Director of the Division of Strategic Planning and Intersectorality

Job Posting Organization:
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, was established in 1945 with the mission to contribute to peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security by promoting international collaboration through educational, scientific, and cultural reforms. With a workforce of over 2,000 employees, UNESCO operates in more than 190 countries, focusing on building peace in the minds of men and women. The organization aims to foster sustainable development through education, the sciences, culture, communication, and information.

Job Overview:
The position of Director of the Division of Strategic Planning and Intersectorality (DSI) at UNESCO is pivotal in leading the organization's strategic planning and programming efforts. The DSI is tasked with promoting innovative approaches through strategic foresight and idea laboratories, enhancing UNESCO's capacity for impact monitoring and reporting, and refining programming tools and standards. The Director will work closely with various stakeholders, including Assistant Directors-General and Heads of Field Offices, to ensure that UNESCO's programmatic work aligns with its Medium-Term Strategies and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The role requires a strategic mindset to improve collaboration across sectors, advance country and regional strategies, and streamline project cycles, ultimately making UNESCO more agile and responsive to diverse contexts.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will oversee the management of the Division, ensuring effective coordination of strategic planning and program monitoring. Responsibilities include: coordinating the development and implementation of the Organization's overall strategy and program results framework; leading the application of results-based management principles; establishing quality control mechanisms for project implementation; promoting programmatic coherence and alignment with corporate strategic priorities; contributing to reports for the Governing Bodies; providing strategic advice for joint UN programming processes; participating in the Senior Management Team; and ensuring sound financial and team management in accordance with UNESCO standards.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in Public or Business Administration, International Affairs, or a related field. A minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in strategic planning, program development, and management is required, including substantial assignments of a regional or international nature. Candidates should have demonstrated experience in reform initiatives, change management leadership, and complex negotiations, as well as the ability to guide and motivate teams in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in a relevant field such as Public or Business Administration, International Affairs, or a related discipline is essential for this position. This educational background provides the necessary theoretical foundation and practical skills required for effective leadership and management within UNESCO's strategic planning framework.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least 15 years of progressively responsible professional experience in areas such as strategic planning, program development, management, and evaluation. This experience should include substantial assignments at regional or international levels, with a focus on international cooperation. Proven leadership in reform initiatives and change management, as well as experience in representing organizations at the international level, are critical for success in this role.

Languages:
Excellent knowledge and drafting skills in one of the working languages of the Organization (English or French) are mandatory. A working knowledge of the second language (English or French) is desirable, along with knowledge of other official languages of UNESCO, such as Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, which would be considered an asset.

Additional Notes:
The position is a fixed-term contract for a duration of 2 years, with the possibility of renewal. The role is open to both internal and external candidates. UNESCO emphasizes the importance of diversity and encourages applications from candidates of various backgrounds, including those from under-represented Member States, minority groups, indigenous groups, and persons with disabilities. The organization offers a competitive salary, starting at approximately US$ 184,832, along with benefits such as annual leave, family allowance, medical insurance, and a pension plan. Candidates must complete an online application by the specified deadline, and the selection process may include interviews, assessments, and reference checks.