Executive Secretary

Executive Secretary

United Nations Secretariat

February 19, 2026March 30, 2026New YorkUnited States
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the United Nations, an international organization founded in 1945, with a mission to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among countries. The UN has a diverse workforce of over 44,000 employees and operates in multiple countries around the globe, addressing various global challenges including human rights, humanitarian aid, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Executive Secretary (ES) is responsible for managing the Secretariat for the United Nations Board of Auditors and the Panel of External Auditors. This role involves overseeing the smooth operation of the Board and Panel, engaging with high-level stakeholders, and ensuring the production and publication of approximately 27-30 reports annually. The ES plays a crucial role in facilitating communication between auditors and client mechanisms, managing staff and budget issues, and ensuring compliance with audit policies and procedures. The position requires a strong understanding of intergovernmental processes and the ability to navigate complex organizational structures within the UN system.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will plan and organize sessions for the Board and Panel of External Auditors, including preparing agendas and working papers, and ensuring the Board's approval of reports. The ES will engage with multiple stakeholders, manage the publishing and translation of reports, and provide administrative support to various committees. Responsibilities also include maintaining records, preparing budget proposals, leading data analysis efforts, and advising on audit policies and practices. The ES will ensure effective communication and coordination among various UN entities and assist in the preparation of periodic reports on audit-related matters.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven abilities in advisory and monitoring functions, with a strong understanding of financial regulations and administrative procedures. The role requires a client-focused approach to problem-solving, sound judgment, and the ability to develop innovative solutions. The ES should demonstrate professionalism, efficiency, and a commitment to achieving results while maintaining high standards of integrity and competence.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in auditing, accounting, international relations, public administration, policy management, communications, business, or a related discipline is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree (Bachelor's degree or equivalent) combined with two additional years of relevant work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in auditing, accounting, intergovernmental affairs, or a related area is required. Candidates should have experience in multi-stakeholder coordination at senior levels within the UN or similar international organizations, as well as experience in implementing audit policies or advising audit committees. Supervisory experience is also required, along with a background in major public sector organizations or within the UN system being desirable.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the UN, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The appointment is subject to the availability of the post or funds, and candidates must adhere to the UN's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position may involve a probationary period and requires staff members to submit a financial disclosure statement. The UN does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are advised to follow all application instructions carefully.
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