Intergovernmental Engagement Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is the lead United Nations agency focused on international development. Established over six decades ago, UNDP operates in approximately 170 countries and territories worldwide. The organization is dedicated to improving human development and providing integrated support to enhance the lives of millions globally. UNDP's Strategic Plan for 2026-2029 aims to assist countries and communities in achieving high human development while ensuring environmental sustainability. This plan is driven by four strategic objectives: prosperity for all, effective governance, crisis resilience, and a healthy planet. Additionally, it emphasizes three accelerators: digital and AI transformation, gender equality, and sustainable finance, all grounded in a commitment to human rights and inclusivity. The Bureau for Advocacy and External Relations (BERA) plays a crucial role in building strategic relationships and alliances, delivering a strong public narrative about UNDP's impact, and aligning with partners to develop solutions for sustainable development. BERA also manages relationships with traditional donors and seeks innovative funding opportunities, ensuring that UNDP's mission and capabilities are well understood by partners and supporters.

Job Overview:
The Intergovernmental Engagement Specialist is a pivotal role within UNDP, working under the guidance of the Team Leader for UN System Affairs. This position is essential for facilitating UNDP's engagement with Member States and various stakeholders, including entities from the UN Secretariat. The specialist is expected to adopt a portfolio approach, recognizing the interconnected nature of global development challenges and crises. This role requires collaboration across different issues, units, and teams to foster horizontal cooperation and achieve strategic goals. The specialist will be responsible for supporting BERA's leadership in preparing for Executive Board sessions, coordinating with Member States, and engaging with UN entities. The position demands a proactive approach to political analysis, relationship management, and strategic positioning within intergovernmental fora, ensuring that UNDP's objectives are effectively communicated and advanced.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Support BERA’s leadership in UNDP's internal preparations for Executive Board sessions, including coordinating inter-bureau planning meetings and developing key documentation such as messages and position papers.
• Maintain strong relationships with Member States and engage with UN entities on relevant matters, advising on targeted engagements at senior and technical levels.
• Conduct political analyses of intergovernmental developments, tracking Member States' positions and identifying strategic opportunities for UNDP.
• Advise on UNDP's engagements in key intergovernmental fora, including the High-Level Political Forum and the UN General Assembly, ensuring effective participation and follow-up.
• Prepare and review reports, speeches, and briefing notes for senior management, ensuring clear communication of complex political issues.
• Develop audience-centric strategies for managing relationships with Permanent Missions and other stakeholders, contributing to policy proposals and position papers.
• Monitor and analyze intergovernmental discussions, providing insights and recommendations for UNDP's strategic positioning.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong understanding of the UN system, particularly in intergovernmental affairs. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience is required for those with a Bachelor's degree, or 9 years for those with a Master's degree. Experience should include engagement with UNDP or within the UN System, as well as experience in government or intergovernmental organizations. Proven skills in political analysis, advocacy, and relationship management are essential. Candidates should demonstrate exceptional drafting abilities and the capacity to communicate complex political issues effectively. Strong networking skills and the ability to build relationships with Permanent Missions and diplomatic stakeholders are crucial for success in this role.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (master’s degree or equivalent) in International Relations, Public Administration, or other related Social Sciences fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (bachelor’s degree) in the aforementioned fields, combined with an additional 2 years of qualifying experience, will be considered in lieu of an advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of experience for candidates with a Bachelor's degree or 9 years for those with a Master's degree. This experience should be within UNDP, the UN System, or related governmental and intergovernmental organizations. Candidates must have a strong knowledge of the UN system and a proven track record in inter-agency and intergovernmental engagement, including experience in diplomatic relations and political analysis. Demonstrated ability to build and maintain relationships with Permanent Missions and government representatives is essential, along with expertise in drafting briefing notes and position papers.

Languages:
Proficiency in oral and written English is mandatory. A working knowledge of another UN language is considered a strong asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with diverse stakeholders and contribute to UNDP's global mission.

Additional Notes:
This position is a full-time role within UNDP, and candidates are encouraged to apply regardless of their background, as UNDP values diversity and inclusivity. The organization is committed to creating a workplace where all personnel can thrive and contribute to its mission. Selected candidates will undergo relevant checks and are expected to adhere to UNDP's standards and principles, including a zero-tolerance policy for harassment and discrimination. The right to select multiple candidates is reserved, and applications may be retained for consideration for similar positions within UNDP.