Director of Administration

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Division of Administration (DA) in the Department of Operational Support (DOS) at the United Nations Headquarters. The Division of Administration is responsible for delivering administrative support functions, managing facilities, and providing commercial services for various offices and departments within the United Nations Secretariat. It also oversees commercial insurance policies and manages payroll and accounts payable tasks. The Division consists of several key components, including the Common Administrative Platform (CAP), Facilities and Commercial Activities Service (FCAS), Commercial and Insurance Section (CIS), and Financial Operations Service (FOS). The Director of Administration reports directly to the Under-Secretary-General (USG) of the Department of Operational Support, ensuring that the Division operates efficiently and effectively across its various functions.

Job Overview:
The Director of Administration plays a crucial role in shaping the strategic vision and policies of the Department of Operational Support. This position requires active participation in various committees, preparation of policy documents, and providing programmatic advice to the USG. The Director is responsible for overseeing the efficient functioning of the Division of Administration, ensuring that all programmed activities are executed effectively. This includes leading innovative change management programs, formulating and implementing work programs, and managing resources to meet deadlines. The Director also coordinates the preparation of reports for legislative bodies and interacts with oversight organizations to ensure compliance with standards. The role demands a high level of professionalism, accountability, and client orientation, as well as the ability to foster teamwork and maintain productive relationships with various stakeholders.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Administration will undertake a wide range of responsibilities, including:

• Contributing to the formulation of the department’s strategic vision and policies.
• Overseeing the management and coordination of the Division of Administration’s activities.
• Providing leadership in developing innovative programs and managing change.
• Formulating and implementing the substantive work program of the Division, determining priorities, and allocating resources.
• Ensuring timely execution of programmed activities and coordinating work within the Division and with other UN entities.
• Preparing reports for legislative bodies and overseeing policy proposals.
• Interacting with oversight bodies on relevant matters.
• Ensuring high standards of output and compliance with mandates.
• Managing administrative tasks, including budget preparation and staff performance evaluations. 1
• Overseeing recruitment and staff management, ensuring geographical and gender balance. 1
• Representing the organization at international meetings and maintaining relations with counterparts in the host country. 1
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the USG.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven managerial and conceptual skills, with expert knowledge in the relevant fields of administration, financial management, and human resources. They should demonstrate the ability to apply UN rules and regulations effectively, show pride in their work, and maintain a high standard of professionalism. The ideal candidate will take ownership of responsibilities, deliver outputs within prescribed standards, and support subordinates while taking personal responsibility for their own shortcomings. A strong client orientation is essential, as is the ability to establish productive partnerships and anticipate client needs. Leadership qualities are crucial, including the ability to empower others, drive change, and ensure gender balance in staffing.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in business or public administration, finance, accounting, law, social sciences, or a related area is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen (15) years of progressively responsible experience in administration, financial management, human resources management, or related fields is required. At least five (5) years of experience in providing technical leadership and managing large, diverse teams in these areas is essential. Experience in leading significant change management initiatives and representing organizations at intergovernmental bodies is desirable. Experience in senior positions within the UN system or similar international organizations is also preferred.

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, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in all language skills. Candidates should refer to the UN Language Framework for specific details on language proficiency requirements.

Additional Notes:
The appointment for this position is for an initial period of one year, and staff members are required to submit a financial disclosure statement upon appointment and annually thereafter. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The recruitment process is conducted without regard to gender identity, sexual orientation, race, or other backgrounds. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities. The United Nations does not charge any fees during the recruitment process, and candidates are advised to follow all application instructions carefully.