Resident Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System (UNDS) is a collective of various UN entities that work together to promote sustainable development and address global challenges. Established to enhance coordination among UN agencies, the UNDS aims to ensure that development efforts are aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The organization operates in numerous countries worldwide, focusing on the eradication of poverty and the promotion of peace, human rights, and gender equality. The UNDS is committed to leaving no one behind and works collaboratively with governments, civil society, and other stakeholders to achieve sustainable development goals (SDGs).

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system at the country level, responsible for leading the UN country team and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The RC plays a pivotal role in coordinating UN support to countries in their efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda. This position requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and expertise, as well as the ability to engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the private sector. The RC is expected to foster partnerships, advocate for sustainable development, and promote the values and principles of the UN Charter, including human rights and gender equality. The role also involves managing security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and overseeing the Resident Coordinator's Office, ensuring effective collaboration and communication within the UN system and with external partners.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator is tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including representing the UN at high-level state functions, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, and coordinating system-wide support to the government. The RC is responsible for conducting context and trend analysis, promoting UN values, and engaging with diverse stakeholders to advance the 2030 Agenda. Additionally, the RC must manage funding for joint UN efforts, facilitate knowledge sharing, and ensure effective communication of UN initiatives. The role also includes overseeing security measures for UN personnel and assets, promoting staff learning and adherence to UN policies, and managing a dual reporting system with UN country team heads. In humanitarian contexts, the RC coordinates response efforts and integrates development work with peacekeeping missions when necessary.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, or law. A first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, including five years in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator or in senior-level inter-agency coordination is essential. Candidates should demonstrate excellent political judgment, strong diplomatic skills, and the ability to engage with various stakeholders in politically sensitive environments.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in relevant fields is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing development studies, international relations, or related disciplines.

Experience:
Candidates must have over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with at least five years of cumulative experience in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level outside their home country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is required, and senior-level inter-agency coordination experience may be considered in lieu of RC experience. Experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs and operations is desirable, as is a background in security decision-making in complex environments.

Languages:
English and Portuguese are mandatory for this position, with English required at UN Level III proficiency and Portuguese also required at the same level. Knowledge of French is beneficial but not mandatory. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in both English and Portuguese according to the UN Language Framework.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for May 2026, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The duration of the assignment is typically five years, subject to change based on the hardship classification of the duty station. Eligibility is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is classified as an A duty station, indicating relatively favorable working and living conditions. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and diversity in its workforce and adheres to strict ethical standards in its recruitment process.