Chief of Mission (D)

Job Posting Organization:
The International Organization for Migration (IOM) was established in 1951 and is a Related Organization of the United Nations. It is the leading UN agency in the field of migration, working closely with governmental, intergovernmental, and non-governmental partners. IOM is dedicated to promoting humane and orderly migration for the benefit of all, providing services and advice to governments and migrants. The organization has a staffing complement of over 20,000 employees and operates in more than 580 locations worldwide. IOM is committed to fostering a workplace culture where all employees can thrive professionally while harnessing the full potential of migration.

Job Overview:
The Chief of Mission (CoM) will be responsible for overseeing and providing policy, administrative, programmatic, and financial support to the Country Office (CO) in Islamabad. This role involves strategic country program development and planning, ensuring that IOM's policies are reflected in national priority settings, and supporting regional and international processes and dialogues on migration. The CoM will lead the development of effective programs in line with IOM’s Strategic Vision and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The position requires a strong focus on resource mobilization, project development, and ensuring the accuracy of results reporting. The CoM will also advocate for appropriate policies and strategies on migration management and ensure that risks to the Country Office’s objectives are regularly assessed and managed.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Mission will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including: directing IOM's overall mandate and strategy at the country level; overseeing project planning, design, and implementation; evaluating operational activities and preparing recommendations for effectiveness; supervising the implementation of migration-related projects; participating actively within the UN Country Team (UNCT); managing operational, human resources, administrative, budgetary, and financial activities; facilitating knowledge generation and management; developing partnerships with governmental authorities and international organizations; ensuring safety and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security management of IOM personnel and facilities; and leading the PSEA/SH Strategy at the country level. The CoM will also represent IOM at national and international conferences and events, ensuring that IOM’s obligations within the humanitarian cluster system are met.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in Political or Social Science, International Relations, Business Administration, or a related field from an accredited academic institution. Additionally, candidates should have at least fifteen years of relevant professional experience, including extensive experience in general management, project and resource management, diplomacy, and fundraising. Significant experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings related to migration programming is also required. Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, are essential, along with strong liaison and negotiation skills, and in-depth knowledge of migration-related subject areas.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in a relevant field such as Political or Social Science, International Relations, or Business Administration from an accredited institution. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of migration and the operational frameworks within which IOM operates.

Experience:
Candidates should have extensive experience in general management, project management, and resource management. They must also have a proven track record in diplomacy and fundraising, as well as experience liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities and international institutions. Significant experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings, particularly in migration programming, is essential, both in emergency and development contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, both oral and written. A working knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) is considered an advantage. Proficiency in the required languages will be evaluated during the selection process, which may include written and/or oral assessments.

Additional Notes:
This position is a fixed-term contract for one year with the possibility of extension. The role is classified at the D-1 grade level and is considered a director vacancy. The recruitment process is open to both internal and external candidates, with a particular emphasis on qualified female candidates and applicants from non-represented member countries of IOM. The closing date for applications is 26 January 2026, and candidates must ensure that their applications are submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy on conduct that is incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination.