Consultant for Vision and Strategy Development

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA) was established to foster comprehensive, equitable, integrated, and sustainable development through effective economic and social cooperation in the region. It assists its 21 Arab Member States in introducing policy reform and enhancing capacities to address inequalities. ESCWA serves as a regional forum and consensus builder on development issues, providing analysis, research, and evidence-based policy alternatives, as well as advisory services to facilitate the formulation, adoption, and implementation of development policies. The organization is committed to improving the lives of people in the region by addressing social and economic challenges through collaboration and strategic initiatives.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in developing a comprehensive Vision and Strategy for ESCWA, aligning with the UN Department of Operational Support's Strategic Planning Guide. This initiative aims to create a unified message that articulates the change ESCWA intends to contribute to, the necessity of this change, and the envisioned pathway for achieving it. The consultant will be responsible for preparing a draft Vision and Strategy Map, conducting focus group discussions and interviews with key stakeholders, designing a two-day Strategic Planning Retreat agenda, and facilitating the retreat. The ultimate goal is to ensure ESCWA delivers coherent, anticipatory, and transformative support to its member states, enhancing its performance and visibility while empowering its staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's primary responsibilities include:

• Preparing a draft Vision and Strategy Map that encompasses Client Outcomes, Services, Processes, People/Knowledge, and Finance, adhering to the DOS Strategic Planning Guidance.
• Conducting focus group discussions with selected Project Coordinators and interviews with Cluster Leaders to gather insights on their experiences and expectations for the Vision and Strategy.
• Designing a concept note and agenda for a two-day Strategic Planning Retreat with Senior Management, scheduled for January 202
• Facilitating the Strategic Planning Retreat, ensuring effective engagement and synthesis of discussions.
• Proposing a comprehensive vision and strategy map based on the outcomes of the retreat, including strategic focus areas that align with ESCWA's goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in social sciences, development studies, management, international relations, economics, or a related field. All applicants are required to submit a copy of their educational degree, as incomplete applications will not be reviewed. Previous experience in facilitating leadership retreats is essential, along with a minimum of five years of experience in strategic planning, development work, organizational strategy, institutional reform, or change management. A strong understanding of the UN system architecture and its various entities is required, as well as excellent analytical and strategic thinking skills. Candidates should have experience in developing organizational strategies and be proficient in using strategic planning tools such as Results-Based Management (RBM), strategy maps, and theories of change. Exceptional drafting skills are necessary to convey complex messages clearly and concisely.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as social sciences, development studies, management, international relations, or economics is required for this position. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of the role and the strategic planning processes involved.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant experience in areas such as strategic planning, development work, organizational strategy, institutional reform, or change management. Candidates should have a proven track record of facilitating leadership retreats and developing organizational strategies, demonstrating their capability to navigate complex environments and drive strategic initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, with a requirement for proficiency in all four areas: speaking, reading, writing, and understanding. Knowledge of French is beneficial, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Additionally, Arabic is a working language of ESCWA, and while fluency in Arabic is not explicitly required, it may be advantageous for effective communication within the organization.

Additional Notes:
The position is remote and is expected to last for a duration of two months. There are no additional notes regarding contract duration, seniority level, or compensation provided in the job description. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, ensuring a transparent and equitable hiring process.