Consultant for World Urban Forum Coordination

Job Posting Organization:
The United Nations Human Settlements Programme (UN-Habitat) is an agency established by the UN General Assembly to promote sustainable urbanization and human settlements. It operates globally, focusing on providing adequate shelter for all and ensuring that urbanization is socially and environmentally sustainable. The organization has a significant presence in various countries and engages with multiple stakeholders, including governments, civil society, and the private sector, to achieve its mission.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in strengthening partnerships and enhancing stakeholder engagement in the context of the World Urban Forum (WUF). This position involves supporting the continuity between WUF13 and WUF14, which are significant global events focused on sustainable urban development. The consultant will work closely with the UN-Habitat New York Liaison Office and the WUF Secretariat to implement advocacy activities, coordinate with various stakeholders, and contribute to intergovernmental processes. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying strategic opportunities for advocacy and visibility of WUF outcomes, as well as conducting policy research and thematic analysis relevant to urban development issues.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties include preparing and implementing work plans for WUF promotional activities, coordinating with UN entities and partner organizations, reviewing and analyzing UN resolutions and policy documents, identifying strategic issues to enhance WUF visibility, preparing briefing materials and strategic recommendations, organizing consultations and events, conducting policy research on urban development issues, maintaining stakeholder engagement records, providing administrative support to the New York Liaison Office, and guiding interns and junior consultants. The consultant will also perform any other related tasks necessary for the successful organization and promotion of WUF-related activities.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master’s or equivalent) in urban planning, architecture, business administration, management, economics, international relations, development, or a related field. A first-level university degree combined with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. Additionally, candidates should have a minimum of two years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area, with desirable experience in planning and organizing global events and forums, as well as urban development policy and planning.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree in relevant fields such as urban planning, architecture, business administration, management, economics, international relations, or development. A first-level university degree may be accepted if accompanied by relevant experience, indicating that candidates should have a strong academic foundation in areas pertinent to urban development and management.

Experience:
The position requires at least two years of progressively responsible experience in project or programme management, administration, or a related area. Candidates with experience in planning, organizing, or supporting global events and forums will be preferred. Additionally, experience in urban development policy, planning, and design projects is desirable, indicating that the role demands a solid background in managing complex projects and engaging with various stakeholders.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another UN official language is considered an advantage, which suggests that while English is the primary language of communication, additional language skills can enhance a candidate's profile and effectiveness in a multicultural environment.

Additional Notes:
The position is expected to last for a duration of six months. It is important to note that the United Nations does not charge any fees at any stage of the recruitment process, including application, interview, or training. This emphasizes the organization's commitment to transparency and integrity in its hiring practices.