring long-term sustainability and alignment with government and civil society counterparts.

Scope of the Assignment

This is a Category A consultancy. You will serve as a lead technical architect, working under the supervision of the Security Sector Governance Programme Manager. Your primary mandate is to streamline the strategic direction of the CSSF, ensuring it remains a coherent, evidence-based, and donor-compliant mechanism.

Key Deliverables:

1. Strategy Design & Institutionalization

  • Lead the development and refinement of strategic documents required to operationalize the CSSF across IOM’s stabilization portfolio.
  • Design technical frameworks and guidance materials that enhance the coherence of the CSSF at both Federal and State levels.
  • Ensure all planning documents integrate gender, conflict sensitivity, and social inclusion principles.

2. Research & Analysis

  • Conduct in-depth research on safety and security governance in Somalia. This includes mapping stakeholders, analyzing existing institutional capacities, and identifying gaps to inform decision-making.
  • Analyze the UNTMIS transition process to ensure IOM’s stabilization efforts address critical emerging needs.

3. Documentation & Donor Engagement

  • Draft and review high-level programmatic documents, including strategy papers, concept notes, and policy frameworks.
  • Develop fundraising strategies and positioning materials to support the sustainability of the program.
  • Prepare technical inputs for donor updates and external presentations that clearly demonstrate the value and results of the CSSF approach.

4. Coordination & Learning

  • Facilitate coordination between CSU field teams, the Regional Office, and HQ to ensure operational objectives align with the broader strategy.
  • Collaborate with the Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) team to integrate lessons learned into revised strategies.
  • Document innovations and good practices emerging from implementation to inform future policy adjustments.

Candidate Profile

Education

  • Master’s degree in International Relations, Political Science, Peace and Conflict Studies, Development Studies, or Public Administration with 5 years of relevant professional experience.
  • OR a University degree in a related field with 7 years of relevant professional experience.

Experience & Skills

  • Strategic Writing: Demonstrated expertise in drafting analytical reports, strategic frameworks, and policy papers for international donors (specifically FCDO or similar).
  • Contextual Knowledge: Experience working with government institutions and security actors in fragile or post-conflict settings. Specific experience in Somalia or the Horn of Africa is highly preferred.
  • Governance & Stabilization: A strong background in safety and security governance, peacebuilding, or institutional reform.
  • Coordination: Proven ability to liaise with government officials and facilitate inclusive stakeholder consultations.

Languages

  • Fluency in English is required (written and oral assessments may be conducted).

Core Competencies

The successful candidate will demonstrate IOM’s core values of Inclusion, Integrity, and Professionalism. We are looking for a professional who embodies:

  • Accountability: Takes ownership of priorities and honors commitments.
  • Communication: Explains complex concepts in a clear, motivating manner.
  • delivering Results: Produces quality outputs within tight timelines.

How to Apply

Closing Date: 28 January 2026

Interested candidates are invited to create a profile and submit their application via the IOM Career Gateway.

Important: Please ensure your profile is fully updated before submitting. Incomplete profiles result in automatic disqualification.

Click Here to Apply at IOM Careers

IOM is committed to a diverse and inclusive environment. We encourage applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, nationality, or background.

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