Deputy Country Representative (DCR)

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women is a global champion for gender equality and the empowerment of women, established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda. The organization was created to consolidate and enhance the work of four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on gender equality and women's empowerment. UN Women operates in multiple countries, including Pakistan, where it has been active since 2007, working closely with the government and various stakeholders to promote women's rights and gender equality. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and competence, regardless of race, gender, or other characteristics.

Job Overview:
The Deputy Country Representative (DCR) plays a crucial role in the management of the UN Women Country Office in Pakistan. Reporting directly to the Country Representative, the DCR is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the office, ensuring that the country programme is effectively designed, implemented, and managed. The DCR will work closely with the Operations Manager to integrate programming and operations, maximizing efficiency and promoting teamwork. This position requires a strategic thinker who can provide advisory support on the direction of the office, represent UN Women in various UN coordination efforts, and facilitate partnerships and resource mobilization strategies. The DCR will also be involved in advocacy efforts and knowledge management initiatives, contributing to the overall mission of empowering women and achieving gender equality.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Manage the programme team, including overseeing the annual workplan, monitoring programme implementation, and preparing progress reports.
• Provide advisory and technical support to the Country Representative on strategic areas and ensure compliance in programme monitoring and evaluation.
• Represent UN Women in UN system coordination, collaborating with other UN agencies on resource mobilization and advocacy.
• Support the creation of strategic partnerships and resource mobilization strategies, maintaining relationships with government and stakeholders.
• Advocate for UN Women at various events and meetings, developing public communication strategies.
• Facilitate knowledge management and capacity building, sharing lessons learned and overseeing training activities.
• Manage personnel under supervision, providing guidance and performance feedback.
• Ensure integration of programs and operations, promoting efficient use of resources and compliance with UN Women’s accountability framework.
• Perform other duties as necessary for the efficient functioning of the office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in international development, economics, gender studies, public administration, public policy, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. A project/programme management certification such as PMP®, PRINCE2®, or MSP® is considered an advantage. Candidates should demonstrate excellent programme formulation, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation skills, as well as the ability to develop operational plans and budgets. Strong leadership and analytical skills are essential, along with knowledge of Results Based Management and the UN system.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree in a relevant field such as international development, economics, gender studies, public administration, or public policy is required for this position. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with additional qualifying experience may be accepted. A project/programme management certification is a plus, enhancing the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 7 years of progressively responsible professional experience in development programmes, with a strong focus on gender equality and women's empowerment. Experience should include strategic and managerial leadership at the national or international level, preferably in developing countries. Field-based experience working with multicultural teams is required, along with experience in leading and coaching staff. Proficiency in using office software and web-based management systems is necessary, and familiarity with modern ERP systems is desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in both English and Urdu is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered an asset and may enhance the candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
This position involves managing a team of approximately 50 personnel, including 8 direct reports and over 40 affiliate personnel. The role requires a commitment to UN Women’s values and competencies, including integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct incompatible with its aims, including discrimination and harassment. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. Applicants must ensure that all sections of the application form are completed to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.