Country Representative

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization merges the resources and mandates of four previously distinct parts of the UN system, namely DAW, OSAGI, INSTRAW, and UNIFEM, which focused on gender equality. UN Women operates globally, with a mission to eliminate discrimination against women and girls, empower women, and achieve equality between women and men as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization is involved in various countries, including Zimbabwe, where it collaborates with 25 UN agencies, funds, and programs to support national development priorities. UN Women is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, ensuring that all employment decisions are based on qualifications and competence, regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or other factors.

Job Overview:
The Country Representative for UN Women in Zimbabwe is responsible for leading and managing the Zimbabwe Country Office (CO) portfolio. This role involves translating UN Women's Strategic Plan into development initiatives and results that align with regional and national priorities. The Country Representative will develop, implement, and manage programs and projects, while fostering effective partnerships with government counterparts, UN agencies, civil society organizations, and donors. The position requires a strategic approach to country program planning and development, ensuring that gender equality and women's empowerment are integrated into UN programming processes. The Country Representative will also provide substantive advice to senior management and oversee the quality of results-based programming for the CO. This role is pivotal in advancing gender equality and women's empowerment in Zimbabwe, particularly in the context of the Zimbabwe UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (2022-2026).

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Country Representative will manage the strategic country program planning and development, ensuring alignment with national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Key responsibilities include leading the design and implementation of the Country Strategic Note, managing the Zimbabwe Country Office, overseeing operational goals, and ensuring compliance with UN Women’s regulations. The representative will also serve as a member of the UN Country Team (UNCT), collaborating on programming and advocacy efforts to integrate gender issues into UN processes. Additionally, the role involves representing UN Women in intergovernmental forums, building partnerships with government officials and NGOs, and leading resource mobilization strategies. The Country Representative will oversee knowledge management, innovation, and capacity building within the CO, ensuring the safety and security of personnel and organizational assets. The incumbent will lead a team of 17 to 19 people, including four direct reports, and will be responsible for promoting teamwork and a respectful work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent in development-related disciplines, economics, public policy, or social sciences. 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 an added advantage. The position requires at least 10 years of progressively responsible development experience, including strategic and managerial leadership in development cooperation at the international level. Experience in gender and women's issues programming, particularly within the UN system, is essential. Candidates should have field-based experience working with multicultural teams and a strong understanding of UN systems and processes.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in development-related fields, economics, public policy, or other social sciences. In cases where candidates hold a first-level university degree, they must also have two additional years of qualifying experience to meet the educational requirements. A project/programme management certification is desirable and would enhance a candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible experience in development, with a focus on strategic and managerial leadership in international development cooperation. Candidates should have experience in gender and women's issues programming, preferably within the UN system or similar organizations. Field-based experience working with multicultural teams is essential, as is experience in leading and coaching staff in international settings. Proficiency in using computers and office software, as well as experience with web-based management systems, is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is desirable and would be considered an asset in the selection process.

Additional Notes:
The Country Representative position is a senior-level role that involves full-time commitment and leadership responsibilities. The incumbent will lead a team of 17 to 19 personnel, including direct reports. The role requires a strong commitment to UN Women’s values and competencies, including integrity, professionalism, and respect for diversity. The organization has a zero-tolerance policy regarding misconduct, including sexual exploitation and abuse, and all selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks. The application process requires candidates to complete all sections of the application form to avoid disqualification.