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, 2018, which aimed to create a dedicated, impartial, and sustainable development-focused coordination function. The UNDS operates globally, with a presence in numerous countries, and is committed to advancing sustainable development goals, particularly the 2030 Agenda. The organization emphasizes collaboration among various UN entities, including specialized and non-resident agencies, to ensure effective support for countries in their development efforts. The UNDS is guided by principles of accountability, inclusivity, and the eradication of poverty in all its forms, striving to leave no one behind in its mission.

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system at the country level, tasked with leading the UN country teams and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The RC is responsible for coordinating UN support to countries in their efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda, advocating for sustainable development, and fostering partnerships with government, civil society, and other stakeholders. This role requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and expertise, as well as the ability to navigate complex political landscapes to address national needs and priorities. The RC is expected to promote the values and principles of the UN Charter, including human rights and gender equality, and to engage in strategic communication to enhance public support for sustainable development initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator has a wide range of responsibilities, including representing the UN at high-level state engagements, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, and coordinating system-wide support to the government. The RC is tasked with identifying risks to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and advocating for the work of UN agencies. Additionally, the RC must engage with diverse partners, promote strategic partnerships, and facilitate knowledge-sharing and collaboration at national and regional levels. The role also involves managing country financing instruments, ensuring security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security for UN personnel, and overseeing the implementation of strategies to prevent sexual exploitation and abuse. The RC is responsible for fostering an enabling environment for collaboration and innovation, leading communication efforts to promote the 2030 Agenda, and managing the Resident Coordinator's Office.

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. In lieu of an advanced degree, a first-level university degree combined with relevant experience may be accepted. The position requires over 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 senior-level inter-agency coordination is essential. Candidates should demonstrate strong political acumen, experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs, and the ability to provide insightful analysis to senior officials.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, or law. Candidates with a first-level university degree and significant relevant experience may also be considered. This educational foundation is crucial for understanding the complexities of international development and the operational frameworks of the United Nations.

Experience:
The position demands over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with a strong emphasis 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 is required, and senior-level inter-agency coordination experience may be considered as a substitute. Additionally, candidates should have experience in managing security operations in complex environments and working with senior government officials and diplomats.

Languages:
For this position, proficiency in English and Spanish is mandatory, with both languages required at UN Level III for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also recognized as a working language of the United Nations, but proficiency in French is not explicitly required for this role. Candidates must demonstrate their language skills according to the UN Language Framework, ensuring effective communication in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for November 2026, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. Candidates must be members of the Resident Coordinator Pool to be eligible for this position. The duration of the assignment is typically five years, subject to change based on the hardship classification of the duty station. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance within its staff and strongly encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is limited to the Resident Coordinator System in this specific duty station, and candidates will be subject to reference checks to verify their qualifications and background. The UN maintains a non-smoking environment and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.