Resident Coordinator

Resident Coordinator

United Nations Secretariat

April 2, 2026April 9, 2026ManamaBahrain
Job Description
Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Development System (UNDS) was established to enhance the coordination of the UN's operational activities for development at the country level. The UNDS aims to ensure that all organizations within the UN system work together effectively to support countries in achieving sustainable development goals, particularly the 2030 Agenda. The Resident Coordinator system is a key component of this effort, providing leadership and coordination among various UN entities. The UNDS operates globally, with a presence in numerous countries, and is committed to promoting peace, human rights, and sustainable development.

Job Overview:
The Resident Coordinator (RC) serves as the highest-ranking representative of the UN development system in the country, responsible for leading the UN country team and ensuring accountability for the implementation of the UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework. The RC plays a crucial role in coordinating UN support to countries, advocating for sustainable development, and fostering partnerships with government, civil society, and other stakeholders. The position requires a deep understanding of the UN's mission and the ability to navigate complex political landscapes to advance the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The RC is expected to engage with various partners to address national needs and priorities, promote human rights, and ensure that no one is left behind in the pursuit of sustainable development.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Resident Coordinator's responsibilities include representing the UN at high levels of government, leading the UN country team in developing and monitoring the UN Cooperation Framework, coordinating system-wide support to the government, and advocating for the SDGs. The RC is also responsible for conducting context and trend analysis, promoting UN values, engaging with diverse partners, and facilitating knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Additionally, the RC oversees country financing instruments, leads communication efforts to promote the 2030 Agenda, ensures security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security coordination, and manages the Resident Coordinator's Office. The RC must also address issues related to sexual exploitation and abuse, promote staff learning, and ensure compliance with UN policies and standards.

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 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 work in politically sensitive contexts. Candidates should demonstrate the ability to provide insightful political analysis and have knowledge of Gulf and regional political dynamics.

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 also be considered. The educational background should align with the responsibilities of the position, emphasizing development studies, international relations, political science, or related disciplines.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 15 years of substantive experience in leadership roles at the international level, with at least five years of cumulative experience in development, human rights, rule of law, peace-building, or humanitarian work at the country level outside of one's own country. Previous experience as a Resident Coordinator is highly desirable, as is experience in managing humanitarian programs and working with senior government officials in politically sensitive contexts. Candidates should have a demonstrated ability to analyze political developments and emerging issues related to peace and security.

Languages:
English is required for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Arabic is considered 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 April 2027, unless the incumbent is reassigned before that date. The duration of the assignment is typically five years, subject to change based on the hardship classification of the duty station. Eligibility for this position is limited to candidates who are members of the Resident Coordinator Pool. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The appointment is limited to the Resident Coordinator System in this specific duty station, and applicants must adhere to the UN's policies regarding nationality and eligibility for employment.
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