Director of Strategic Planning and Communications

Job Posting Organization:
The position is located within the Strategic Planning and Communications Service (SPCS) of the Office of the Under-Secretary-General of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) of the United Nations. The organization focuses on promoting sustainable development and addressing global economic and social issues. It operates in various countries worldwide, aiming to enhance international cooperation and policy coherence in these areas.

Job Overview:
The Director of Strategic Planning and Communications is responsible for leading the SPCS, which involves formulating policies and strategies related to thought leadership, strategic planning, communications, and ICT governance. The incumbent will coordinate the Department's strategic priorities and ensure effective collaboration among various divisions to address emerging challenges. This role requires a strong focus on analytical work, overseeing the preparation of publications and policy briefs, and ensuring alignment with the Department’s vision and goals. The Director will also manage the Department's strategic communications plan and oversee the implementation of the ICT strategy, ensuring compliance with relevant policies. The position demands a proactive approach to leadership, fostering teamwork, and representing the Department in various internal and external meetings.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will support senior management in defining strategic priorities, lead the work programme of the SPCS, and coordinate efforts across different work units. Responsibilities include providing substantive reviews of drafts, strengthening collaboration among DESA Divisions, promoting policy coherence, overseeing the preparation of annual plans and performance reports, and ensuring the quality of publications. The Director will also manage programmatic and administrative tasks, including budget preparation, staff recruitment, and performance evaluations. Additionally, the role involves organizing meetings and seminars on economic and social issues and representing the Service at various conferences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a deep understanding of social and economic issues related to sustainable development. They should demonstrate the ability to produce high-quality reports and papers, apply UN regulations effectively, and show a commitment to professional excellence. Strong communication skills, accountability, and leadership qualities are essential, as the role requires managing diverse teams and fostering collaboration across organizational boundaries.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in economics, social sciences, sustainable development, or a related field is required. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying work experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree.

Experience:
A minimum of fifteen years of progressively responsible experience in sustainable development research and policy analysis in an international context is required. Candidates should have at least five years of experience in strategic planning within a global sustainable development framework, along with experience in managing complex programs and diverse teams. Experience in producing publications and developing communication materials in the development field is also necessary.

Languages:
English is the required working language for this position, with a minimum proficiency level of UN Level III in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. French is also a working language of the United Nations, but no additional languages are specified as desirable for this role.

Additional Notes:
The position is subject to the authority of the Secretary-General and may require staff to move periodically to different functions or duty stations. The United Nations is committed to achieving gender balance and encourages female candidates to apply. Staff members are required to submit a financial disclosure statement upon appointment and annually thereafter. The recruitment process does not involve any fees, and the organization is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for applicants with disabilities.