Resident Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System (UNDS) was established to enhance the coordination of the UN's operational activities for development at the country level. This system was formalized through the General Assembly resolution 72/279 on May 31, 201

• The UNDS aims to ensure that all UN entities work together effectively to support countries in achieving sustainable development goals, particularly the 2030 Agenda. The Resident Coordinator (RC) is the highest-ranking representative of the UNDS in a country, responsible for leading the UN country teams and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Cooperation Framework. The UNDS operates in numerous countries worldwide, with a focus on sustainable development and poverty eradication as its primary objectives.

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator plays a pivotal role in representing the United Nations at the highest levels of government and fostering collaboration with various stakeholders, including civil society, academia, and the private sector. This position requires the RC to lead the UN country team in developing, monitoring, and reporting on the UN Cooperation Framework, ensuring that it aligns with national priorities and sustainable development challenges. The RC is responsible for coordinating UN system-wide support to the government, advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and promoting the fundamental values of the UN Charter, including human rights and gender equality. The role also involves engaging with diverse partners to advance the 2030 Agenda and ensuring that the UN's efforts are coherent and impactful at the country level.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator's responsibilities include representing the UN at high-level state functions, leading the UN country team in the development and implementation of the UN Cooperation Framework, coordinating support to the government, and fostering strategic partnerships. The RC is tasked with conducting context and trend analysis, promoting UN values, engaging with various stakeholders, and facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Additionally, the RC oversees country financing instruments, leads communication efforts to promote the 2030 Agenda, ensures security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security coordination, and manages the Resident Coordinator's Office. The RC also plays a crucial role in integrating humanitarian efforts with development programming, particularly in conflict and post-conflict settings, and is responsible for promoting staff learning and adherence to UN policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or an equivalent postgraduate qualification in fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, or law. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted. The position requires a minimum of 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, including at least five years in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator or in security decision-making roles is desirable, along with strong diplomatic skills and the ability to engage with various stakeholders effectively.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, or closely related areas. Candidates with a first-level university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. This educational foundation is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and the UN's role in promoting sustainable development.

Experience:
The position demands a minimum of 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with a focus on development, human rights, and humanitarian work. Candidates should have at least five years of cumulative experience in these areas at the country level, outside of their home country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator or in a senior security role is highly desirable, as is experience in managing humanitarian programs and disaster response. Strong analytical skills and the ability to engage with diverse stakeholders are also crucial for success in this role.

Languages:
English is the mandatory working language for this position, with a required proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French is considered an asset, although not mandatory for this position. Candidates should demonstrate strong communication skills in English to effectively engage with various stakeholders and represent the UN.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for September 2026, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The assignment duration for B duty stations, such as Lusaka, is typically four years, although this may change based on the hardship classification of the duty station. Eligibility for this position is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply to promote gender balance within the UN. The United Nations is committed to maintaining high standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its staff, and candidates with a history of violations of international law or misconduct will not be considered for employment. The UN also emphasizes the importance of recruiting staff from a wide geographical basis and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.