Special Adviser to the Chairperson of the AU Commission (Sudan - Political Dialogue and Process Negotiation)
Support the Chairperson of the African Union by coordinating dialogue processes in Sudan.
Overview
Support the Chairperson of the African Union by coordinating dialogue processes in Sudan.
You have:
- 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.
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.
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!
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.
Potential interview questions
| Can you provide an example of a successful mediation or dialogue process you facilitated? | This question evaluates your practical experience and success in managing dialogue processes. | Describe the context and your role in facilitating the process, highlighting key outcomes. |
| What strategies would you employ to strengthen stakeholder engagement in Sudan? | This question assesses your strategic thinking and approach to stakeholder management. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you approach drafting analytical reports under tight deadlines? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| Describe your experience with political analysis in conflict situations. | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How do you handle disagreements between key stakeholders in a political dialogue process? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What role does culture play in political dialogue processes, especially in Sudan? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| What methods would you use to assess the sustainability of the dialogue processes you support? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |
| How would you maintain communication with the Chief of Staff and other senior officials? | Pro members can see the explanation. | Pro members can see the explanation. |