Special Assistant to Executive Director

Job Posting Organization:
UN Women was established in July 2010 as part of the UN reform agenda to enhance the impact of gender equality and women's empowerment initiatives. The organization merges the resources and mandates of four previously distinct parts of the UN system that focused on gender issues. UN Women operates globally, advocating for the elimination of discrimination against women and girls, empowering women, and achieving gender equality as partners and beneficiaries of development, human rights, humanitarian action, and peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security. The organization is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment, employing individuals regardless of race, religion, gender identity, or other factors, and has a zero-tolerance policy on misconduct.

Job Overview:
The Special Assistant to the director" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Executive Director plays a crucial role in supporting the Executive Director and the Deputy Executive Directors in their functions. This position involves providing high-quality advisory services on strategic priorities, coordinating efforts across various divisions and stakeholders, and leading special corporate initiatives. The Special Assistant is expected to manage information and materials related to the Executive Director's priorities, support corporate innovations, and analyze opportunities for policy proposals. The role also includes advocacy and representation to further UN Women’s agenda globally, maintaining networks with various stakeholders, and providing strategic advice on partnerships related to women's rights and gender equality. The incumbent will facilitate communication between the Executive Director and relevant stakeholders, manage correspondence, and oversee administrative functions within the Executive Director's office.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Special Assistant include advising on and assisting in the elaboration of the Executive Director’s strategic priorities, providing coordination across internal and external divisions, leading special corporate initiatives, and reviewing and preparing information for the Executive Director. The role also involves providing policy and advisory services, supporting management and corporate strategic issues, identifying operational priorities, analyzing risks, and preparing policy proposals. The Special Assistant will liaise with Member States, NGOs, and civil society to support the Executive Director’s public appearances and activities, maintain partnerships, and provide strategic and technical advice. Additionally, the incumbent will oversee administrative functions, facilitate communication, manage correspondence, and ensure effective information flow within the Executive Director's office.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or equivalent in gender studies, social sciences, public administration, business administration, or a related field. Alternatively, a first-level university degree combined with two additional years of qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of the advanced degree. The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in international development, particularly in gender equality and women's rights. Experience in policy and programmatic work in gender equality, advisory positions, and management of complex units is essential. Familiarity with the UN System at both country and headquarters levels is highly desirable, along with experience in senior-level front office roles.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or equivalent in relevant fields such as gender studies, social sciences, public administration, or business administration. A first-level university degree may be accepted in combination with additional qualifying experience, demonstrating the candidate's capability to perform the role effectively.

Experience:
The role demands a minimum of 10 years of progressively responsible professional experience in international development, with a strong focus on gender equality and women's rights. Candidates should have substantial experience in policy and programmatic work related to gender equality, advisory roles, and managing complex situations. Experience within the UN System, both at the country level and in headquarters, is highly desirable, as is experience in senior-level positions within a front office setting.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of another official UN language, such as French, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, or Spanish, is considered desirable and may enhance a candidate's profile.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and may involve supervisory responsibilities, leading a team of four direct reports and potentially overseeing consultants and interns. UN Women emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and has a zero-tolerance policy for misconduct. Candidates will undergo rigorous reference and background checks, including verification of academic credentials and employment history. It is crucial for applicants to complete all sections of the application form to avoid disqualification from the recruitment process.