Chief of Mission (D)

Chief of Mission (D)

International Organization For Migration (IOM)

January 15, 2026March 1, 2026Mexico CityMexico
Job Description
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 more than 20,000 employees and operates in over 580 locations worldwide, emphasizing a workplace culture that fosters professional growth and harnesses 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 Mexico City. This role involves strategic country program development and planning, ensuring that IOM's overall mandate and strategy are promoted and implemented effectively. The CoM will engage in policy discussions, advise on national policy and migration trends, and advocate for the development of appropriate migration management policies. The position requires a strong focus on resource mobilization, ensuring the appropriateness and effectiveness of programs in line with IOM’s Strategic Vision and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The CoM will also be responsible for direct oversight of project design and implementation, ensuring high-quality performance of migration-related projects, and actively participating in UN inter-agency engagement.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Chief of Mission will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including:
  • Directing and monitoring project design and implementation, ensuring successful execution of operational programs.
  • Supervising the implementation of migration-related projects and supporting regional and international processes on migration.
  • Participating actively in UN Country Team (UNCT) meetings and ensuring integration of migration-related issues in the CCA and UNSDCF processes.
  • Engaging with governmental authorities and diplomatic missions to identify migration-related areas for collaboration.
  • Managing operational, human resources, administrative, budgetary, and financial activities of the Country Office.
  • Facilitating knowledge generation and management, ensuring best practices are identified and lessons learned are incorporated into future planning.
  • Representing IOM at national and international conferences and events, promoting IOM's image and programs.
  • 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.

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 institution, along with ten years of relevant professional experience. Alternatively, a University degree in the aforementioned fields with twelve years of relevant professional experience is acceptable. Significant experience in general management, project and resource management, diplomacy, fundraising, and public relations is essential. Candidates should also have experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings related to migration programming.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in relevant fields such as Political or Social Science, International Relations, or Business Administration. A University degree in these fields is also acceptable if accompanied by additional years of relevant professional experience. The educational qualifications should be from an accredited academic institution, ensuring that candidates have a solid theoretical foundation to support their practical experience.

Experience:
The position requires significant experience in general management, project management, and resource management. Candidates should have a proven track record in diplomacy, fundraising, and public relations, as well as experience liaising with governmental and diplomatic authorities and international institutions. Experience in delivering large and diverse programs in complex settings, particularly in migration programming, is crucial, including both emergency and development contexts.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position, both oral and written. Additionally, a working knowledge of another official UN language (Arabic, Chinese, French, or Russian) 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:
The contract type for this position is fixed-term for one year, with the possibility of extension. The role is classified at the P-5 grade level, and candidates must be mobile as part of the internationally recruited professional staff. The appointment is subject to medical fitness certification, accreditation, residency or visa requirements, and security clearances. IOM has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with the aims and objectives of the United Nations and IOM, including sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and discrimination. Candidates should be aware that IOM does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and only accepts applications submitted through the IOM e-Recruitment system.
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