Senior Policy Support Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The Organization for security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) is an intergovernmental organization founded in 1975, with a mission to promote peace, stability, and democracy in Europe. The OSCE operates in 57 participating States across Europe, Central Asia, and North America. The organization employs a diverse workforce of approximately 3,500 staff members and engages in a wide range of activities including conflict prevention, crisis management, and post-conflict rehabilitation. The OSCE's comprehensive approach to security encompasses politico-military, economic, environmental, and human aspects, addressing various security-related concerns such as arms control, human rights, and counter-terrorism.

Job Overview:
The Senior Policy Support Officer position is a pivotal role within the OSCE Secretariat, specifically under the Conflict Prevention Centre (CPC). This position is focused on providing policy advice and support related to the Geneva International Discussions (GID) and other relevant engagements. The incumbent will be responsible for drafting speeches, statements, and background briefings, while also leading a team of Policy Support Officers. The role requires a deep understanding of the OSCE's mandate and the ability to analyze developments in conflict contexts, providing early warning and recommendations for preventive actions. The Senior Policy Support Officer will work closely with the Secretary General and the Chairpersonship, ensuring that policy guidance is effectively implemented and that the OSCE's activities are well-coordinated and impactful.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Senior Policy Support Officer will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including: monitoring and analyzing developments in conflict contexts, focusing on early warning signals of potential crises; providing policy advice and recommendations to the Secretary General and Chairpersonship; drafting and preparing analytical reports, policy options, and background information; leading and managing a Policy Support Officer; facilitating coordination of programs and activities that support confidence-building measures; engaging with partner organizations and presenting OSCE activities; supervising the activities of junior staff and interns; ensuring gender perspectives are integrated into all tasks; and participating in selection panels as needed. The incumbent will also be responsible for managing performance and professional development of team members, ensuring effective task allocation, and maintaining high standards of work.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first-level university degree in political science, public or law" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">international law, international relations, or a related field. A minimum of nine years of progressively responsible professional experience in relevant sectors such as government, international organizations, or NGOs is required. Experience in project management, resource mobilization, and dialogue facilitation is highly desirable. Candidates should demonstrate strong people management skills and have a proven track record in producing political analysis and reporting. Professional fluency in English, including excellent drafting skills, is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of Russian. Knowledge of another OSCE official language or a language spoken in the region is an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a first-level university degree, which can be in fields such as political science, international relations, or law. This foundational education is essential for understanding the complexities of international security and diplomatic relations, which are central to the OSCE's mission. A second-level degree may reduce the required professional experience by two years, indicating that advanced education is valued in this role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least nine years of relevant professional experience, with a minimum of seven years required if they hold a second-level degree. This experience should be progressively responsible, indicating a career trajectory that includes increasing levels of responsibility and complexity in tasks. Work experience in the region where the OSCE operates is considered a distinct asset, as it provides valuable context and understanding of the local dynamics affecting security and cooperation.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, particularly in terms of drafting and communication skills. A working knowledge of Russian is also required, reflecting the linguistic diversity of the OSCE's member states. Additionally, proficiency in another OSCE official language or a language commonly spoken in the region would be advantageous, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with a broader range of stakeholders and contexts.

Additional Notes:
This position is classified as a P4-level role within the UN common system and is open for secondment only, meaning that candidates must be nominated by their respective participating States. The OSCE emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion within its workforce, encouraging applications from qualified candidates of all backgrounds. The contract is fixed-term, with a full-time schedule, and the maximum period of service in this post is limited to 10 years. Candidates should be aware that appointments are subject to medical clearance and that the OSCE does not request payment at any stage of the application process. The OSCE retains the discretion to re-advertise the vacancy or modify the job description as necessary.