Director of Administration

Job Posting Organization:
The Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) is a regional development arm of the United Nations Secretariat, established to promote sustainable and inclusive development and regional connectivity in the Asia-Pacific region. ESCAP supports its member states through policy-oriented research, analysis, and technical assistance to address development priorities and changing needs. The organization operates in multiple countries across the Asia-Pacific region, focusing on enhancing cooperation and integration among its member states.

Job Overview:
The Director of Administration is responsible for leading the Division of Administration at ESCAP, overseeing a wide range of administrative services including procurement, human resources, finance, facilities management, and information technology services. This role requires strategic management of resources to ensure effective delivery of services that align with the UN's mission and operational standards. The incumbent will provide strategic advice to the Executive Secretary, develop and implement administrative strategies, and ensure compliance with UN regulations. The position demands a proactive approach to modernizing administrative processes and enhancing service delivery models, while also fostering inter-agency coordination and collaboration.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Administration will perform a variety of functions including: providing strategic advice on resource management; developing administrative strategies and processes; preparing reports for senior management and UN legislative bodies; managing financial planning and expenditures; supervising and guiding staff; ensuring high-quality outputs; promoting organizational reform policies; and fostering teamwork and communication across divisions. The incumbent will also be responsible for leading initiatives related to business transformation and service automation, ensuring that the Division's operations are efficient and aligned with the UN's goals.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a strong background in administration, with a minimum of 15 years of progressively responsible experience in areas such as financial services, human resources, and real estate management. Experience in leading multi-functional administrative services in a complex environment is essential, along with a deep understanding of UN administrative rules and reform agendas. Proven ability to manage large teams and drive organizational change is critical, as is experience with business transformation and the use of technology to enhance service delivery.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master’s degree or equivalent) in management, business administration, public administration, human resources, finance, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree in these fields combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
The position requires at least 15 years of relevant experience in various administrative roles, including financial services, human resources, and real estate management. Candidates should have experience leading large administrative service platforms and a strong understanding of UN policies and reform initiatives. Experience in business transformation and the use of technology to improve administrative services is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in English is required for this position, as it is one of the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat. Knowledge of another UN official language, such as French, is considered an advantage and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The job does not specify a deadline for applications, nor does it mention contract duration or seniority level. However, it is implied that the position is full-time and may involve international recruitment, given the nature of the organization and its operations across multiple countries.