Resident Coordinator

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System (UNDS) is a collective of various UN entities that work together to promote sustainable development globally. Established through the General Assembly resolution 72/279 on May 31, 2018, the UNDS aims to enhance the coordination of operational activities for development at the country level. The organization operates in numerous countries, leveraging the expertise and resources of its specialized and non-resident agencies to address national needs and priorities. The UNDS is committed to the principles of leaving no one behind and eradicating poverty in all its forms, aligning its efforts with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system in the country, tasked with leading the UN country teams and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The RC plays a pivotal role in coordinating UN support to countries, fostering partnerships with government, civil society, and other stakeholders to address sustainable development challenges. The position requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and a commitment to promoting peace and sustainable development, with a focus on the 2030 Agenda. The RC is responsible for advocating for the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and ensuring that the UN's efforts are aligned with national priorities, while also managing a dual reporting system with UN country team heads.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator is responsible for representing the UN at the highest levels of government and fostering engagement with various stakeholders, including civil society and the private sector. Key responsibilities include leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, coordinating system-wide support to the government, and promoting the UN's fundamental values and principles. The RC must engage in strategic partnerships, facilitate knowledge-sharing, and ensure effective communication of the UN's efforts to promote the 2030 Agenda. Additionally, the RC oversees country financing instruments, manages security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security coordination, and promotes staff learning and adherence to UN policies. The role also involves integrating humanitarian and development efforts in conflict and post-conflict settings, ensuring that the UN's work contributes to building resilience and sustainable development.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in relevant fields such as development studies, international relations, or social sciences. A first-level university degree with relevant experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree. The position requires over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, including five years in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator or in high-level coordination roles is essential, along with strong political acumen and the ability to provide insightful analysis to senior officials.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in fields related to development, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, or law is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree and relevant experience may also be considered. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of the complexities of sustainable development and international cooperation.

Experience:
Candidates must have over 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, including at least five years of cumulative experience in development, human rights, or humanitarian work at the country level outside of their own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is required, and high-level coordination experience at the country or regional level may be considered in lieu of RC experience. Experience in managing humanitarian programs and working with senior government officials is desirable, as is a background in security decision-making in complex environments.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, and proficiency in French may be considered an asset, although it is not mandatory for this role.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is set for June 2027, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The position is classified as an A duty station, with a duration of assignment of five years, subject to change based on the hardship classification. Eligibility is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and does not charge any fees during the recruitment process. Candidates must adhere to the UN's standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity, and those with a history of violations of international law or misconduct will not be considered.