Resident Coordinator

Resident Coordinator

United Nations Secretariat

April 1, 2026April 9, 2026KigaliRwanda
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations (UN) is an international organization founded in 1945, currently comprising 193 member states. Its mission is to promote peace, security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and cooperation among nations. The UN operates in various sectors, including humanitarian aid, development, and human rights, with a focus on sustainable development goals (SDGs). The UN Development Coordination Office supports the Resident Coordinator system, which ensures effective coordination of UN activities at the country level. The UN aims to leave no one behind and eradicate 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 at the country level. This position is pivotal in leading the UN country teams and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The RC is responsible for coordinating UN support to countries in their efforts to achieve the 2030 Agenda. The role requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and capabilities to foster sustainable development, peace, and collaboration among various stakeholders, including government, civil society, and the private sector. The RC must advocate for the SDGs and ensure that the UN's collective efforts are aligned with national priorities and needs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator is tasked with a wide range of responsibilities, including representing the UN at high levels of government, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, and coordinating system-wide support to the government. The RC must engage with diverse partners to address national needs and sustainable development challenges, promote human rights and gender equality, and foster strategic partnerships. Additionally, the RC is responsible for governance and oversight of country financing instruments, leading communication efforts to promote the 2030 Agenda, and ensuring the security of UN personnel and assets. The RC also plays a crucial role in integrating humanitarian assistance with development programming, particularly in conflict and post-conflict settings.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in fields such as development studies, international relations, political science, 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 senior-level inter-agency coordination is essential. Strong political acumen and experience working with senior government officials and civil society organizations in politically sensitive environments are also required.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree or equivalent postgraduate qualification in relevant fields is required. Candidates with a first-level university degree and a combination of academic qualifications and experience may be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing development studies, international relations, political science, or related disciplines.

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 their own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is required, and senior-level inter-agency coordination experience may be considered in lieu of RC experience. Solid experience in managing multi-sectoral humanitarian programs and operations is desirable, along with strong political acumen and knowledge of regional political dynamics.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is desirable, also at UN Level III proficiency. The ability to communicate effectively in both languages is essential for engaging with diverse stakeholders and fulfilling the responsibilities of the role.

Additional Notes:
The start date for this position is as soon as possible, with a duration of assignment of five years for A duty stations, subject to change based on hardship classification. Eligibility is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool, and female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply. The position is subject to the United Nations' policies on recruitment, including geographical diversity and the necessity of securing high standards of efficiency and integrity. The UN does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
Apply now
Similar Jobs