Application Deadline
February 16, 2026
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) is seeking a highly experienced senior leader to serve as Chief of Mission with Advocacy and Partnership (D-1), based in Seoul, Republic of Korea. This fixed-term appointment is offered for one year, with the possibility of extension, and represents a strategic leadership role within IOM’s Country Office for Partnerships and Advocacy (COPA). Organisational Context Established in 1951, IOM is a Related Organization of the United Nations and the leading intergovernmental agency working on migration. With more than 22,000 staff across over 580 locations worldwide, IOM supports governments, migrants, and partners to promote humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all. IOM is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and high-performing workplace. Applications are strongly encouraged from qualified women candidates and nationals of non-represented IOM Member States, in line with IOM’s diversity and inclusion priorities. Role Overview Under the overall supervision of the Director, Office of Partnerships, Advocacy and Communications, and the direct supervision of the Director, Resource Mobilization Division, the Chief of Mission (COPA) holds full accountability for IOM’s activities in the Republic of Korea. The role combines strategic leadership, advocacy, partnerships, and resource mobilization, while ensuring strong programme oversight, financial stewardship, and alignment with IOM’s Strategic Vision. In programme-related matters, the Chief of Mission also works closely with the UN Resident Coordinator to support the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) and the 2030 Agenda. Strategic Leadership and Programme Development The Chief of Mission provides strategic direction for IOM’s country-level mandate and positioning by: Leading strategic planning, results-based management, and operational excellence Ensuring IOM policies and priorities are reflected in national migration dialogues Advising headquarters and regional leadership on migration trends and policy developments Supporting government engagement in global and regional migration processes, including the Global Compact for Migration and the Global Forum on Migration and Development The role also ensures continuous learning and integration of lessons learned into future planning cycles. Resource Mobilization and Partnerships A central responsibility of the position is the development and implementation of robust fundraising strategies. This includes: Leading engagement with bilateral and multilateral donors, government counterparts, and private-sector partners Developing and submitting funding proposals aligned with national and regional priorities Establishing proactive resource pipelines and organizing annual fundraising initiatives Supporting joint resource mobilization efforts within the UN Country Team The Chief of Mission plays a visible external-facing role, strengthening IOM’s partnerships and public profile. Programme Oversight and Accountability The position carries full responsibility for the quality, impact, and accountability of IOM’s programmes, including: Oversight of project design, implementation, and evaluation Ensuring accurate narrative, financial, and results reporting to donors and partners Monitoring performance against the UNSDCF and inter-agency commitments Upholding strong internal controls and risk management practices Regular reporting is provided to senior leadership, donors, and national authorities. UN Engagement and Inter-Agency Coordination The Chief of Mission represents IOM within the UN Country Team, ensuring that migration is fully integrated into UN planning and coordination mechanisms. Responsibilities include: Active participation in UNCT and, where applicable, Humanitarian Country Team processes Supporting joint programming and collective results under the UNSDCF Strengthening inter-agency responses to sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, xenophobia, and discrimination People, Resources, and Knowledge Management The role provides executive oversight of country office operations, including: Human resources, finance, administration, and security management Budget oversight and compliance with IOM financial and procurement rules Knowledge generation, learning, and innovation across programmes Capacity development and leadership growth for staff Required Qualifications and Experience Education and Experience Master’s degree in a relevant field with at least 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience Extensive senior-level experience in programme leadership, diplomacy, fundraising, and resource management Proven track record managing large, complex migration programmes in development and emergency contexts Skills and Languages Excellent communication, negotiation, and public representation skills Strong understanding of UN systems, donor frameworks, and monitoring and evaluation Fluency in English required; additional UN languages or Korean language skills are an advantage Values and Competencies All candidates must demonstrate alignment with IOM’s values of inclusion, integrity, professionalism, courage, and empathy, as well as strong leadership, accountability, strategic thinking, and people management capabilities. Additional Information This position is internationally recruited and requires mobility Appointment is subject to funding confirmation, medical clearance, and security checks IOM maintains a zero-tolerance policy toward misconduct, discrimination, and abuse Only applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system will be considered, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram , WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and Telegram Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the seeking organization. For any inquiries, please contact the responsible organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.
Category
grant
Type
online
Organization / Source
globalsouthopportunities.com
Posted
January 17, 2026
Explore our curated collection of opportunities in the same category or browse all available opportunities.