Resident Coordinator

Resident Coordinator

United Nations Secretariat

April 1, 2026April 9, 2026MbabaneEswatini
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, and has a presence in numerous countries worldwide. The organization is committed to achieving sustainable development goals and addressing global challenges through collaborative efforts.

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the United Nations 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 for Sustainable Development. The role requires a deep understanding of the UN's assets and a commitment to sustainable development, with a focus on leaving no one behind and eradicating poverty in all its forms. The RC must engage with various stakeholders, including government officials, civil society, and the private sector, to address national needs and sustainable development challenges effectively.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator has 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 is tasked with fostering strategic partnerships, promoting human rights and gender equality, and ensuring effective communication of UN efforts. Additionally, the RC manages funding for joint UN initiatives, oversees security coordination, and promotes staff learning and adherence to UN policies. The role also involves integrating humanitarian assistance with development programming, particularly in conflict and post-conflict settings, and ensuring that the UN's work aligns with national development priorities.

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 may be accepted in lieu of an advanced degree if accompanied by relevant experience. The position requires a minimum of 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 is desirable, along with strong political acumen and the ability to provide insightful political analysis.

Educational Background:
A Master's degree in development studies, international relations, political science, economics, social sciences, human rights, law, or closely related fields is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree with relevant experience may be accepted. The educational background should reflect a strong understanding of international development and governance.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with a focus on development, human rights, or humanitarian work. Experience in managing or coordinating humanitarian programs at the country level is preferred. The role requires strong political acumen and experience working with senior government officials in politically sensitive environments. Previous experience in security decision-making is also desirable.

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 UN, and proficiency in French is considered an asset but not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position is classified as an A duty station, with a duration of assignment of five years. The start date is set for April 2027, unless the incumbent is reassigned earlier. Eligibility for this position is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool. The UN is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is specific to the Resident Coordinator System in this duty station, and candidates must adhere to the UN's policies on recruitment and employment.
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