Reports Officer

Role overview

This position is centered on preparing frequent reports for a priority initiative in the Malawi office. It involves regular coordination with colleagues and stakeholders to gather updates, rapidly distill information, and turn it into polished donor-facing documents. The role sits within a lively Partnerships Unit that forms part of the Communication, Advocacy and Partnerships Section, and offers strong exposure to a fast-moving environment where report quality and timeliness are essential.

Purpose of the role

The main objective is to help the office maintain its strong record of delivering accurate, high-quality reports on time. The post also supports donor relationships by coordinating reporting activities and contributing to important donor-facing touchpoints.

Key responsibilities

This role covers end-to-end donor reporting, data handling, monitoring support, report preparation, stakeholder communication, knowledge management, and donor visibility activities.

Project reporting and data management

• Lead the creation and rollout of a complete donor reporting approach for UNICEF Malawi, with a focus on submitting project reports on schedule and at a high standard.
• Coordinate the collection, merging, and checking of project data from multiple sources so that reporting remains accurate and consistent.
• Use strong analytical methods to examine project information, spot trends, and convert findings into practical recommendations for project improvement and decision-making.
• Make sure all reporting complies with donor instructions and organizational expectations, including branding and layout rules.

Monitoring and evaluation support

• Build, improve, and maintain systems for monitoring and reporting that track project progress against KPIs and milestones.
• Create and update reporting tools and templates that make the reporting process smoother and more efficient.
• Strengthen staff capability in monitoring and reporting by providing training, advice, and troubleshooting support.
• Carry out regular checks on data quality to confirm that reported information is dependable and valid.

Report production and dissemination

• Write and prepare strong project reports, including progress updates, annual reports, and ad hoc briefings, adapted to donor expectations and communication goals.
• Ensure reports are shared promptly with the right audiences, including donors, partners, and internal teams, through suitable channels.
• Develop clear presentations and infographics that help communicate project results in a visually engaging way.

Donor relations and communication

• Maintain an organized donor reporting pipeline and keep a live tracker so inputs and submissions across teams stay on time.
• Act as a main contact for donor questions related to reporting and provide fast, accurate responses.
• Assist the Partnerships Specialist in strengthening donor relationships through effective communication and engagement.

Knowledge management and governance

• Embed strong knowledge management and reporting governance practices, with complete documentation and records that are ready for audit.
• Set up and maintain a central repository for project reports, data, and related files in SharePoint or another designated platform.
• Develop and apply reporting procedures and guidelines to keep practice consistent and compliant across projects.

Donor visibility and recognition

• Work with the Partnerships Specialist to lead donor visibility and relationship activities that support donor recognition.
• Ensure donor visibility obligations are reflected in all project communications and activities, in line with donor agreements and organizational policies.
• Identify ways to acknowledge donor support through events, publications, and digital platforms.

Education

A university degree is required in economics, international relations, social policy, finance and development, or another closely related field.

Experience

At least two years of progressive professional experience at national or international level is required in one or more of the following areas: donor reporting, partnerships management, or blended and results-based financing, when holding a bachelor’s degree. Experience with international financial institutions or other multilateral agencies is also expected. The role calls for experience in preparing or reviewing strong written materials, including analytical and narrative reports, along with solid strategic thinking and the ability to turn complex information into clear, practical insights. Prior work with international organizations, international financial institutions, or development finance institutions is also required. Strong interpersonal and communication abilities are important for working well with a wide range of stakeholders.

Desired profile

Applicants should have good computer literacy, including confidence with standard office tools and data management software. The role also suits someone who is self-driven, can work independently, handle several priorities at once, and meet demanding deadlines.

Work environment

This is a full-time, on-site position based in Lilongwe, Central Region, Malawi.