Liaison Officer (TJO)

About the role

The Liaison Officer (TJO) will serve as the primary in‑country point of contact for the International Impartial and Independent Mechanism (IIIM) in Damascus. Reporting to the Head of Entity, the incumbent will coordinate communication between the Mechanism and Syrian authorities, UN partners, civil‑society and other stakeholders. The position is provisional, pending host‑country approval.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain effective working relationships with Syrian authorities, UN Country Team, civil‑society actors and other national and international partners.
• Provide operational and logistical support to IIIM missions and staff, ensuring a shared understanding of the Mechanism’s mandate.
• Prepare secretariat services for official meetings, events and visits, including drafting talking points and speeches for the Head of Entity.
• Supply information and analysis to the Political Affairs Officer to advise senior leadership on transitional‑justice and criminal‑accountability issues.
• Assess policy implications and recommend strategies to advance the Mechanism’s objectives.
• Monitor programme and project development in Syria in coordination with the Programme Management Officer.
• Supervise and monitor the work of subordinate officers.
• Undertake any other duties as assigned.

Required profile

• Demonstrated professionalism in political affairs, crisis management, conflict prevention and mediation.
• Strong analytical abilities and capacity to produce concise briefing material.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for multi‑stakeholder environments.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Commitment to impartiality and independence in investigations of serious crimes.

Required skills