Senior Administrative Assistant

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Office for Digital and Emerging Technologies (UNODET) was established on January 1, 202

• Its mission is to advise the senior leadership of the United Nations on key trends in technology, advocate for digital cooperation, facilitate multi-stakeholder policy dialogue, strengthen system-wide coordination on digital technologies, and support the implementation of the Global Digital Compact. UNODET operates under the guidance of the Under-Secretary-General and Special Envoy for Digital and Emerging Technologies, working closely with various UN entities and stakeholders to enhance global digital cooperation and mitigate associated risks, aiming to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030.

Job Overview:
The Senior Administrative Assistant plays a crucial role in supporting the Under Secretary General (USG) by managing their calendar, correspondence, and travel arrangements. This position requires a high level of professionalism and the ability to prioritize tasks effectively. The assistant will be responsible for ensuring smooth communication between the USG and senior staff, as well as managing various administrative duties that contribute to the overall efficiency of the office. The role demands a proactive approach to handling sensitive information and urgent matters, ensuring that the USG is well-informed and prepared for meetings with high-ranking officials and dignitaries. The assistant will also coordinate multiple activities and workflows, providing substantive support to the USG and the work unit.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Administrative Assistant will manage the USG's calendar, prioritizing meetings with Heads of Missions, Prime Ministers, and other high-ranking officials. They will read and route correspondence, maintain files, and prepare travel programs. The assistant will handle administrative duties such as processing leave requests, attendance records, and travel arrangements. They will serve as a communication link between the USG and senior staff, screening incoming correspondence and identifying issues requiring attention. The role also involves monitoring actions to be taken and ensuring that the USG is informed of relevant updates and directives. Additionally, the assistant will be responsible for maintaining organizational efficiency by coordinating diverse activities and managing workflow effectively.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a high school diploma or equivalent. A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, human resources, or a related field is required. Previous experience in a front-office environment of senior management within an international organization is essential. Familiarity with UN administrative processes using Umoja or a similar ERP system is necessary, along with experience in supporting evaluation functions and analyzing data for reporting purposes. Knowledge of digital cooperation and emerging technologies is desirable.

Educational Background:
The position requires at least a high school diploma or equivalent. While no specific advanced degree is mentioned, candidates with higher education qualifications may have an advantage in the selection process.

Experience:
A minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in administrative services, finance, accounting, audit, human resources, or a related field is required. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience with UN administrative processes using Umoja or a similar ERP system, including financial functions, travel, HR actions, or procurement routing. Additionally, 1 year of experience in supporting evaluation functions and familiarity with data analysis tools is desirable.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations Secretariat, and proficiency in French may be considered an asset, although it is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve working in a non-smoking environment. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are encouraged to provide complete and accurate information in their applications. The assessment process may include a test and competency-based interview. Candidates under serious consideration will undergo reference checks to verify their qualifications.