Employment Advisor

Background to LUPD

LUPD is a national non-governmental organization. LUPD is committed to advocating for a society built on principles of social justice, human rights, equality, and solidarity. LUPD work is based on the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Respect for difference, dignity and autonomy, and respect for person’s capacities / Accessibility / Non-discrimination / Participation and inclusion / Equal opportunities for women, men and everybody. LUPD was keen on gender in its training programs, outreach, rehabilitation, employment and follow-up projects that we have carried out for the past three decades. The percentage of females exceeds males by a slight difference in total (54% females, 46% males), even though Females with disabilities are more likely to be marginalized by the family, the local environment and society, which required greater efforts by the implementing program teams, in addition to mitigating violence against WGwDs. The multiple crises in Lebanon have aggravated pre-existing vulnerabilities and a challenging humanitarian situation for the most vulnerable Lebanese, as well as for different refugees in Lebanon, and for migrant workers. Consequently, they disproportionately affect people with disabilities. LUPD’s programs have responded, providing emergency relief and rehabilitation for refugees, promoting inclusive, accessible schools and access to employment, engaging people with disabilities in local decision making and monitoring progress on disability rights across the country.

Job Overview:

The Employment Advisor will play a pivotal role in leading and implementing the employment component of the project. This person will be responsible for strategically identifying, cultivating, and securing employment opportunities for persons with disabilities within the private sector, with a primary focus on the food sector and other key industries. The Advisor will lead a dedicated team, develop region-specific execution plans, and ensure systematic follow-up, while fostering strong relationships with businesses and industry actors. Strong public relations (PR) and business engagement skills are essential to effectively bridge the gap between job seekers with disabilities and potential employers.

Duties and Responsibilities

A. Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop and implement a comprehensive employment strategy linking persons with disabilities to relevant job opportunities, considering the economic context of the three project regions.
• Define clear objectives, targets, and performance indicators for employment outcomes.
• Continuously assess labor market trends and identify emerging opportunities for targeted beneficiaries.

B. Team Leadership & Capacity Building

• Establish, lead, and mentor a multidisciplinary team of regional field coordinators and social workers to enhance employment opportunities for persons with disabilities.
• Design and deliver targeted training programs for the team on employment methodologies, private sector engagement, and follow-up mechanisms.
• Provide ongoing technical guidance, fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Implement systematic follow-up processes to monitor progress, address challenges, and ensure effective employment plan implementation.

C. Private Sector Engagement & Networking

• Build and maintain strong relationships with private sector entities, particularly in the food sector and other identified industries.
• Conduct field visits and meetings with employers to identify job vacancies and advocate for the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
• Engage with business associations, chambers of commerce, and other actors to create partnership opportunities.
• Organize activities and events that connect the project with the local private sector.

D. Coordination & Inclusion

• Collaborate closely with the Inclusion Officer to ensure inclusive practices throughout the employment process, including job coaching, job seeker preparation, and workplace adaptations.
• Prepare employers for hiring persons with disabilities through induction meetings, awareness sessions, and capacity-building workshops.
• Facilitate accessibility audits and recommend workplace adaptations as needed.

E. Monitoring, Evaluation & Reporting

• Monitor the progress of beneficiaries placed in employment and collect feedback from employers and employees.
• Document best practices, lessons learned, and success stories.
• Prepare regular reports on employment outcomes, private sector engagement, and team performance.

Qualifications and Skills

• Master’s degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or related field. A Bachelor’s degree with extensive relevant experience may be considered.
• Minimum of 7 years of professional experience in private sector engagement, business development, employment services, livelihoods programming, or HR, preferably in a development context.
• Proven experience in PR, networking, and building strategic partnerships with diverse stakeholders.
• Experience working with marginalized groups, particularly persons with disabilities, in employment or economic inclusion is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated team leadership and capacity-building experience, including managing field-based teams.
• Knowledge of the food sector and other key economic sectors is highly desirable.
• Experience designing and delivering training programs.
• Strong understanding of regional socio-economic contexts and approaches.
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and strategic planning abilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite; additional software skills are a plus.
• Fluency in written and spoken English and Arabic; French is an asset.
• Commitment to gender equality, diversity, and inclusion principles.