Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), which was established to promote economic and social development in African countries. The ECA aims to foster regional integration and promote sustainable development through research, policy analysis, and capacity building. The organization operates in multiple countries across Africa and employs a diverse workforce dedicated to addressing the continent's challenges and opportunities. The ECA collaborates with various stakeholders, including member states, regional organizations, and international partners, to enhance the effectiveness of development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant to the Executive Secretary plays a crucial role in providing high-level strategic support during a significant period of institutional engagement and policy dialogue. This position is designed to enhance the Executive Secretary's capacity to fulfill her leadership and advocacy responsibilities effectively. The Special Assistant will be responsible for delivering high-quality analytical input, ensuring timely coordination across divisions, and maintaining the strategic integrity of the Executive Secretary's engagements and communications. The role involves direct policy advisory support, meticulous meeting preparation, and agile management of correspondence and stakeholder relations. The ultimate goal is to ensure that the Executive Office is operationally responsive, substantively informed, and strategically aligned with the ECA's mandate and the priorities of the UN development system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Special Assistant will have a range of responsibilities, including: preparing policy notes, statements, and strategic proposals on major development issues; advising the Executive Secretary on program and policy matters; monitoring emerging development issues; overseeing correspondence flow; ensuring effective meeting preparations and follow-ups; assisting in coordinating substantive preparations for discussions at various UN bodies; serving as a liaison with officials at all levels; leading team efforts to collect and analyze data; and performing other duties in support of senior management processes. This role requires a proactive approach to ensure that the Executive Secretary is well-supported in her engagements and that the ECA's voice is coherent and influential across platforms.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in social development, economics, political science, public administration, communications, international relations, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered an advantage. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in international relations, socioeconomic research, policy formulation, and program management, with a focus on economic, social, and sustainable development.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as social development, economics, political science, public administration, communications, or international relations. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by additional qualifying work experience. Completion of programs in data analytics or related fields is advantageous, indicating a strong foundation in analytical skills necessary for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least ten years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as international relations, socioeconomic research, policy formulation, and program management. Experience in economic, social, and sustainable development at both international and national levels is essential. Familiarity with the governance and intergovernmental processes of the UN system or similar organizations is desirable, as is experience supporting senior officials in diplomatic settings. Experience in data analytics or related fields is also considered beneficial.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of French is desirable, and proficiency in another official United Nations language is considered an advantage. This linguistic capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration within the UN system and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of six months. The job does not specify additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring that applicants are not required to provide any financial information or pay any fees related to their application.