Event Management Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is a specialized agency of the United Nations established to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities. It serves as the focal point for all urbanization and human settlement matters within the UN system. UN-Habitat collaborates with various partners to build inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities. The organization aims to leverage urbanization as a transformative force to reduce inequality, discrimination, and poverty, thereby enhancing the quality of life for all individuals. UN-Habitat operates globally, working in numerous countries to address urban challenges and promote sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Event Management Officer will be situated within the External Relations, Strategy, Knowledge and Innovation Division (ERSKI) of UN-Habitat in Nairobi. This role is pivotal in leading the strategy, planning, development, and implementation of large-scale, complex events that may include global promotional initiatives and public information programs. The incumbent will work collaboratively with various departments, funds, and agencies to ensure that outreach messages and themes are integrated into all relevant events and products. The officer will be responsible for identifying resources, seeking funding, and providing expert advice on public affairs issues. Additionally, the role involves developing strategic partnerships with key constituencies to enhance the impact of planning objectives and managing the overall events program, including the production of outreach materials and the evaluation of event outcomes. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to represent the organization at various meetings and conferences, advocating for UN activities and issues of concern.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Event Management Officer will undertake a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including but not limited to: leading the planning and execution of major events, identifying and securing resources and funding, advising senior management on public affairs issues, developing strategic partnerships, preparing diverse event management products, drafting and editing outreach materials, evaluating event outcomes, representing UN-Habitat at conferences, organizing seminars and public events, managing the events program, and overseeing the maintenance of publicly accessible information materials. The officer will also be involved in the day-to-day operations of the unit, coordinating substantive and administrative activities, interpreting policies, improving digital reporting systems, preparing budget submissions, and mentoring junior officers. Furthermore, the role includes data collection and analysis to identify trends and support data-driven decision-making.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in public information, international relations, external communications, and outreach. They should have substantial experience in conceptualizing, designing, managing, and implementing major international events, as well as experience working with intergovernmental bodies. Proficiency in managing digital systems for events and outreach is essential, along with experience in leading multicultural teams and handling sensitive information. Desirable qualifications include experience in engaging with partners and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in international relations, business administration, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted. Successful completion of degree and non-degree programs in data analytics, business analytics, or data science is considered desirable.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience, specifically in public information, international relations, and external communications. Candidates should have a proven track record in managing major international events and experience working with intergovernmental organizations. Leadership experience in a multicultural and multidisciplinary team setting is also necessary, along with familiarity in managing digital systems related to events and outreach.

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 is considered an asset but not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, with the possibility of extension. Staff members are expected to adhere to the authority of the Secretary-General and may be assigned to various functions throughout their careers. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusivity in its workforce, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and candidates are urged to ensure their application is complete and accurate.