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Special Adviser to the Chairperson of the AU Commission (Sudan - Political Dialogue and Process Negotiation)

The Norwegian Refugee Council
2 days ago
Full-time
On-site
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Description

Introduction

NORCAP works to improve aid to better protect and empower people affected by crisis and climate change. We do this by providing expertise and solutions to humanitarian, development and peacebuilding partners, because we believe working together is the best way to reduce needs, risks and vulnerability over time. We seek and promote more effective ways of working at the global level and in the field. NORCAP’s aim is not only to reduce needs, but also to create choice and opportunity for vulnerable people. NORCAP works with and through our partners to improve aid in two complementary ways:

  • We provide targeted expertise to strengthen our partners’ response.
  • We collaborate with partners to develop solutions to unmet gaps and challenges.
This role is central to delivering NORCAP’s commitment to strengthen peacebuilding, political dialogue, and collaborative approaches to crisis response.
 
In partnership with the African Union, NORCAP is supporting efforts to advance inclusive political dialogue and peacebuilding in Sudan. Working within the Cabinet of the Chairperson, the successful candidate will help coordinate dialogue processes, engage key stakeholders, and provide strategic advice to strengthen the African Union’s role in supporting Sudan’s political transition efforts
 

The Role

The Special Adviser on Sudan – Political Dialogue and Process Coordination will support the Chairperson of the African Union, through the Chief of Staff, in advancing and coordinating AU-supported civilian dialogue efforts in Sudan. Success in this role will be measured through strengthened stakeholder engagement, improved coordination across political initiatives, high-quality analytical outputs, and effective operational follow-up of dialogue processes.

This role is based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with regular missions to Khartoum as security conditions permit. The initial deployment is for twelve months, renewable subject to operational requirements and performance. The role reports to the Chief of Staff within the Cabinet of the Chairperson.
 


Responsibilities

As the Special Adviser on Sudan – Political Dialogue and Process Coordination, you will take on the following responsibilities:

  • Support the structuring, coordination, and advancement of AU-supported civilian dialogue processes relating to Sudan.
  • Maintain day-to-day engagement with stakeholders, including mapping actors, facilitating engagement, and tracking commitments.
  • Provide regular political analysis, strategic advice, and recommendations to support decision-making and AU engagement.
  • Monitor dialogue processes and ensure systematic follow-up of political developments and stakeholder interactions.
  • Strengthen coherence and coordination between African Union initiatives and regional and international efforts relating to Sudan.
  • Establish and maintain effective coordination mechanisms with AU departments, partners, and relevant external stakeholders.
  • Prepare strategic briefings, talking points, analytical papers, progress reports, and mediation support materials.
  • Support the planning and delivery of major African Union political dialogue and peacebuilding initiatives.

 

Kindly note that this role is with the African Union and is therefore restricted to valid passport-holding nationals of AU member states.


Qualifications

To excel in this role, candidates should possess the following qualifications and skills:

  • Advanced degree in International Relations, Political Science, Law, or a related field.
  • A minimum of 10–15 years of relevant professional experience in mediation, conflict resolution, political dialogue, peace processes, or related fields.
  • Demonstrated experience working on Sudan and/or the Horn of Africa region.
  • Strong analytical, political assessment, and strategic advisory capabilities.
  • Excellent drafting, reporting, and communication skills, with the ability to produce high-quality analytical products.
  • Fluency in both English and Arabic. 
  • Please read the attached terms of reference for more details before applying.

 

Competencies

The main competencies of a NORCAP Expert are:

  • Building working relationships
  • Planning and organising
  • Coping with change
  • Communicating with impact

What We Offer

In recognition of your expertise and contributions, we provide the following benefits and opportunities:

  • Rewarding work for a renowned global organisation
  • Access to a network of humanitarian, peace, and development professionals
  • A dedicated Staff Care Unit
  • Eligibility for consideration for NORCAP membership and future assignments, subject to a successful performance review

Our Values & Commitment

NORCAP is part of the Norwegian Refugee Council (NRC).

All NRC employees are expected to act in accordance with the organisation’s values.

Being dedicated, innovative, inclusive, and accountable are behaviours and beliefs that guide how we work and how we build relationships. We are committed to creating a safe, respectful, and inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, empowered, supported, and a genuine sense of belonging.

NORCAP values diversity, equity, and inclusion and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates. We believe that a diverse workforce strengthens our ability to respond effectively to the needs of people affected by crisis.

NRC has a zero-tolerance stance toward any form of exploitation or abuse, including sexual exploitation, abuse, and harassment (SEAH), and we do not tolerate inaction when concerns arise.

All offers are subject to reference and background checks conducted in line with our safeguarding standards, and NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates.

 

How to Apply

Based on what you have read so far, do you think you could be a good fit? If so, please follow these steps and apply!

When submitting your application, kindly register in English your full employment history and education. Please include your full name as written in your passport. Uploaded CVs alone will not be reviewed.

  • NORCAP reserves the right to conduct a full background check on shortlisted candidates.
  • Approved Health Certificate will be required prior to contract commencement and assignment.
  • Feedback will be given to all applicants within four weeks after the closing of this advertisement.
  • Apply before 26th July 2026, 11.59 PM (Norwegian time)

We look forward to receiving your application!