Director of Administration

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located in the Division of Administration (DA) within the Department of Operational Support (DOS) at the United Nations Headquarters in New York. 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, accounts payable, and tax unit tasks. The Division consists of several services, 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, and the organization aims to maintain high standards of efficiency, competence, and integrity in its operations, while promoting gender balance and geographical diversity among its staff.

Job Overview:
The Director of Administration plays a crucial role in the strategic vision and policy formulation of the Department of Operational Support. This position requires 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 activities are carried out effectively and in a timely manner. The role involves leadership in developing innovative programs and managing change within the Division. The Director will also coordinate the preparation of reports for legislative bodies and interact with oversight organizations to ensure compliance with standards. The position demands a high level of professionalism, accountability, and client orientation, as well as the ability to foster teamwork and communication among staff.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Director of Administration will be responsible for a wide range of duties, including:

• Contributing to the formulation of the department's strategic vision and policies.
• Overseeing the management and coordination of the Division's activities to ensure efficiency.
• Leading the development of innovative programs and change management initiatives.
• Formulating and implementing the substantive work program of the Division, determining priorities, and allocating resources.
• Coordinating the preparation of reports for legislative bodies and policy proposals for intergovernmental bodies.
• Interacting with oversight bodies on matters under the Division's purview.
• Ensuring high standards of output and compliance with relevant mandates.
• Undertaking administrative tasks necessary for the Division's functioning, including budget preparation and performance monitoring.
• Overseeing recruitment, management, and evaluation of staff, ensuring geographical and gender balance. 1
• Representing the organization at international meetings and maintaining productive relations with counterparts in the host country.

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 United Nations rules and regulations effectively. The ideal candidate will show a commitment to professional excellence, accountability, and client orientation, with a strong focus on leadership and decision-making capabilities. The position requires a proactive approach to developing strategies and resolving conflicts, as well as a commitment to gender balance and diversity 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 administrative areas is essential. Experience in leading significant change management initiatives and representing organizations in intergovernmental bodies is desirable. Previous senior positions within the United Nations system or similar international organizations are 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 considered desirable, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level II in all language skills.

Additional Notes:
This position is temporarily available for a period of three (3) months, with the possibility of extension. It may be limited to internal candidates who have been recruited through a competitive examination or selection process. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. The organization does not charge any fees during the recruitment process and provides reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities upon request.