Senior Development Coordination Officer, Head of RCO/Strategic Planner

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System was reformed on January 1, 2019, under the leadership of the UN Secretary-General. This reform aims to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of the UN in achieving the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The UN Resident Coordinator Offices (UN RCO) play a crucial role in supporting countries to meet their development priorities and SDGs. The UN RCO in Eritrea operates under the guidance of the UN Resident Coordinator, who is the highest-ranking UN official in the country, and is responsible for managing the office's resources to support sustainable development analysis, strategic planning, programming, financing, communications, advocacy, and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Development Coordination Officer, Head of RCO/Strategic Planner, is tasked with providing strategic guidance to the UN Resident Coordinator (RC) and the UN Country Team (UNCT) to ensure effective and timely UN support for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. This role involves leading the development and coordination of the Country Analysis (CA) and the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF). The officer will facilitate partnerships and resource mobilization efforts, oversee the implementation of efficiency agendas, manage knowledge and capacity development activities, and ensure adherence to organizational policies. The position requires a strong focus on strategic planning, stakeholder engagement, and the ability to navigate complex development contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Development Coordination Officer will lead the provision of strategic guidance to the RC and UNCT, ensuring effective support for the 2030 Agenda implementation. Responsibilities include facilitating partnerships, coordinating resource mobilization efforts, managing the efficiency agenda, overseeing knowledge management, and ensuring effective substantive coordination support to the RC/UNCT. The officer will also be responsible for developing policy recommendations, leading strategic design initiatives, and ensuring quality control over communications and advocacy activities. Additionally, the officer will manage the RCO's resources, supervise staff, and promote a collaborative work environment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a proven knowledge of sustainable development theories and concepts, with the ability to identify strategic issues and opportunities. Strong analytical skills are required to produce reports and policy recommendations. The candidate should demonstrate professionalism, effective communication skills, client orientation, and the ability to empower others. Building trust and fostering a collaborative environment are essential competencies for this role. The candidate must also have a solid understanding of the UN system and its programs related to the Sustainable Development Goals.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, sustainable development, social sciences, education, or a related field is required. A first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of ten years of progressively responsible experience in strategic planning, sustainable development policy, and program development and management is required. Experience in multi-stakeholder coordination, team leadership, and UN interagency coordination is essential. Desirable experiences include working in complex settings, developing financial solutions, strategic communication, and implementing partnership and resource mobilization strategies.

Languages:
English is required at UN Level II proficiency for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Arabic is desirable at UN Level I proficiency. Candidates should demonstrate effective communication skills in both languages, particularly in a professional context.

Additional Notes:
This position is valid for one year with the possibility of extension, subject to budget availability. The role is expected to adhere to the UN's commitment to gender balance and diversity in the workplace. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The United Nations does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process, and reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities.