Executive Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and emphasizes equity, ensuring that all children have the opportunity to survive, develop, and reach their full potential. UNICEF's work is guided by the Convention on the Rights of the Child, and it focuses on addressing the needs of the most disadvantaged and excluded children and families. The Latin America and Caribbean Regional Office is tasked with providing strategic direction and mobilizing partnerships to advocate for child rights across the region, which is recognized for its innovative approaches and contributions to global practices. UNICEF employs a diverse workforce and offers opportunities for professional and personal development, along with an attractive compensation and benefits package.

Job Overview:
The Executive Specialist plays a vital role in supporting the Regional Director of UNICEF's Latin America and Caribbean Regional Office. This position involves managing and coordinating activities to ensure that the Regional Director can focus on strategic leadership and high-level engagements. The Executive Specialist is responsible for implementing and following up on key strategic priorities, managing incoming information, and ensuring effective communication within the office. The role requires a systematic and organized approach to planning activities, as well as the ability to analyze information and summarize key points for the Regional Director. The incumbent will also assist in preparing statements and correspondence that represent UNICEF's policies and concerns, thereby contributing to raising the profile of UNICEF within the broader UN system. This position is crucial for maintaining coherence, quality, and continuity across all internal and external interactions, ultimately enhancing UNICEF's influence and visibility regarding children's issues in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Executive Specialist's duties include following up on instructions from the Regional Director, keeping the Director informed about developments in UNICEF's operations and policy issues, coordinating drafts of position papers, assisting in the preparation of statements, proposing and drafting correspondence, managing the flow of information to the Regional Director, and identifying priority matters that require urgent attention. The incumbent will confer with section heads to secure timely information, ensure the Regional Director is prepared for meetings by drafting talking points and researching relevant information, and accompany the Director to meetings to take notes and ensure follow-up. Additionally, the Executive Specialist will support the Regional Director's relations with the Regional Management Team and assist in routine communication and meeting preparations.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in International Relations, Political Science, Public Administration, or a relevant technical field. A minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience in external relations, public affairs, or international development cooperation is required, preferably within the UN or in a government institution or NGO. Experience in coordination, planning, or working in an executive office is considered an asset. Candidates should demonstrate skills in identifying new opportunities, diplomatic communication, negotiation, strategy formulation, drafting, and editing, as well as possess excellent communication skills and high standards of integrity and confidentiality.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree is required in a relevant field such as International Relations, Political Science, or Public Administration. This educational background is essential for understanding the complexities of international development and the operational frameworks within which UNICEF operates.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of five years of relevant professional work experience. This experience should ideally be in external relations, public affairs, or international development cooperation, with a preference for candidates who have worked within the UN system or in government institutions or NGOs. Prior experience in coordination, planning, or executive office roles will be advantageous.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Spanish is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN language or the local language of the duty station is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to communicate effectively in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in Panama City. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workforce and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of gender, nationality, or background. The organization offers a range of benefits, including paid parental leave and reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities. Candidates should be aware that UNICEF has a zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct incompatible with its aims and objectives, including discrimination and abuse. All selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks, and appointments are subject to medical clearance and visa requirements.